My holiday: Stephen K. Amos

Comedian Stephen K. Amos.

What was your greatest holiday?

The one I took to New York before I became a comedian. I went with my younger brother and we had a total blast drinking bottomless margaritas and playing Cagney and Lacey on those cool metal fire-escapes. It was so magical, being my first time, it felt I was on the set of every American sitcom, movie or drama ever made. The people were friendly, the service was impeccable and I really did have a nice day.

And the worst?

My friend told me that we were staying in a villa in the mountains of Spain. We arrived in the Costa del Sol, surrounded by Ye Olde English pubs and fish and chip shops. It was my idea of hell. I struggled to look for Spanish culture and the nearest I got was an English breakfast where the sausage was replaced with a chorizo. I also nearly saw a fight but the only bulls in sight were knuckle-headed lads on a stag do. I left early.

If we bump into you on holiday, what are you most likely to be doing?

These days, relaxing by a pool under the shade with a very good book and my headphones in my ears. Cocktail in hand, optional.

If we could teleport you to one place in New Zealand for a week-long holiday, where would it be?

I have a very dear friend from Picton and we haven't seen each other for a while. I'd probably go there, and from there we would find the most beautiful and stunning setting further down the South Island to reminisce about the good old days.

How about for a dream holiday internationally?

There is something quite romantic about finding a remote hideaway with a tropical forest and golden sandy beaches that is unspoiled by modern technology. I did find a place like that in Thailand, but I won't say where it was; that's my little secret.

What's the dumbest thing you've ever done when travelling?

I fell asleep on a beach. The tide had come in and my bottom half was immersed in the sea with my phone, wallet and passport in my soaking wet pocket.

Complete this sentence: I can't travel without ...

good company. For me, it's always better to share the experience.

What's the best travel tip you've been given?

Get off the beaten track and keep an emergency credit card safely hidden.

What was the most memorable meal you've had while travelling?

It has to be during a walk on a remote island in Thailand, where we stumbled upon a wedding. We were invited to drink, eat, dance and celebrate with the bride and groom. Without doubt the best home-cooked Thai feast ever. Plus an amazing memory.

What's the best thing you've brought home?

Too countless to recall but my living room is full of arts and crafts I've seen made by hand.

Favourite airport to land at?

Probably up there is the Seychelles Airport because it's literally on the beach. Possibly not on for the faint-hearted, but it is truly an amazing sight as you come in to land. I also recall flying into the "windy city" of Wellington. I now understand why it's called that, because it took a lot of skill to land. It was the first time I've ever been on an aeroplane where the pilot has received a round of applause after landing.

What's the next trip you've got planned?

I'm heading to Tasmania, a place I've never been to before and which is, by all accounts, stunning.

Stephen K. Amos brings his show The Laughter Master to Auckland, Christchurch, Tauranga, New Plymouth and Wellington as part of the 2016 New Zealand International Comedy Festival until May 15. For details, go to comedyfestival.co.nz