‘A €300 tasting menu in Cape Town was a once-in-a-lifetime experience’

Are you a saver or a spender?

I consider myself to have a balance of both. However, I’m mostly a saver and I’ve always had the mindset to have enough saved for a rainy day.

Do you shop around for better value?

Yes. While I’m happy to spend the money to get high-quality items, I don’t like paying more for the same thing. For purchases such as insurance, I will always shop around and carry out research.

What's the point in being loyal to your insurer?

---

Ombudsman offers window into world of financial folly and misery

---

Is a mortgage top-up or a personal loan best option for home improvement finance?

---

What has been your most extravagant purchase and how much did it cost?

My most extravagant purchase was during a work trip in Cape Town. A few of us went to one of the top-25 restaurants in the world and ordered an 11-course tasting menu. It cost €300 per head, but I have to say it was an amazing once-in-a-lifetime experience.

What purchase have you made that you consider the best value for money?

Probably my car, an Opel Insignia. I’ve had it for four years and thankfully I have had no problems with it.

How did you prefer to shop during the Covid-19 restrictions – online or local?

I like both but I would always strive to shop local. For Christmas just gone, I organised gift hampers for the office and everything in them was locally sourced.

Do you haggle over prices?

When it comes to business, and having worked in sales, I have a lot of experience in negotiating, but personally, I don’t.

How has the Covid-19 crisis changed your spending habits?

The pandemic has changed my spending habits a lot. I haven’t bought much business attire as my meetings moved online, so my wardrobe changed to a more casual look. Nowadays, my spending goes towards DIY and household appliances.

Do you invest in shares?

No, I wouldn’t have much interest.

Cash or card?

Card – I love the convenience!

What was the last thing you bought and was it good value for money?

Without a doubt, my Barbour jacket. It was good value for money, great quality and it will last a lifetime.

Have you ever successfully saved up for a relatively big purchase?

I have always saved up when buying a new car, and when we were building our house we were able to put savings towards it.

Have you ever lost money?

No, I’ve been very lucky!

Are you a gambler and, if so, have you ever had a big win?

I’m not a gambler, but a few years back I did have a big win at the races – I bet a tenner each way and won €300.

Is money important to you?

Money is not my primary motivator and it never has been. It’s important, however, to have enough money to not have to worry, and I always want to have enough to support others where I can.

How much money do you have on you now?

Some loose change that probably amounts to about €3 – I use my card for everything!

In conversation with Tony Clayton-Lea