Johannesburg - Stallone Santino, a producer on 5FM’s The Weekend Play Date with Nicole Da Silva, is one of the 23 finalists in the Mr South Africa competition.
And he has been appointed entertainment manager at The Reef Hotel. When he isn’t wearing one of his many hats, he enjoys travelling. He shares a few of his memories with us...
First holiday memory?
This would have to be my trip to Mauritius. It was around Easter of 2005, I must have been in Grade 8. My grandparents, who loved to travel, decided to take the whole family on a trip abroad. This memory sticks out the most. So much fun was had. From kayaking in crystal blue waters and eating delicious international cuisine to being evacuated to a secret location due to a tsunami scare.
Favourite place in South Africa?
Surprisingly, I would have to say Durban. There is such energy and diversity that cannot be found anywhere else in the country. From the food, to the people, Durban has my heart. Apart from the fact that I grew up there, I love the ocean and beautiful weather.
Best holiday?
This is a tough one. I’ve gone on a number of holidays and each is so special to me. I’d have to say my favourite holiday, despite having travelled to six countries, would have to be in Boracay in the Philippines. Words cannot describe this glorious island. Chilling on silky white sand, grooving to Bob Marley, sunset boat rides - oh, there’s too much to mention!
What have you learnt from your travels?
That there is a whole new world out there. Travelling has opened my eyes to so many rich cultures, amazing people and the beauty there is outside South Africa. I’ve learnt so much about people, cultural differences and, most of all, how much I love to travel. If I could travel all year round, I would.
Ideal travelling companion?
Most of my travels have been with friends. While I don’t have one particular companion, I would definitely choose to travel with some of my closest friends. Being with a group of friends who enjoy the same things as I do only makes things a whole lot of fun - and we can be crazies together.
Beach bum, culture vulture or adrenalin junkie?
Definitely a beach bum!
Greatest travel luxury?
Hard Rock Hotel in Macau. Probably the coolest and most luxurious hotel I’ve stayed in.
Holiday reading?
Hell, no! This should be a holiday sin! Unless it’s a magazine in the loo or I’ve gone on a spiritual retreat (highly doubt), there is no chance I’ll be reading on holiday.
Where has seduced you?
Phuket in Thailand. So much seduction going on there, it’s unbelievable. You’ll find yourself questioning your moral standards - trust me!
Worst travel experience?
Kuala Lumpur in Malaysia. There must have been three attractions that stood out for me. Other than that, I found it to be a waste of money. Didn’t like it one bit.
Best hotel?
The Grand Harbour Hotel in Hong Kong. I almost maxed my credit card for this stay, but boy oh boy, was it outstanding!
Favourite walk, swim, ride or drive?
My favourite swim would have to be snorkelling off Phi Phi island among thousands of Nemos and shouting “I’ve found him” at the top of my lungs.
Best meal abroad?
Dak Galbi (spicy-saucy chicken-y stir-fry) and Kimchi Soup (spicy fermented cabbage soup with tofu), both of which are Korean. Love it, love it, love it!
Favourite city?
Seoul, South Korea. Such a lively and artsy city, which is basically crime-free. Great food, great people, great culture, and great atmosphere.
Where to next?
Los Angeles, US. I plan to visit a good friend of mine in the near future. I’ve always wanted to visit the US, so this will surely be my next travel destination.
Los Angeles
Durban
There is so much seduction going on in Phuket.
Independent Traveller