Joss Stone talks about her favourite hotel, in Jamaica, and why she travels in slippers

Singer-songwriter Joss Stone checks into our travel Q&A

This week singer-songwriter Joss Stone checks into our travel Q&A.

She talks about her best and worst touring memories, her favourite place in the UK, her dream destination – and more. 

EARLIEST HOLIDAY MEMORY?

Going to the New Forest with my mum. We went on a lovely picnic and I remember riding a horse. I would swim in the sea as a kid until my lips were blue.

FIRST TRIP ABROAD?

A family holiday in Turkey aged 12. I spent most of the time at the hotel poolside, but Mum hired a car so we also got to do the odd excursion.

FAVOURITE TOURING MEMORY?

Performing live in front of 40 people at a search and rescue centre in Antarctica — an unforgettable gig.

DID YOU SEE MUCH OF ANTARCTICA?

Yes, lots of humpback and killer whales, as well as penguins. I was there in December, which is their summertime, but it was still pretty nippy.

WORST TOURING MEMORY?

A tour bus once broke down in Albuquerque, New Mexico. But a balloon festival was happening. It ticked the wow box.

BEST HOTEL?

Staying in the Strawberry Hill resort, high in Jamaica’s Blue Mountains, was the most extraordinary experience. They were so welcoming, too.

HOTEL FROM HELL?

I once stayed at a hotel in the Middle East where the loo in my room was broken — I had to walk down the corridor to use a guest bathroom.

TOP TRAVEL TIP?

Travel in slippers — they’re so comfortable. I get a cab to the airport and check-in wearing them. The only downside is if it’s raining at the other end.

Extraordinary: Joss said her favourite hotel is the Strawberry Hill resort, high in Jamaica’s Blue Mountains

MUST-HAVE TRAVEL ACCESSORY?

Lip balm.

HOW HAS COVID AFFECTED YOUR PLANS?

I postponed a tour but still managed to travel around a bit, and am in America right now — Covid just made everything harder.

FAVOURITE PART OF THE UK?

I love Devon, where I grew up.

WHERE NEXT?

My delayed 2019 tour, from Vienna to Vegas, will happen sometime in the future.

DREAM DESTINATION?

I’d love to visit Madagascar for the incredible flora and fauna.

• Joss’s single Walk With Me is out now on S-Curve/BMG.