It can't be too hard to find a ship if you just follow the riverbank, can it? Not if you're walking beside the wrong river, says Fiona Dalton, MD of Uniworld Boutique River Cruise Collection. She answers our Traveller Q&A.;

First, business or economy?

I mainly fly business class for long-haul travel, for which I feel very fortunate. My biggest priority is a flat bed, but if it's a daytime flight to Asia, then I'm happy to fly premium economy. I only fly economy in Australia, as we are blessed with the best economy service in the world.

Most frequented destination?

Over the past 10 years, it was London, Los Angeles, Rome, Singapore, New Zealand and Honolulu. Now Paris, Frankfurt and Geneva may emerge as the new winners, and they are all beautiful cities.

Favourite airport?

I love Dubai for its unbeatable facilities and efficiency.

If I ran my own airline I would…

At the departure gate, I would make all passengers test whether their hand luggage really was the right size. It's a big problem on domestic flights.

Where would you go with a million air miles?

Europe, of course. I love the diversity, history and cultures.

Best trip ever?

Last year, I was fortunate to sail on the SS Catherine in the south of France from Lyon to Avignon, and it was one of my best trips ever. Superlative service, divine landscapes and a sumptuous on-board experience makes for a happy traveller.

Worst place you've been lost?

I made a rookie error in Lyon and got lost walking along the river back to our ship. I figured it couldn't be too hard to find since she is 135 metres long, but after a few hours with no progress, I realised I'd been walking along the wrong river. I had forgotten that Lyon is at the confluence of the Rhône and the Saône rivers.

Most memorable overseas dining?

Definitely La Pergola in Rome. Its location in the hills overlooking Rome is out of this world, and the degustation menu was a once-in-a-lifetime experience. La Pergola is one of only a few restaurants in Italy with three Michelin stars and the whole experience was unforgettable.

In the suitcase?

Too much … learning to pack light was my New Year's resolution.

First thing you do in a new city?

I try to clear the cobwebs by going for a swim.

How do you make the most of a spare afternoon in a strange city?

I like to explore the museums and galleries and walk a lot to soak up the atmosphere.

Cure for jetlag?

The minute we depart Sydney, I set my watch in the time zone of my destination. It works without fail.

Other travel tips?

Take echinacea the week before you travel to boost your immune system, and drink twice as much water on the flight as you think you need.

What technology do you use?

Apple everything.

Best overseas purchase?

Silk scarves from the south of France. They are beautiful quality; I treasure them.

Best travel tale?

Many years ago, I took a taxi from Lumpini Park in Bangkok back to my hotel. I gave the driver the address, but he misunderstood and we drove an extra 71 blocks, or about 10 kilometres, before I could convince him we had a problem. By then, I was quite traumatised because I thought I was being kidnapped. I laugh about it now. He was a very kind man trying to do his job, but the language barrier was an issue.

Best thing about travelling?

I love that travelling can bring such positive experiences to people's lives. It helps create unity and solidarity, and that's something we certainly need plenty of in the world right now.

Top travel gripe?

People who recline their seat without any thought for those behind. It's just good manners to check first if doing so will add to their discomfort, isn't it?

lifeandleisure@afr.com.au