Cape Town - Shaun Oelf is a dancer and choreographer. He is in the dance and theatre production Struck Silent, a collaboration between the Baxter Theatre Centre and Sweden’s Scenkonst Sörmland, on from September 9 to 13.
How widely have you travelled?
I have been to Mozambique, Korea, Seychelles, Namibia and Sweden. I have also travelled South Africa extensively.
I was fortunate to travel to different parts of Sweden last year with the dance production of I Hit the Ground Running.
This current production of Struck Silent will once again tour to various parts of that country after our run at the Baxter.
Where was your favourite holiday or time spent abroad?
It has to be the Seychelles. For me it was like work, pleasure and everything else rolled into one. I really love the island life. And Sweden, I do so like it, as it has become like home.
Your worst experience on a holiday?
This usually has to do with issues relating to border patrol. I seem to have developed an immense dislike for officious customs officers. I understand that they have to do their jobs but they could improve their approach and attitude to visitors.
What do you avoid during a holiday?
Definitely avoid getting arrested in a foreign country. That can’t be much fun.
Best meal abroad?
Swedish cheese, breads and their coffee. Another hit for me is fellow dancer Gunilla Hammar’s quiches. I highly recommend them.
Your favourite place to have sundowners on your travels?
There are too many to mention. I really love chill and “loungey” spots. La Vie is always good to come home to.
What have you learnt from your travels?
Guard you bags and make sure they are properly tagged or labelled. Research your destination. I have also learnt that South Africa is on par with the rest of the world. Not everything that comes from abroad is better.
Ideal travelling companion?
My partner, Grant van Ster. We love travelling together.
Culture vulture or adrenalin junkie?
Totally love culture but adrenalin has a way of just taking over.
Greatest travel luxury?
I love hotels and having everything sorted for me from visas to flights and all those sorts of things.
Holiday reading?
I suppose it is really whatever I can lay my hands on. I tend to watch lots of bad television – it helps me to relax.
Favourite drive?
A drive-through. Taking train rides in Sweden is really another favourite. It all works so efficiently.
Dream trip?
Disney World in the US and Greece – two totally different destinations, I know, but I am fascinated by each one for different reasons.
As a seasoned traveller and flyer can you share some tips?
Be flexible when it comes to plans.
Where next?
I am not sure yet actually, hopefully the Edinburgh Festival next year.
Weekend Argus