Checking in: BBC Presenter Julia Bradbury on South Africa and why she cherishes flip-flops

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Star quality: Presenter Julia Bradbury likes a holiday read

When she's not presenting on Countryfile, Julia Bradbury heads for South Africa, where she likes to take a walk on the wild side...

Favourite destination?

South Africa. I have friends and family there and have been visiting for 20 years. Its a magical country. Youve got the beach life of Cape Town, theDrakensberg Mountains and all the game parks outside Joburg and Port Elizabeth.

The best thing to do there?

Last time, I enjoyed a walking safari in Kruger National Park. Its such a different experience because you become part of the landscape and wildlife, meaning that potentially you could become prey! Also driving along the scenic Garden Route is a must.

Where do you stay?

With friends and family, but if I have to stay in a hotel I pick the Twelve Apostles, outside Cape Town. A beautiful setting by the ocean and wonderful service.

Wild times: Julia enjoys visiting Kruger National Park where 'you become part of the landscape a! nd wildl ife'

Where for dinner?

Caveau Wine Bar and Deli in Heritage Square, Cape Town.

Ideal travel companion?

One of the great things about travelling so much for work is having people organise everything for you. So, if Im travelling for pleasure, I hopeIm accompanied by someone who likes organising, leaving me nothing to do but pack.

More...

• Checking in: Arlene Philips on Venice
• Checking in: Gadget girl Suzi Perry on South Africa
• More famous travel in our Celebrity section

Where do you feel most at home?

Rutland, where I grew up.

Earliest travel memory?

Family holidays in Crieff, Scotland, where we still go as a family, or an early trip to Greece to visit my grandmother.

What do you always take?

Flip-flops because theyre brilliant on the beach and act as fantastic emergency slippers, if you encounter a dodgy floor.

Your idea of a good holiday read?

I read about three books at a ! t ime. Currently, Id pack Stieg Larssons The Girl Who Kicked The Hornets Nest, The Fry Chronicles and Sebastian Faulkss A Week In December.

Julia Bradbury's Canal Walks is published by Frances Lincoln, 9.99.