The hospitable Duaine Peiris who is on a mission to promote healthy eating via his restaurant Calorie Counter is a confirmed foodie. A staunch advocate of clean eating and regular exercise Duaine also loves to travel. This week Duaine lists his travel experiences.

Why do you love travel?

Travelling is one of the most exciting things I do. Whether it’s a business trip, a trip with friends or a holiday overseas, it excites me the same way. Every trip gives me new experiences and insight to life. I learn something new every time I travel. In most cases travel has shown me the way to lead, innovate and exercise my journey in life.

Your favourite travel destination and why?

I will have to name two because both places are the best places I've been to. Miami, USA and Hoi An, Vietnam.

What do you need for a perfect holiday?

A perfect holiday is a perfectly planned one for me. As in not timetables but places to see, new experiences and adventure. I usually sit and plan my trips well ahead. For example, my East Coast trip to the USA which covered New York, Niagara, Washington DC, Miami, Orlando and the Bahamas took about a year of research to find the best tours, best rates, fastest travel methods etc. Most of my travels are done with my wife and we are both very fond of travelling. We also have this crazy bunch of friends who travel with us most of the time as well so I guess a good set of friends can be a plus for a good vacation. The key to a perfect holiday is working to your time schedule, and not anyone else's timetable. So tour packages are off for me.

In which country have you felt most at home?

To feel at home you have to feel welcome. I felt most welcome in New Zealand. Having a lot of close friends made it even more special.

Most unusual souvenir you have brought home?

Well we always bring a fridge magnet from wherever we travel to, but the most unusual souvenir was a piece of stone from the Great Wall of China.

Worst holiday or travel experience?

Well I would have to say the time when my luggage arrived one day late in Hong Kong. This was when I was on the bigger side and knowing Hong Kong I couldn’t find clothes to fit my size.
 
Best piece of travel advice?

Always pack some clothes in your hand luggage.

Keep your passport and some money always in a safe place with you.

Plan your trip well to avoid added expenses because more money saved means more "money for shopping".

Collect miles and use it to upgrade flights it’s all worth it.

Your top five travel destinations?

Miami, USA

Hoi An, Vietnam

Wellington and Queenstown, New Zealand

Las Vegas, USA

Perth, Australia

What has travel taught you?

Given me new perspective about happiness.

Don’t be afraid to try things new.

Not to waste time.

Get up early and enjoy the day to the fullest.

Make the most of what you have.

Which country did you taste the best ever cuisine?

As I am a big foodie. I'll have to name a few. Yum Cha in Hong Kong, The Mao Gia food in China from Chairman Mao’s hometown. Pies, and lamb In New Zealand, non-vegetarian thali in Bangalore... the list can go on!

Next travel destination?

London and Europe 2016.

By Tina Edward Gunawardhana