My Luxury Life: Donna Benton, CEO of The Entertainer

Dubai businesswoman launched her company 11 years ago with just Dh6,000, the brand now has 21 books in 11 countries. The Australian shares some of her favourite things.

Donna Benton, the woman behind The Entertainer. Rebecca Hobday
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If you could wake up anywhere else in the world tomorrow, where would it be?

The Maldives, I love it!

You’re sitting down to the perfect dinner. What are you eating, where are you dining and who is with you?

In our house in Phuket with my family and friends eating my favourite Thai food.

What is your favourite hotel? It would be unfair for me to say one as we deal with so many amazing hotels worldwide.

Where is the best service you have ever experienced? One of the best examples of exceptional service was at the Jumeirah Vittaveli Hotel, Maldives.

What is your dream luxury experience? Luxury to me is time – time with family, friends, and time to relax.

Which grooming product or treatment do you swear by? Moroccan hair oil as it is great for your hair in these weather conditions. Unfortunately, it’s not available here, as far as I know. Any spa treatment would make me happy.

Where are your favourite shops or shopping districts?

I do love shopping in Australia and also the States. My favourite go-to
shop here is BCBG MaxAzria.

Are you a collector? If so, what do you collect?

Currency from around the world. I have quite a lot now due to all of the travel I do, so if I fall on tough times I can cash it in.

If you could invest in the work of one artist or designer (in any field), who would you choose?

My husband already says I am a large investor in Louis Vuitton based on the number of handbags I have. Where and when were you happiest? My wedding day, and the day my daughter was born.

Do you have an essential gadget or piece of technology?

My BlackBerry!

What are you currently reading?

As I'm pregnant I'm reading a lighthearted but informative pregnancy guide called Up the Duff by Kaz Cooke.

In terms of quality or longevity of use, what has been your wisest purchase?

I have a Louis Vuitton wallet that I bought over 12 years ago. I still use it to this day.

In terms of your wardrobe, do you have a regular go-to designer?

BCBG MaxAzria, but I will generally go to larger stores such as Harvey Nichols as there is wider selection of brands to choose from under one roof.

What was your first luxury purchase?

My Louis Vuitton wallet!

What is your most treasured possession?

A stunning sapphire diamond ring I inherited from my grandmother. I wear it on special occasions.

What, in your opinion, is the most overrated luxury?

Boats!  They are so costly for what you get in return. There are only two really good days for a boat owner – the day you buy it and then the day you sell it.

The Entertainer 2013 books are out now; buy yours and register the Entertainer Member card included with every book before 12th March to be entered into a prize draw to win a deluxe room for a year at the Yas Viceroy Hotel, Abu Dhabi. Visit  www.theentertainerme.com for details

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