For many of us, travel is a door to escapism, and something that (if we're lucky), we're able to indulge in a few precious times a year. For Michael Goh, travel happens so frequently that it's almost impossible to pin down the Senior Vice President of Sales at Star Cruises and Dream Cruises.

Fortunately, we catch him onboard the Explorer Dream, while we're in Shanghai to witness its christening. The vessel is the third addition to the Dream Cruises fleet, and with 928 staterooms in total, can carry up to 1,856 passengers. Designed in Singapore and outfitted at the Meyer Werft shipyard in Germany, the vessel was specifically built with the luxury Asian market in mind, and will sail to destinations in China, Japan, Vietnam, and also to Australia and New Zealand.

Having spent the last 19 years at Genting Hong Kong (which owns Star Cruises, Dream Cruises and Crystal Cruises), Goh tells us why cruising is still his top pick for a holiday.

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Above Michael Goh (left) with his wife Theresa and children, Gabriel and Megan. Photo: Michael Goh

Last trip?
Michael Goh (MG) Last December, I spent 13 nights onboard Crystal River Cruises and visited cities like Vienna, Budapest and Bratislava. It was simply spectacular and one of the best trips I've been on!

Next trip?
MG I'd love to cruise onboard Crystal Cruises again, but this time, on one of their ocean liners. It's always a fuss-free experience, and you're so well-taken care of.

What do you love most about travelling?
MG It gives you a break, allows you to recharge and it's time well-spent with family.

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Above Exploring Christmas markets
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Above Photo: Michael Goh

Most memorable travel experience?
MG I spent last New Year's Eve with my family in Bratislava. It was a cold winter night, but when it was time for the countdown, the enegry was high and people were celebrating. At the stroke of midnight, the fireworks went off, and it went on for a good 30mins. It so beautiful!

And the worst?
MG I won't name and shame, but I once booked a stay at a resort in Southeast Asia that claimed that it was newly opened but obviously wasn't. The room and bathroom was so dirty, and the swimming pool actually had broken tiles. I checked out immediately.

Your favourite travel companion(s)?
MG My wife, Theresa, and two teenagers, Gabriel and Megan.

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Above Big Ben in London. Photo: Pixabay

One place you’d visit over and over again?
MG London. I enjoy the vibrancy and diversity. It's a highly accessible city, and has great food, whether you're looking to dine at a restaurant of a celebrity chef, or miss Asian cuisine. 

The things you always travel with
MG My laptop, mobile phone and earpiece. Boring but very essential items!

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Hungarian Parliament Building in Budapest. Photo: Pixabay
Above Hungarian Parliament Building in Budapest. Photo: Pixabay

What do you read or watch on the plane
MG I love lifestyle magazines, like Singapore Tatler! (laughs) I also enjoy reading about design and interiors. My guilty pleasure on the plane is reality television. Singing and cooking competitions—they keep me entertained while I'm flying.

Your best travel tip?
MG Honestly? Relax. Eat well and sleep well.

How do you overcome jet lag?
MG Follow the local time. Even if you’ve not slept for 10 hours, resist the urge to nap and don’t rest until night time.

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