Bright, vivacious and bubbly best describes Thushanee, a senior manager in quality systems and process management at a leading telecommunication company in Sri Lanka. A mum of one, Thushanee lists sewing, handicrafts and travelling as her hobbies.

Why do you love to travel?

It breaks the rut - we are constantly running a rat race, travel breaks the monotonous nature of our modern lives and forces us to find ourselves. Travel broadens my perspective, introducing me to various experiences, cultures, people, cuisine, customs, architecture and landscapes that I have learnt to appreciate the variety that life offers.

Your favorite travel destination and why?

Europe – It has a charming atmosphere and its rich in its culture; fabulous history, exquisite cuisine and best of all picturesque villages.

What do you need for a perfect holiday?

Great ambience, fabulous cuisine and stunning landscapes.

In which country have you felt most at home?

Singapore.

Most unusual souvenir you have brought home?

A popular fairy tale (little mermaid) re-written and printed which portrays my daughter and her friends as the main characters.

Worst holiday or travel experience?

Travelling back to Sri Lanka with my daughter running a high fever. Travelling with a sick child is every mother's nightmare.

Best piece of travel advice?

Travel light; keep it simple and keep it classy.

Your top five travel destinations?

LA, Paris, Prague, Sydney and Singapore.

What has travel taught you?

It has helped to reevaluate my priorities in life, value experiences more, to be spontaneous but most importantly it has cemented my belief that we should accept everyone as equal and we are all human.

Which country did you taste the best ever cuisine?

Italy.

Next travel destination?

Rio De Janeiro, Brazil.

By Tina Edward Gunawardhana