We caught up with Oli Corkhill, the CEO of award-winning luxury ski company Leo Trippi, and co-founder of Viadi Group, a collection of luxury travel brands.
My car of choice
I drive a BMW X5 hybrid (45e M Sport) which is the perfect combination of practicality and performance. I always charge it at the office and can do most of my local miles all electric. I’m a big fan of the new Lotus models and could definitely be convinced to buy an Emira.
My favourite holiday destination
At the moment it’s Courchevel in France. There isn’t a better holiday for me than a ski trip. We took our son over the past two years to learn to ski and are already planning a trip there for next year. You have everything from incredible restaurants, great places to stay (we stayed at Grandes Alpes and Ultima on our recent visits) and then amazing skiing on your doorstep. There are more ski-in/ski-out options here than anywhere else.
My gadget I can’t live without
I’d love to say this wasn’t my iPhone but it probably is. It’d be great not to be so reliant on it but it’s just so ingrained with everyday life now that it’s hard to get rid of. There’s a minimalist ‘Light Phone’ that I have been looking at to use during holidays and downtime to try and reduce screen time.
My go to fashion brand
I am generally very casual although I like sneakers from Aurelian and clothes from Pal Zileri which I find fit exceptionally well. Main staples are Ralph Lauren, James Perse and then RM Williams denim. I really like Love Brand and Co swim shorts and Globe Trotter luggage too.
My airline of choice
I always fly British Airways, you have the most options out of Heathrow and good perks with the gold card. I’ve quickly got used to the first check-in/security and direct lounge access at Heathrow. Between the points and various upgrade/companion vouchers you can get some great deals if you book at the right time.
My favourite watch brand
I don’t have a favourite brand when it comes to watches but I wear a 1979 Rolex Submariner and an IWC Portofino Moonphase, both of which I love. If I had to buy another watch today I’d get something from Bremont.
My favourite restaurant
I’ve been lucky enough to eat in some amazing places and a few standouts over the years are Mikla in Istanbul, Indian Accent in Delhi and Ai Fiore in New York. Locally, I like the Wild Rabbit and The Ox Barn at Thyme which I go to semi-frequently and MO at Dormy House which was superb.
My guilty pleasure
Red wine. Favourites are Carménère which I was introduced to in Chile, Mavrud especially Terra Tangra from the Thrace region in Bulgaria and then big bold super-Tuscans.
My favourite way to give back
I believe impact-led, transformational travel is a brilliant way to give back. It’s not entirely selfless, for who doesn’t feel better when they know they’re making a positive contribution, especially whilst enjoying themselves on holiday?
I am currently planning a safari to South Africa with Explorations Company for my young family, and our ‘holiday’ will also mean us getting our hands dirty, essentially paying for the privilege, but ultimately funding vital conservation and anti-poaching units.
I hope to take them on many such trips, and to create a lasting legacy. Leaving a meaningful mark is at the core of transformational travel, something Exploration Company excels at and, in my view, is what makes it so special.
