Simon Harris, TD
What’s your earliest holiday memory?
Going to Galway as a child with my parents and my grandparents. I have very fond memories of trips to the Aran Islands and the beautiful scenery.
What was your worst holiday?
I love getting away on breaks and whilst not wanting to jinx it, I’ve yet to have a bad holiday!
What was your best holiday?
I can’t decide between two holidays. In 2005 I went on a trip to Egypt with some friends. It was an incredible cultural experience. We went cruising on the Nile, we visited the Valley of the Kings and went to historic temples. The holiday brought to life so much of the history you learn in school.
The other holiday was a trip to Sorrento, Italy last August with my girlfriend. We had an amazing week. Everything from the weather, to the food and the tours was just perfect.
If budget or work were not a restriction, what would be your dream holiday?
I would really like to visit China. A bit like my trip to Egypt, I’m eager to experience different cultures and from different perspectives. China is becoming a major player in our world yet I find we know so little about it. I would like to see the country first hand and, of course, sample the sights and food.
If you had your pick, who would you bring on holiday with you?
Apart from the obvious, I’d bring Taoiseach Enda Kenny. Based on his record, he’d have me cycling, climbing and working out every day, so I’d come back 10 times fitter than when I Ieft!
What’s your favourite place in Ireland?
I’m a proud Wicklow man and my home county has everything going for it. It’s on Dublin’s doorstep but has its own rich culture and heritage. It offers a range of great activities and can provide everything from mountains to coastlines and historic sites like Glendalough.
Your recommended holiday reading?
For starters a guidebook, as I never go on holidays without one. I like to bring one big fiction doorstopper, like the brilliant Skippy Diesby Paul Murray. I also like to bring one big non-fiction book on a subject outside my daily concerns like Atlanticby Simon Winchester.
Where will you go to next?
I have been busy adjusting to my new role so I have yet to finalise holiday plans but, provisionally, I am hoping to go to Portugal at some stage during the summer. I’m already looking forward to the break after an intense election campaign.
- Simon Harris is a Fine Gael TD for Wicklow
- In conversation with GENEVIEVE CARBERY