Journeys of self-discovery THE bubbly host of ntv7’s Breakfast Show and My Aussie Adventure programme, Nazruddin Rahman, broke many hearts last weekend when he tied the knot with his sweetheart, newscaster Sheahnee Iman. Congratulations! Better known as Naz, the freelance presenter and actor with that irresistible boyish smile says he finds great pleasure in seeking serenity and going on self-discovery missions.

It’s a close fight between Off Road All-Terrain Vehicle (ATV) 4x4 riding in Cherating or doing the Ngajat Iban war dance with full gear. Or rather, lack of it.

Have you ever had a really bad experience? Sleeping in a rumah tumpangan (budget lodging) that smelled of rat piss. The rat actually ran over my head while I was asleep. None of this was in the brochure! How best do you unwind on your holiday? A good book, sunblock, I-pod, soccer ball and secluded beach — in the company of like-minded friends. Any beach will do. We have so many beautiful ones here.

What type of holidays do you prefer? Any that involves ATV trails, an opportunity to interact with the locals, has at least one museum and one technological/natural marvel all in one spot. Even on holiday, one can still learn about another country and its people.

Who do you usually go holiday with? Usually with loved ones and friends... those who can take my idiosyncrasies like leaving my clothes on the floor. Don’t be a slob on a holiday? Well, that’s difficult.

What can’t you leave home without when you travel? Camera and socks, and undies. Lots of undies.

Which is your favourite holiday destination in Malaysia? Does it also give you the best holiday memory? Penang gives me the best memories... great beaches, so many heritage buildings and architecture and gastronomical delights! What’s the best hotel you’ve stayed in so far? Why? The KL Hilton. Nice place, impeccable service. Sutera Harbour Sabah also deserves mention.

What or who do you miss most when you go away on vacation? Cheaper call rates. Call-roaming is deplorable.

What do you hate most while travelling? Long haul flights with transit. Tiring! With all the security checks at each transit, getting to your destination can be stressful! Where would you like to go next? Pulau Sipadan definitely! As soon as I get my diving licence.

Where would you recommend your friend to go? I would recommend coming with me to Pulau Sipadan! The more the merrier! Otherwise, Pangkor Laut Resort, or Sarawak and Sabah. What was the best thing you bought on your travel and where? A foot/bunion cushion to put in my shoes. Best thing I did! What was the best food you ever tasted during your travel and where? So many – satar in Terengganu, mee sultan in Penang, mee kolok in Satok, Sarawak.

Are you a compulsive traveller or do you follow your budget and itinerary carefully? I’m a bit of both. While most trips are planned, I always allocate the first day for bumming and the last day should also be free and easy.

Any advice or tips for travellers? A mini torchlight comes in handy... you NEVER know what can happen. And lots of socks and undies... you NEVER know when you get to do your laundry...

Any comment on Malaysian tourism: places of interest, services, etc? Many of our exhibits in exhibition halls or museums can do with an overhaul. Conventional museums are outdated. Now, interactivity technology is essential. Also, closer rapport between tour operators and tourism products will benefit both parties and improve our standing in the eyes of tourists from all over the world.