Name: Shanel Debattista
Age: 25
Occupation: Co-director, The Wardrobe Boutique
My best holiday ever…
The London ‘taxi’ for women even had champagne inside
In July 2009 I won Miss World Malta which meant I had the opportunity to represent the country in the Miss World finals in South Africa in December.
The contest’s duration was six weeks. We started in London, moved on to Abu Dhabi, and then we spent four weeks in South Africa, mainly in Johannesburg although we also visited Durban, Port Elizabeth and Cape Town as well.
My dad came to see me for the finals and I was thrilled that I could share this wonderful experience with him.
After the contest finished in mid-December we visited a lion park and went on a wild safari. It was so amazing to experience wildlife in their natural setting.
After my dad returned to Malta I went back to Cape Town for two weeks with my boyfriend Chris and spent New Year’s Eve there.
It was the first time I had experienced Christmas during summertime and although it was weird celebrating the festivities in warm weather, it was without doubt the best holiday ever.
I would never return to…
Zimbabwe.
The most dangerous place I’ve visited…
Again, Zimbabwe. Although I will never forget the spectacular Victoria Falls, I found that the poor economic situation is driving criminal activity.
Robbery, bag-snatching and assaults on foreigners were pretty common on the streets. I don’t recommend walking around or carrying items like extra cash, jewellery, electronic goods or passports.
My favourite city…
Cape Town. I always enjoy it and whenever I get my first glimpse of Table Mountain in the distance my heart beats a little faster.
Besides the beautiful natural setting, I get a buzz from the rush of people and traffic, the buildings, giant shopping complexes, beautiful beaches... everything. I haven’t been to many cities, but I imagine that Cape Town is probably one of the more pleasant ones. I get a particularly nice feeling in there that I don’t get anywhere else.
My most memorable experience on an aircraft…
During the Miss World competition we were flying every four-to-seven days. There were 120 contestants in total and when we were leaving Abu Dhabi to fly to Johannesburg, we made up a large proportion of the passengers on the plane.
I’ll never forget being asked to autograph other passengers’ tickets as they couldn’t believe they were sharing a plane with all the Miss World contestants. It was so funny.
I’ll never forget being asked to autograph other passengers’ tickets as they couldn’t believe they were sharing a plane with all the Miss World contestants
My most treasured holiday souvenir…
In London I bought a model of the ‘London Eye’, but in place of the capsules that people normally stand inside it has shot glasses – it’s the only souvenir I actually use.
I also have a little tradition of buying myself a fridge magnet in every place I visit.
The friendliest people…
After travelling to many countries, I’d have to say Malta. I find that we are more relaxed here and our lifestyle isn’t as hectic as it is in many countries abroad. As a result, people here have more time for one another.
I never travel without...
The gold cross that belonged to my late grandfather. It’s very special to me and whenever I travel to faraway places I always feel his presence; he keeps me strong.
The taxi ride I will never forget…
Three years ago a girlfriend and I went to London one evening after we were invited to the opening of a new nightclub. We found a few numbers of taxis and chose one to take us to the club.
When the ‘taxi’ arrived we didn’t realise it was for us as it looked nothing like a normal taxi. It was a type of black Hummer with Fucia pink fur inside. Apparently it was designed specifically for women. We couldn’t believe it – they even had champagne inside. We laughed all the way to the club.
My all-time favourite holiday photo...
A photo of me and my boyfriend Chris when we went to Cape Town together for the first time.
An unforgettable hotel...
The Elephant Hills Resort at Victoria Falls in Zimbabawe. It has an 18-hole championship golf course designed by the legendary Gary Player. While you’re playing golf or tanning by the pool, you might be interrupted by bucks, warthogs or elephants passing through!
I also loved staying at The Yas Viceroy Hotel in Abu Dhabi. It has a unique design, set half on land and half on water. Oh, and its very close to Ferrari World!
I return most often to...
Johannesburg and Italy.
My ideal travel companion...
My boyfriend.
Country with the best cuisine...
It has to be Italy; specifically Rome.
My next holiday plans…
Despite the dire economic situation in Greece, next year I would like to visit many of the famous islands including Mikonos, Santorini and Skyros.
My dream trip…
Bali. I think of it as a tropical wonderland, with technicolour sunsets, hikes through the forest, thatched-roof huts, idyllic sandy beaches... just the perfect place to get away from it all really.
Ideally I’d have no laptop, iPad or mobile phone, although I wouldn’t mind a TV.
I partied hardest in…
Dubai in 2005 with my friend Lucienne. We must have hit every single bar and club in the city!
My travel tip…
Separate your money; don’t keep it all in one place. I always like to carry a small pouch filled with medicine because you can never be certain how you will deal with a different climate and different cuisine.