Though she's sweet 17 and looks and acts mature for her age, Diana Danielle is always mummy's little girl. She is not allowed to travel by herself, either for leisure or working assignments, except for one trip across the Causeway last year.
The model-actress is taking a short break from her hectic shooting schedule to focus on her Sijil Pelajaran Malaysia examination. Her acting career will resume three days after her last paper.
Despite her busy acting schedule and the recording of her debut album (yes, the talented girl sings too), Danielle looks forward to taking a holiday with her mother soon.
Have you ever had a really bad experience?
Yes. A few days before the New Year, my friends and I went to Singapore without any plan or pre-booking arrangement. Since it was the peak season, all hotels were packed and we couldn't get a room. To make things worse, Singapore hotels have a policy of not accepting unaccompanied under-aged guests. We ended up roaming the streets looking for a room and finally found one in a small motel. Then too, we had to beg the management to take us in.
What type of holidays do you prefer?
A beach or island holiday, especially one that offers a high level of privacy.
Who do you usually go holiday with?
My mother. The Singapore trip was my first without her.
What can't you leave home without when you travel?
My mobile phone and La Coste perfume.
Which is your favourite holiday destination in Malaysia? Does it also give you the best holiday memory?
Pulau Rawa, Johor. The resort belongs to my mother's friend. I love the white sand, clear blue sea and colourful corals. At any opportunity to go for a holiday, Pulau Rawa will come to mind.
What's the best hotel you've stayed in so far? Why?
The Rebak Island Resort, Langkawi. Big room, lots of privacy and friendly staff.
What or who do you miss most when you go away on vacation?
My cats. I used to have 12 but now I have only eight.
What do you hate most while travelling?
Long-haul flights. I wish there is a hi-tech tele-transporter that can just beam us to our destinations!
Where next would you like to go?
We plan to visit Australia and Bali but I want to go to Penang first. I love the beach life there.
Where would you recommend your friend to go?
Pulau Rawa. But if they want good spa treatment in a beautiful, exotic place, I would recommend Langkawi. And finally, I will take them to my hometown, Bukit Merah in Taiping, Perak.
What was the best thing you bought on your travel and where?
I usually shop in Kuala Lumpur. On holidays, I only buy souvenirs for friends, like key chains (laughs).
What was the best food you ever tasted during your travel and where?
Cheese-butter prawn in Pulau Rawa. I don't really like prawns but this time, I finished the whole plate by myself.
Are you a impulsive traveller or do you follow your budget and itinerary carefully?
I am extremely impulsive. I don't like to plan. I would just get up and go where I want to go and I don't budget.
Any advice or tips for travellers?
Always go with someone and always bring extra cash. Don't go alone and try not to go out at night.