Tissa Madawala is a cameraman and videographer who has lived in London for over 30 years. Well known amongst the diaspora Tissa has been instrumental in creating several Sinhala films in the UK. Now retired he spends his time exploring the world. Here he shares his take on travel.

Why do you love travel?

There is so much to learn from travelling to many different parts of the world and I love to explore. Now that both my wife and I are retired we see travel as a benefit of our retirement.

What are your “must haves” while on holiday?

Of course I take my camera where ever I go  and also my wife as she is the ideal travel companion as she has the same interests as me.

What is the most unusual souvenir you have bought?

Sadly I don’t include shopping as an activity during my travels. My souvenirs are the photographs I take. They are the best memories for me.

In which country have you felt most at home?

I have been in England for over thirty years so for me I would say it is a combination between Sri Lanka and England.

Your favourite travel destination and why.

I just love New York and given the chance I would love to live there. I love the whole cultural aspect of the Big Apple.

Favourite holiday discovery?

I would not hesitate to go back to Masai Mara or Serengeti at any time as I love seeing the  wild life. They really are the most wonderful places I have been to.

Your top 5 travel destinations?

USA, Japan, Sri Lanka, India and the Serengetti.

Your next travel destination?

The Western USA.

Worst holiday experience?

Thankfully I have not had a really bad  experience but I feel very sad when I see the neglected state of the some of the wildlife bungalows in Sri Lanka. There is great potential if only they can be developed to a higher standard.

Best piece of travel advice?

Travelling in Africa is not very easy. You have to book with a reputed travel company. America and Canada is different. However traveling alone can be dangerous in any country so always have your wits about you.

By Tina Edward Gunawardhana