FAVOURITE DESTINATION VISITED AS AN ATHLETE?

It would have to be Barcelona. I won my gold medal there and every time I return I feel as though I'm back in 1992.

It's a great city and you can walk everywhere. We're returning this month and are going to do a bike tour. It's buzzy with a great mix of beach and culture.

FAVOURITE DESTINATION VISITED IN YOUR OWN TIME?

The Maldives for the snorkelling and scuba diving. The boys spent most of their time in the water and it was great not to have to wear shoes for 10 days.

We also love South Africa for a sense of adventure and excitement. I took the boys and we drove from Stellenbosch along the Garden Route.

WHAT SORT OF TRAVELLER ARE YOU?

Definitely the adventurous type. I get excited, particularly when I know there's going to be an adrenalin element to my holiday.

I live for my travel. As a family we have many happy memories; from camping in Devon to visiting lovely spots around the world and staying in top hotels.

WHAT DO YOU LIKE TO DO ON HOLIDAY?

Just being able to spend quality time with my husband and three sons does it for me. Any holiday that combines relaxation, adventure and a mix of interesting places is the ideal.

Last year on a cruise we visited Nice, Florence, Pisa and Naples and getting that eclectic mix of some of the world's most beautiful cities was hands down, a holiday highlight for me.

HOW ACTIVE ARE YOU WHEN YOU GO AWAY?

I always plan my days so I can exercise, whether that be a session in the gym or going for a 30-minute run I sailed with Royal Caribbean International recently to launch Royal Caribbean Runners. The cruise company has joined forces with Sport England and Run England to promote a series of beginner running groups during this Olympic year.

groups during this Olympic year. It's a great programme aimed at getting people fit and healthy in their day-to-day lives.

You can join if you take a cruise on the Southamptonbased Independence of the Seas, or visit the website to find your nearest running group if you live in London or the South East.

There's a 12-week programme and it's for all levels. You don't have to be a fitness fanatic.

FAVOURITE UK HOLIDAY SPOT?

Surfing in Croyde, Devon.

For years as a child I'd escape to the coast with my family every summer and now with the boys, we've started our own tradition.

YOUR NEXT THREE TRIPS? YOUR NEXT THREE TRIPS?

Mexico where I'll be attending a conference, Barcelona and then the Caribbean on Royal Caribbean's Allure of the Seas.

IDEAL TRAVEL COMPANIONS? IDEAL TRAVEL COMPANIONS?

Other than family it would be Linford Christie, Colin Jackson and Denise Lewis so we can have a proper catch-up.

Linford is argumentative, so great for a discussion, and Colin is cheeky. He liked to hide in wardrobes and jump out. I'd need another girl along to help me handle those two.

HOW MUCH DO YOU MISS COMPETING?

Part of me would love to compete again, but the Games are going to be so exciting.

We have tremendous athletes and they are going to make us proud.

For more information and to find running groups visit www.royalcaribbean.co.uk/runners

Sally was talking to DUNCAN CRAIG