When I was a child, I grew up watching all these TV shows and films about all the places I wanted to visit but couldn't afford to. For that reason, I was drawn to languages and travelling, and had always known my career path would have to be related to that in one way or another.
Asia is the furthest one could get from the Spanish culture I grew up in, so all the differences in its landscape and culture fascinated me; specially how the Japanese technological development contrasts with its deeply rooted traditionalism, as well as the cultural and spiritual richness that characterizes its inner corners.
After a few recurrent visits to the country and a year living in Tokyo, life took me to Audley, where I am lucky enough to use my experience, knowledge, and passion to make others fall in love with Japan.
Q&A with Eva
What's your most vivid travel moment?
When travelling around rural Japan in August of 2021, we ended up roaming around a remote road around south Sakurajima, the most active volcano in Japan, under the ruthless sun of the Japanese summer. We almost cried in pure happiness when we glimpsed the traditional pottery shop we had gone there for, only to notice there was absolutely nobody inside. After 3-5 minutes of fearful confusion, a lady popped up from the back of the shop with a look of surprise to see us, three foreigners, in that shop in the middle of nowhere. But after discovering we could speak Japanese, she was so excited and curious she offered us cold towels, tea and onigiris in exchange for some conversation. It was a moment of such genuine connection and gratitude that it made the many years I spent learning Japanese worth it.
Where would you love to travel next?
I've wanted to go to Antarctica for ages now. I've always loved remote regions and wildlife, and the leopard seal is one of those animals I've always been eager to see. They're not only massive and the second largest predator in their ecosystem, but also one of the most prehistoric-looking animals in the world. They are so scary I would love to see them in person.
Your best piece of travel advice?
When travelling to Miyajima, the sacred island with the famous torii on the sea, many don’t know that the tide changes dramatically during the day. This causes trails to the torii to open up when the sea level goes down, making it possible to walk to the 14 meter tall wooden gate and touch it. But due to how random those changes can be (depending on the day and the time of the year), I often advise to spend at least one night in Miyajima to guarantee that experience. Besides, during the night, the island becomes very quiet, creating an atmosphere of intimacy that makes the stay much more memorable.