Frequent Flyer profile: Andrew Mamontis, Kaspersky Lab

Andrew Mamonitis is the Managing Director, Australia and New Zealand for Kaspersky Lab, one of the world's leading computer security companies. Based in Melbourne, he travels 50 - 60 days a year.

What city do you most often visit for business?

It’s definitely Hong Kong, on average I’d visit around 4 times per year. Hong Kong is where our regional APAC office is based which becomes the hub for many of our management meetings, corporate training sessions and events.

What's the one thing you do on every trip?

^{Above: Nathan Road, Kowloon, home to Andrew's favourite tailor}

I always visit my favorite tailor in Hong Kong - L & K Tailors in Kowloon. Being someone who generally doesn’t enjoy the rigors of trying on clothes for size, I love the fact that I can have my tailor make a suit or shirts without having to try on multiple garments. One suit and a few shirts are my standard fare.

On any business trip, what do you like to do in your spare time?

I always try to make time to familiarise myself with the city and its heritage. I like to search out where the locals hang, which often leads to some hidden gems and a more authentic experience. Lan Kwai Fong is a particularly great place to go for drinks!

The Lan Kwai Fong district -- the place to be in Hong Kong
Jon Parise

What’s your favourite city to travel to?

London, I love its vibe, attitude and the diversity of experiences that come with a great melting pot of people and cultures.

Tell us about your best overseas dining experience.

Paradise Seafood Restaurant in Hong Kong. I have been there on a few occasions and it never fails to impress! It’s not the most glamorous restaurant I’ve visited; it’s actually pretty basic and unassuming. However, the food is always fresh and enjoyed in a vibrant environment.

My last visit was the most memorable as I enjoyed a sailing trip on the harbor on a perfect day. Once we docked, we sat for a fresh seafood lunch, with some top notch wine and great company.

What are some essential carry-on items you’d never leave home without?

My iPad, laptop, noise cancelling headphones and my trusty universal power adapter.

How do you typically spend your in-flight time?

I generally begin with great intentions and get some work in early on the laptop. However, before too long the attention span begins to wane and I soon find my-self sitting through an in-flight movie marathon!

How do you beat jetlag?

For long haul flights which involve two legs or more, I always try to adjust to the local time by battling sleep. I also usually find dragging myself into the gym to get the blood pumping also helps blow out any cobwebs from a long trip.

Being a poor sleeper on flights, I generally try to stick to daytime flights for single leg trips such as Hong Kong or Singapore. I arrive much fresher having not missed out on a good night’s sleep on the way over.

What are the first things you do on a business trip after settling into your hotel?

I have a bad habit of spreading my clothes, belongings and any other possessions all over the room within a few minutes of checking in. Not fun when it comes time to pack and check out!

What do you like most about travelling, even though it’s for work?

Being fortunate enough to see other cultures and gain a different perspective on the world.

What’s your best travel advice?

Explore and appreciate the diversity of cultures and people because they are what make the world’s great cities come alive.

^{Australian Business Traveller's ‘Frequent Flyer’ interview profiles businesspeople who regularly travel within Australia and overseas and lets them share their favourite destinations, hotels, activities and tips with the rest of the business traveller community. If you're interested in being interviewed, please email [email protected].}

danwarne