Travel Tech Q&A: WatchGuard Technologies' Scott Robertson
WatchGuard Technologies APAC vice president, Channels and Alliances, Scott Robertson, flies frequently around the Asia-Pacific region to meet with partners and attend meetings, and also takes regular trips to WatchGuard's head office in the US. He shares his travel tips with us.
Scott Robertson
(Credit: WatchGuard Technologies)
WatchGuard Technologies provides business security products including wired and wireless unified threat management appliances, as well as messaging, content security and SSL VPN remote access products. It backs up these products with its LiveSecurity service, which provides support, maintenance and education.
What tech do you travel with and why?
I don't ever travel without the three i's — iPhone, iPad, iPod — along with my laptop and my Bose noise-cancelling head phones ... a must for long flights!
What's your favourite phone app for travelling and why?
For business, it would have to be Google maps. I find it really useful when I'm in foreign cities and have to get to meetings. I can work out whether I can walk or need to get a cab. I also really like Shazaam, particularly for those moments when you hear a song in a coffee shop that you don't know the name of but want to download.
Personal travel advice/tip?
When checking out of your hotel, use the local currency to pay the bill or part of it. This way you're not left with notes and coins when you get home that you may not use for months or even longer.
How do you deal with jet lag?
I hit the gym as quickly as possible and try to maintain a good exercise routine. This usually helps to reset the body clock.
What was your biggest travel disaster?
Probably a bomb scare many years ago, which required us to reroute on the way to Fiji. I was quite young at the time so did not appreciate the seriousness of the situation, and in fact thought it very exciting to walk down the aisles singing out "bomb scare". This would be received somewhat differently in today's world. My parents on the other hand found the experience much less humorous!
Is there one thing you must do before you leave home?
Apart from the obvious — check that I have my passport, the relevant currency and required visas — probably set my Foxtel iQ!
What is your dream travel tech to have on planes/in airports/at hotels?
It would have to be power over wireless. This would help in those situations where you can't find a power outlet but they have wireless. This would also reduce the need for adapters.
Favourite destination city to work/visit & why?
Bora Bora — although no one seems to believe me that there is business to be won there! On a serious note, probably Singapore, as it has great connectivity, our exchange rate is still strong and it is a modern city yet still has a broad range of cultural influences.
Which airport would you prefer to be stranded at and why?
Despite being built many years ago, Changi airport is still very modern and has much to keep you entertained. The new Terminal 5 at Heathrow is also quite impressive, with good lounges and plenty to do.