My Perfect Day - Gabriella Somerville

Founder and Managing Director of ConnectJets Gabriella Somerville gives U the inside scoop on her favourite hangouts...

How do you start your day?

Always start with a black tea, porridge, fruit and a few stretches - followed by a leisurely walk to the office. Occasionally I will stop off at Aubaine in Dover Street, take a seat outside and watch the world go by with a fruit and yogurt platter, or if it’s a chilly day, then 45 Jermyn Street for a croissant and coffee!

Leisurely lunch go to?

Delfino on Mount Street – always a great buzz and love the waiters and salads! If I am on the hoof, then it is Mount Street Deli where there is no limit to their culinary delights.

Favourite way to pass the time in London?

Walking; I never tire of London, I have taken to studying rooftops - there is a whole new London when you look up! If my day allows, I take a stroll across Green Park or stride over Hungerford Bridge en route home and meander down South Bank. In the summer it is heaving with people but it always gives me a boost just before my long commute…

Favourite London landmarks, and why?

St Pauls - it is such a significant London landmark and built by the wonderful architect Sir Christopher Wren. Having survived the blitz the Cathedral is a monument to this country and she stands out so beautifully on the London skyline. During the winter months I occasionally pop in for evensong – it is quite beautiful and calming for the frantic entrepreneur. Trafalgar Square has this insane buzz, street artists, homeless art and yoga all taking place at the same time – I never fail to walk through Trafalgar Square and smile - London at its best: multicultural and fully embracing of all...

Tipple of choice and favourite cocktail hangout?

Mojito or Martini cocktail, I think Penny Hill Park serve the best Mojito but when in London I like go to the Connaught Bar where the award winning Agostino Perrone is the master mixologist. I also rather like a glass or two of Billecart Salmon Champagne, especially during the sultry months of summer - it is my tipple of choice.

Favourite dining destinations, and why?

Scott’s, The Square along with Wilton's in Jermyn Street: great food, ambience and service. I also love J. Sheekey in St Martin's Court: wonderful wine list and great seafood with good old fashioned service.

Final stop for a nightcap, and why?

I often stay at the RAF Club during the week and love having a final nightcap in the downstairs bar (The Running Horse Tavern). It is a haven of eclectic individuals sharing great exploits of days gone by and that mixed with a wee dram of brandy is the perfect nightcap.

Rest hangover remedy?

St Johns wort or at the weekend a Full English breakfast with all the trimmings…and a Virgin Bloody Mary!

Where next on your travels?

With a small office on the outskirts of Cannes I need no further excuse than to board a flight and enjoy the French Riviera at its best. I love Marc Chagall and Picasso, so I indulge myself in the summer art scene to satisfy my soul. For dinner I love the atmosphere of La Petite Maison in Central Nice and Paloma Beach in Saint Jean Cap Ferrat.

Gabriella Somerville is the founder and managing director of ConnectJets with over 20 years experience in commercial and business aviation (having worked for British Airways, Virgin Atlantic, VistaJet & Bombardier). ConnectJets is Gabriella's platform for presenting the private jet model to a wider audience, by simplifying the process and delivering a competitive and client-focused service. Gabriella is also a mentor for Virgin Unite program and is involved in mentoring new start ups and currently sits on the advisory board of EU-WINN.

Ideal For

Being in the know


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