Sally’s work as a freelance food and travel writer entices her away from her desk in Sydney, Australia for many weeks each year, and often has her dining far too well in Australia and overseas. A freelance food and travel writer whose work has been published in most major magazines and newspapers in Australia as well as some overseas, she describes herself simply as a ‘travel junkie who writes to support her habit.” Sally currently contributes restaurant reviews and dining pages to Travel & Living, the quarterly Citibank platinum cardholder magazine and has co-authored a number of books with her husband, the award-winning photographer Gordon Hammond, including the Australian Regional Food Guide, Weird & Wacky, Just Enough French and most recently, Pardon My French! She was until recently secretary on the committee of the Australian Society of Travel Writers.

Most memorable, life-altering trip: “This was definitely a month-long 4WD trip to Tibet. The scenery, the dangerous roads, but most importantly the people made it a standout trip and taught me more about human courage and determination than anything else.”

Emerging hot-spot prediction: “Southern Italy (I hope). It has history, magnificent scenery, good food and warm welcomes. All you need.”

Favorite destination for food: “It’s a cliché, but I have to say France. I have never had a bad meal there and we often eat in tiny establishments deep in the country, not just Michelin-starred restaurants.”

Most memorable meal: “A tiny inn high up in the village of Castelmezzano in Basilicata (think of it as the instep of the ‘boot’ of Italy). We were unannounced and late for lunch, yet without asking, the cook brought our bruschetta topped with a drizzle of olive oil and slices of fresh truffle. I knew then the meal would be sensational, and it was.”

All-time favorite hotel: “I have been lucky enough to stay in some wonderful hotels, but I did really enjoy the Alvear Palace Hotel in Buenos Aires a few years ago. I think the hotel’s L’Orangerie serves the best breakfast anywhere and we also enjoyed a magnificent meal at their hotel restaurant.”

Favorite travel quote: “Tourism is not only swimming, sightseeing, monuments and towns. It is also coming into contact with people and cultures different from our own, understanding and, perhaps, loving each other.” (Giuseppe Berto, 1914-1978)