Melissa Stephen

Jul 21 2014.

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Melissa Stephen is a young Sri Lankan born rap artiste who currently lives in Australia. Her debut single “Believe” written by her was produced by Grammy Award winning producer Scott Mathews. Performing under the name Miss Stephen, Melissa is a bubbly and exuberant personality.

Why do you love travel?

I love travel because it is so educational. I have lived in a few countries and experienced many cultures and that has been a major part of my upbringing. I consider myself a ‘Third Culture’ kid.

Your favourite travel destination and why?

My favourite travel destination is the Maldives because a large part of my childhood was spent there and nothing made me happier than to be in the Maldives with my family. My father was the general manager of an island “Fihalhohi”. He was based there and my two sisters and my mother lived in Sri Lanka so we travelled to the Maldives every chance we got.

What do you need for a perfect holiday?

I would probably need either a member of the family or a close friend. I wouldn’t enjoy travelling alone; I need to have someone with me on the adventure.

In which country have you felt most at home?

It's hard to say because I have had many homes, however it would have to probably be wherever my family is. That’s home to me.

Most unusual souvenir you have brought home?

When I was about 8 years old I visited Europe with my family and one of the destinations was Venice, Italy. We visited the Murano glass factory which was an amazing experience. I brought home a glass necklace in the shape of a leaf.

Favourite holiday discovery?

Marine life in the Maldives is the most magnificent experience. The water is crystal clear and the range of marine life is abundant and colorful.

Your top five travel destinations?

Sri Lanka, Maldives, Singapore, Germany and Italy.

What has travel taught you?

It has taught me many things especially understanding different cultures. I felt it has helped shape me as a person and as an artiste. With my music I always try to incorporate my life experiences and usually that involves the different cultures and countries I’ve experienced.

Which country did you taste the best ever cuisine?

Singapore has the best local food. The hawker centers are an experience in itself. This is where the true culture and flavor of food exists. Going to school there, it was the norm to eat from the hawker centers after school and spend time with friends.

Next travel destination?

I would like to experience America. As I currently live in Australia, I would love to fly across the world to America. I also believe as a rapper America would be an ideal place for me to be successful in the music industry.

Worst holiday or travel experience?

My worst holiday and travel experiences were probably in an area in Johor, Malaysia. It was in the forest for a school trip and I wasn’t prepared for the heat and insects.  However it was a beautiful place and the people were welcoming and friendly.

Best piece of travel advice?

Always be prepared for all occasions, whether its clothes, appliances, it’s better to be well stocked than having to worry about it later. It’s better to have it and not need it, rather than needing it and not having it.

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

I wouldn’t exactly want to single out a country, but I will say Malaysia. I’ve only had bad experiences with school trips when I lived in Singapore. I’m pretty sure Malaysia’s amazing, I just haven’t had the best of experiences and I wouldn’t say I wouldn’t go back there again.

Melissa Stephen's Debut Single 'Believe' on Itunes: https://itunes.apple.com/au/album/believe-single/id741221380

By Tina Edward Gunawardhana



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