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The One In A Million Traveller

Destinations
Writer
Alea Adzhar
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The multitalented Alif Satar shares his love for Iceland and the joy of travelling with his wife and three kids.

Alif Satar began his journey as an entertainer at the young age of 16 when he rose to fame after becoming a finalist in “One In A Million”, a local singing competition that rewards the winner with a prize money of RM1 million. As he initially aimed to become a pilot, he joined the competition just so that he could use it as his ticket to enter the flying academy and pay his own tuition fees.

Snowtime in Hokkaido.
Snowtime in Hokkaido.

Growing up, Alif has always been passionate about music and performing. His determination to grow himself and continue learning is the key that got him to where he is today- a successful singer, host and actor.

The father of three spends most of his time with his family and enjoys exploring new places with them. He shares with us about his travelling experiences in Malaysia and around the world as well as his recommendations on go-to destinations with loved ones.

 

What is your idea of THE perfect vacation?

I’d like to think that the perfect relaxation time is without the kids at the moment (laughs) but the moment I reach the destination, I already miss the kids. Now, travelling is about experiencing the place and the journey itself with my family. I had to host a program in New Zealand and I got to cycle there besides experiencing the culture. At that time, I wished my family could be there, too.

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Biking adventure at Whakarewarewa Forest, New Zealand (L) At Waikato, Hobbiton where The Lord Of The Rings films were shot (R).
Underwater experience at Sibuan Island.
Underwater experience at Sibuan Island.

Where is your favourite local destination, and why?

Penang is home but I have to pick Sabah because Sabah has everything - the city and the beach that is only a 5-minute drive from Kota Kinabalu (KK). You can also hike up Mount Kinabalu. To me, KK has it all!

What are the top 3 destinations on your Bucket List, and why?

For me, I’d go to Norway to catch the Aurora lights. I’d love to go on an island trip in Bora-Bora with my family. The trip that will top it all would be a trip to the Safari with the kids. My kids get really excited when they see animals so I can imagine bringing them to Africa.

What is the one destination that you reckon everyone must visit at least once if given the opportunity?

Iceland! And there’s a reason why it is called "Planet Iceland". You will really feel like you are not on planet Earth. The minute you touch down and drive for 5 minutes, it’s all greenery and there are 7 waterfalls along the way (every 5 minutes). It’s stunning! Then, there’s snow and all of a sudden, you see an iceberg. You can see them all while you’re on the road. It is surreal!

Exploring the beauty of Iceland with his wife.
Exploring the beauty of Iceland with his wife.
Any tips on travelling with children?

I got nothing! (laughs). I’d say a lot of patience, a lot of warm water for the milk, and diapers. Just enjoy the experience and don’t be ashamed when the kids are cranky because that’s normal.

When at KLIA or klia2, which cafe or restaurant would you stop by when you have time to spare?

Malaysia Airlines has the best service at the lounge. I’d go for their wonton mee whenever I have to fly domestically. I usually relax at the lounge and get a shower before flight. I also like spending time at Dome, klia2 and have their fish ‘n’ chips.

Whenever you experience a flight delay or long layovers, how do you keep yourself occupied?

I watch a lot of movies. I also like to just sit and observe people at the lounge. Besides that, I like to read e-magazines so a real time-killer for me is reading.

Once travel restrictions due to the COVID-19 pandemic are over, what is your dream destination to go to?

If I were to travel with the kids, I’d choose Maldives for the beach. If I were to travel with my wife, I’d choose Norway for the Aurora lights.

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