A confirmed foodie, Samangi loves to travel in order to try out global cuisine and meet people. Working as a merchandiser enabled Samangi to live in the Big Apple for a year which she counts as an unforgettable experience.

Why do you love travel?

I’m a foodie so I love to travel to try out the food and meet people.

Your favourite travel destination and why?

NYC. It’s where I lived for a year, and the place where I  found myself!

What do you need for a perfect holiday?

Good food, good music and a beautiful beach to relax on.

In which country have you felt most at home?

NYC, USA.

Most unusual souvenir you have brought home?

A cactus plant fridge magnet from Las Vegas which my mom did not want in the house. According to Mum it is bad Feng Shui so I have the pot but not the mini cactus plant.

Worst holiday or travel experience?

Tadoba, Nagpur, India – every morning on our way to the National Park we would witness the sight of men and women doing their morning ritual with their bare bottoms exposed to the road.

Best piece of travel advice?

Travel light. Take extra underwear! Research the place you want to visit.

Your top five travel destinations?

USA, Spain, New Zealand, Greece and South Africa. The last three are on my bucket list.

What has travel taught you?

To appreciate new faces, new flavours and appreciate adventures and experiences.

Which country did you taste the best ever cuisine?

Thailand. That said, NY street food – Lamb & Chicken Rice on 53rd & 6th Avenue (my Pilawoos in NY). Jenny’s Ice Cream, Columbus, USA.

Next travel destination?

Australia / New Zealand.

By Tina Edward Gunawardhana