Anita Notaro, author.
What's your earliest holiday memory?
We didn't really go on holidays when I was a child - there were four of us and money was tight - so I remember day trips to the Silver Strand in Wicklow. I remember sunny days, egg sandwiches, sand in everything and always crying when it was time to go home.
What was your worst holiday?
My worst holiday was in the Canary Islands. I just don't get them. I went twice, on winter breaks; the skies were grey, everyone seemed to be wearing Union Jack shorts and there were signs everywhere for full English breakfasts. I'm sure there are beautiful places there, but I never found them. I would actively try not to go back.
What was your best holiday?
In winter 2000 I went to the spice island of Zanzibar, off the coast of east Africa, with my husband, Gerry. It's a magical place. We stayed in a cottage on the beach. Zanzibar was like nowhere else I've ever been; it was primitive and beautiful. Any time I want to remember Zanzibar I smell a jar of cloves, and I'm back.
If budget or work was no restriction, what would be your dream holiday?
I would go back to Oman, in the Middle East. I found it the most amazing country, as far removed from Dubai as you could imagine. It is totally unspoilt. The people are exceptionally friendly, it's a Muslim country, they have great respect for women, there's no crime.
If you had your pick, who would you bring on holiday with you?
I'd bring my husband, Gerry, and my best friend, Dearbhla. They are great organisers. My husband says I lose my brain when I go on holidays. I don't even bring cash.
Favourite place in Ireland?
Without a doubt, Brittas Bay, in Co Wicklow. It has nothing going for it except the most amazing beach and one pub. I love long walks on the beach, so much so that we've bought a cottage there to renovate.
What book would you recommend to read on holiday?
It's been a bumper year for Irish fiction, I think people should take an Irish author with them. There's great choice from the Irish Book Awards winners.
Where will you spend your next holiday?
I'll be going to Nerja, in Spain. My friend Frank has a house there, and he lets me use it.
In conversation with Fiona Gartland
Anita Notaro recently won the Galaxy Irish Popular Fiction Book of the Year prize