Born and raised in Vancouver, British Columbia, I had the privilege of exploring the diverse landscapes of the province. From the Okanagan wine region, hikes up Cypress Mountain, and enjoying countless sunsets at Whytecliff Park. This sparked my curiosity to explore east, where I discovered Niagara Falls, Old Montréal, and old Québec City, reinforcing my belief that Canada truly has something to offer for every type of traveler.
After taking a six-month leave from my previous role as a hotel concierge in Vancouver, I traveled for three months in Europe including the United Kingdom, and three months in Southeast Asia. Following this incredible adventure I knew I wanted to move abroad to immerse myself in a new city.
At the beginning of 2023 I moved across the world to where I am now in London, England. Though moving abroad has been challenging, I chose the perfect career as I get to live in one of the best cities in the world and talk about one of my favorite countries daily.
Q&A with Janella
What鈥檚 your most vivid travel moment?
Despite having lived in British Columbia for 29 years, I never had the opportunity to witness orcas, which was something I had enthusiastically anticipated. While on a recent trip to Victoria, on Vancouver Island, we embarked on a three-hour whale-watching excursion, and to our amazement we quickly encountered a large pod of orcas, which included their adorable young ones too. It was such an incredible moment, leaving me confused if I should capture the moment with my camera, or simply take it in in the present.
Where would you love to travel next?
Surrounded by individuals who are jet-setting or discussing their next adventures, I often find it difficult to pinpoint the next destination on my lengthy list. However, as sushi is my absolute favorite cuisine, Japan declares the top spot on my travel wish list. The prospect of indulging in sushi daily, alongside immersing myself in a new and beautiful destination sounds like an incredible combination.
Which book, film or artwork captures Canada the most?
Canada has an incredibly wide variety of Aboriginal artists. However, one artist that stands out to me is Susan A Point, who focuses on creating Coast Salish art. It's hard to pinpoint a particular piece of hers that captures Canada most, although her book, "Susan Point Works on Paper" by Dane Croes, Susan Point, and Gary Wyatt, highlights 160 of her prints. If traveling to Vancouver you'll probably see her art throughout the city, including the international airport, and UBC鈥檚 Museum of Anthropology.