Savour BlackBookAsia Magazine interviews Koh Jian Ying, Singapore’s National Waterpolo Player since 2010. A lawyer by profession, called to the bar in 2017 while at the same time juggling an intensive training schedule. He has been to 5 SEA games and 2 ASIAN games. Jian Ying shares with us his travel dreams on both professional and leisure basis.
1. What is your dream destination and why?
Africa. For travel destinations I prefer something more adventurous and close to nature as opposed to visiting cities. I used to watch a lot of national geographic shows when I was a child and I have always wanted to visit a wildlife park/ nature reserve in Africa.
2. Three things that you could never travel without?
a. A good pair of shoes for trekking/ exercising/ walking. B. Handphone to keep myself connected to family/ work C. Phone charger
3. Which destination surpassed your expectations and surprised you the most?
Turkey, in particular Cappadocia and Pamukkale. I didn’t know much about it then apart from what was on the internet and had relatively low expectations of it. The memories that stand out for me was the hot air balloon ride that I took and the cave/chimney accommodation in Cappadocia. I also enjoyed visiting the ruins in Acropolis which brought to life many of the Greek mythologies I had read in my youth.
4. Where and what was your most memorable meal you have ever had while travelling?
Greek food, in particular gyros at Labuan Bajo. This was from a Greek restaurant at the hotel I was staying, Selini at the hills. This was after I had food poisoning and had not had anything to eat for a day, so it tasted really good. Back when I visited, Lebuan Bajo was still a relatively unknown tourist destination and this was one of the few places to stay and dine.
5. Where are you looking to travel to next?
Cambodia. I have never been there and it looks interesting with various old temples to explore. Also it is somewhere nearby and convenient in terms of a quick getaway/holiday.
6. What projects are you currently working on?
Sports wise there are no concrete plans for this year as everything in still in a state of flux due to the Covid Situation. However one target would be the 2021 Sea Games. Currently I am just trying to balance training and work commitments and to stay fit despite having no access to gym and pool facilities.
7. Do you have any tips or advice for budding athletes?
Stay disciplined in order to achieve your goals. One must also be willing to make sacrifices, be it leisure time with friends etc.