For 15 years I was a professional dancer-singer, and I performed in productions all over the world. I was fortunate to see many places I would otherwise not have had the opportunity to visit, which is where my love of travel began.
I first moved to Japan in 2018 to work for Universal Studios and I was unsure what to expect. Armed with the latest Lonely Planet guide, I travelled extensively every spare second I got — island-hopping in tropical Okinawa and trundling through Hokkaido’s powdery winter landscape further north. I fell in love with Japan and it’s a love affair that continues to this day.
Now back in the UK, Japan and its culture has become a way of life for me. I have since been back to Japan with Audley and I know others will equally admire its unique charm when they visit this enthralling country.
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Q&A with Chris
What鈥檚 the best local dish you鈥檝e tasted?
As Osaka is my second home in Japan and is rightfully known as the 鈥楰itchen of Japan,鈥� my favourite delicacy is called takoyaki. Served piping hot in bamboo boats, takoyaki are small, diced octopus filled dough balls made on a special griddle and topped with splashings of mayonnaise, a Worcestershire type sauce, dried seaweed sprinkles and 鈥榙ancing鈥� bonito flakes. The flakes dance because the immense heat manipulates the delicate shaved flakes. One piece of advice, always wait a few minutes before eating, it鈥檚 incredibly hot.
Where would you love to travel next?
A country that has been at the top of my bucket list for a long time now is Uzbekistan. I鈥檓 fascinated by its history, the beautiful blue hues of its ancient landmarks and a cuisine I鈥檓 dying to try. I feel it鈥檚 a country full of surprises that鈥檚 eagerly waiting to be explored 鈥� and I鈥檓 ready.
Which book, film or artwork captures Japan the most?
The beautifully crafted Sofia Coppola film 鈥楲ost in Translation鈥� depicts two strangers in Tokyo, not knowing anyone else in the city. It鈥檚 a story about things being disconnected and looking for moments of connection in an alien landscape. Not too unlike a traveller trying to navigate a new and exciting country. The film features exquisite photography shots of the city, and the slower pace of the film offers moments to reflect.