James Haskell: ‘I’ve been to Las Vegas 13 times’

I’m partial to a staycation and I’m a big fan of Cornwall

The coastline is stunning and because Chloe’s parents live down there, in Talland Bay, we often go to chill out. I’m a member of Soho House, and Soho Farmhouse isn’t too far from where we live, so we like to do a getaway there. They have a restaurant called Pen Yen, where we’ll eat our entire body weight in sushi. 

The worst thing about travelling is the automated systems at airports

I get so annoyed at having to check in using a machine. You have to go there, put your label on your bag and carry it to the carousel, but then someone is still there checking your passport… what’s the point? They’ve actually made the process longer and put lots of people out of jobs.

There’s plenty left on my travel bucket list

I would like to return to Mykonos and Dubai, and I would love to go to Russia and China one day. I once did a fly-drive around the West Coast of America for two weeks and I’d like to do that with Chloe – we’re keen to visit Napa Valley, as we love our wine. 

My most rock and roll moment?

It was when I played an England game in Australia and Qantas upgraded us to first class.

Interview by Kirsty Nutkins

What a Flanker by James Haskell is out now (HarperNonFiction, £20)