Eric Villency is more than just a pretty face. A former model and a real estate analyst, he's now the president of Maurice Villency. This family owned furniture company, founded in 1932, is known for its sleek contemporary lines.Villency is now one of the youngest presidents in the industry, and takes a hands-on approach to the design. Recently the company has rolled out an updated version of the reclining chair, Pop Art inspired ottomans, and a stand-alone bar unit called Rhapsody.  Villency also hosts a show on the Fine Living Network called, 'I Design.'

What is the last place you visited, and where is the next place you're going?

The last place I visited was Milan, Italy. I am going to Hawaii next.

Where do you travel for design inspiration?

Tokyo and Milan are the most inspiring places for me.  The differences in their respective cultures from my own give a wonderful sense of perspective and you can find stimulation in each city's everyday life.

When you need to relax and get away from it all, where do you go?

Anywhere a Blackberry doesn't work!  But in reality, in the summer I go to Capri with friends.  For a quick get away: the Caribbean, Cap Juluca or low key at Pink Sands.

Most memorable experience on the road?

Having a monsoon wash out the roads in Guilin, China and being cut off from the world for three days.  To get back to the airport, I travelled by foot, half-submerged row boat and the back of a pick up truck.

How did you decorate your own apartment?

The design is contemporary: dark wenge floors, white furniture and many pieces of art that are special to me.  People are always surprised how warm a modern design can be.

What do you always pack when you travel?

A slim travel portfolio that keeps all my tickets and passport organized and some Power bars in case I am stuck in an airport with inedible food.

What is your favourite city for shopping and why?

Milan. There are no competing cultural experiences (museums, etc.) in the city to make you feel guilty that you aren't sight seeing. They have the most incredible window displays and where else could you find a better place for lunch afterwards?

What is the best bargain you've snapped up when travelling?

Nothing since the Euro was introduced. But previously I remember paying about half price for a Prada suit in Italy.

What is your favourite airline and why?

Singapore airlines.  Because it is the most consistent travel experience: the service is ALWAYS wonderful.

What is your favourite hotel and why?

That is a very hard question to answer. But I spend a lot of time at the L'Ermitage in Los Angeles: the quintessentially business hotel that makes you feel at home.  For pleasure: Cap Juluca, one of the best beaches in the world, great service and relaxation on tap.

You want to spoil somebody, which restaurant would you take them to and why?

In New York I would choose March.  It is extremely intimate, off the beaten path and has wonderful food and a timeless experience.

Are you a bargain hunter or an impulse buyer?

I am definitely an impulse shopper.  The second I walk in somewhere I know if something is leaving with me.

Click here to read Eric's address book.