Sumi is a born traveller with a penchant for adventure and absorbing new cultures. The Managing Director of Saffron Island Destination Management, Sumi is an ardent promoter of Sri Lanka as the ultimate travel destination.

Why do you love travel?

To experience different cultures and to enhance my knowledge as it relates to my work. I also firmly believe that humans were not meant to live in one place but are supposed to broaden their knowledge by travelling.

Your favourite travel destination and why?

Slovenia. It is unspoiled by commercial tourism and the people are genuinely friendly and warm. The country has breathtaking landscapes.

What do you need for a perfect holiday?

Camera, books, comfortable shoes, my partner and an open mind without any preconceived idea about the place I am holidaying in because that would spoil the fun and adventure.

In which country have you felt most at home?

Germany and France and that could be because I speak the languages of those countries.

Most unusual souvenir you have brought home?

A lamp shade made out of pigs’ intestines!

Favourite holiday discovery?

Getting lost in the city of  Porto in Portugal and coming across this wonderful little hotel with stunning views of the azure blue ocean below.

Worst holiday or travel experience?

Losing my baggage on a trip to Australia. Got it back only the day before flying back.

Best piece of travel advice?

Read in advance about the place you are visiting and travel with an open mind as travel is an adventure.

Your top five travel destinations?

Slovenia, Vietnam, Italy, South Africa and Indonesia.

What has travel taught you?

To appreciate the world and its amazing people.

What is the country you will never go back to and why?

Yemen because that’s one place which made me feel really unsafe.

Which country did you taste the best ever cuisine?

Portugal.

Next travel destination?

Tibet.

By Tina Edward Gunawardhana