SH: What inspires you to travel?
TC: I’m mostly inspired by the books I read, the people I meet, the articles I read, and the idea of picking up challenges.

SH: What are some of your favourite destinations?
TC: In China, Qinghai, Gansu and Xinjiang Provinces are amazing, and still mainly tourist-free, as is northern Yunnan. Jiangsu has the best road network in China if you're a motorbike fan. As for overseas destinations, you really can’t beat France, Bali and Japan.

SH: Most valued travel tips?
TC: Travel light, as you can find everything everywhere these days. Don't plan too much, as the unexpected will create the adventures.

SH: What do you miss about Shanghai while you are away?
TC: The 11th floor terrace bar at The Peninsula hotel, El Willy, and the Cold Stone shop in Xintiandi.

SH: Which aspect of traveling do you find the most difficult to do?
TC: Crossing borders is always a hassle. I don't know why, but those guys always manage to make you feel guilty. Communicating with locals can be difficult too, but it's all part of the fun.

SH: How do you maintain health and fitness when you are away?
TC: I usually travel to remote parts of countries so food is healthy anyway, and my trips are usually quite physical.

SH: What can’t you leave home without?
TC: My iPod, my sunglasses, a few books and my toothbrush.

SH: What is your most treasured possession you have picked up while traveling?
TC: Great friendships.

SH: What has been your most memorable holiday?
TC: Backpacking through Central America was pretty special. The trip I am doing right now is shaping up to be unforgettable too. We’re riding three sidecar motorbikes from Shanghai to Paris, and we’re currently at Kazakhstan's Aral Sea. Our trip can be followed at www.projectsidebyside.com

SH: What is the best restaurant, café, or bar that you have visited while traveling?
TC: Kudeta in Bali was a striking experience even though it’s quite expensive. The Galle Face hotel in Colombo, Sri Lanka, is superb. It used to be a palace built by an Indian maharajah whose daughter in got married in Colombo. The maharajah couldn't find a place that was up to his standards for the celebration, so he built one! As for bars, I love the Felix Bar in Hong Kong's Peninsula Hotel (try out the men's rooms!) and a nameless street-side dumpling restaurant in Shanghai's Old City.

SH: What are the top holiday destinations that you are yet to visit?
TC: All the countries I haven't yet been to!

SH: Who is your favourite traveling companion?
TC: The most beautiful woman in the world: Valeriane

SH: What is your ideal holiday?
TC: A mix of rough, off-the-beaten-tracks travel and laid back, comfy stops, meeting new people and discovering non-touristic places.