Shi Lim, Miss Universe Singapore

Shi Lim won Miss Universe Singapore in 2013, and went on to compete at Miss Universe 2013 in Moscow, Russia. She has since gone on to model and act, as well as been involved in TV projects like SupermodelMe: Sirens. She is passionate about exploring life from different perspectives and is an aspiring writer.

1.WHAT IS YOUR DREAM DESTINATION AND WHY?

Definitely Paris! The city looks absolutely magically in every photograph I’ve seen. I want to go there and just wander about on the streets, while people watching and taking in all the sights.

2.THREE THINGS THAT YOU COULD NEVER TRAVEL WITHOUT?

A mini umbrella (my protection against both sun and rain), comfortable walking shoes, and a camera!

3.WHICH DESTINATION SURPASSED YOUR EXPECTATIONS AND SURPRISED YOU THE MOST?

I would have to say, Malacca. As a Singaporean, Malaysia is not really a first choice on my list of travel destinations because it’s just across the border and very accessible. But on a recent trip to Malacca, I was awestruck by how beautiful, cultural, and multi-faceted the place is. It certainly is a state rich in heritage, and cultural and historical traditions. Not to mention the variety of mouthwatering street food I tried there. I think it was the first time I truly appreciated the richness Malaysia has to offer as a travel destination.

4.WHERE AND WHAT WAS YOUR MOST MEMORABLE MEAL YOU HAVE EVER HAD WHILE TRAVELLING?

It wasn’t a meal, but the most memorable thing I’ve eaten is bamboo worms in Yangon, Myanmar. I’m a pretty adventurous eater, but I shied away from insects. I simply could not imagine myself eating them. But the friend I was with convinced me that bamboo worms are a delicious delicacy I had to try. It took a bit of cajoling for me to finally pop one into my mouth with a sense of disgusted apprehension, but that first taste was almost a bit of a gastronomic epiphany. Bamboo worms are something I love to eat now, and it made me more open to trying other types of edible insects as well.

5.WHERE ARE YOU LOOKING TO TRAVEL TO NEXT?

So many places! Paris and Bhutan are on top of that list.

6.WHAT PROJECTS ARE YOU CURRENTLY WORKING ON?

I just finished a couple of shoots, so finally having some time to myself and taking it easy for now!

7.DO YOU HAVE ANY TIPS OR ADVICE FOR BUDDING MODELS/ACTRESSES/TV PERSONALITIES?

It’s a very competitive industry. I learnt that the best thing you can do is to go in always trying your best, and with a mind to learn and improve, but to hold no expectations. Just take things as they come (or not come).