Originally published on metropolis.co.jp on March 2012

Why did you come to Japan and when?

I have been in Japan for six months now, for my work with InterContinental Hotels Group.

How’s your Japanese?

I realized I was making progress when I was recently in a store. I was able to understand when the sales attendant told someone on the phone she had a crazy foreigner in the store trying to get his order early—and that he would not be getting it…

How long have you worked with the ANA InterContinental Tokyo?

I was appointed Area Director of Sales and Marketing—Tokyo, based at the ANA InterContinental Tokyo six months ago, but I have worked at IHG for a total of six years. I am responsible for the sales and marketing operations at ANA InterContinental Tokyo, The Strings by InterContinental Tokyo, and ANA Crowne Plaza Narita.

Any sticky situations in the marketing department since you got here?

Anything to do with mistaken use of auto translation.

Can you tell us one of the celebrities and VIPs you’ve met at the hotel?

One of the most interesting personalities I met in the last six months was the President of Costa Rica, Laura Chinchilla. Some people make such a striking first impression that you never forget the moment you met them.

Where is your favorite spot at the ANA InterContinental Tokyo?

Without a doubt, our Club InterContinental. It is located on the 35th floor of the hotel, and because of the triangular design of our building, has the most incredible vistas from three different perspectives.

Any recommendations for readers?

Our Michelin-starred Pierre Gagnaire restaurant on level 36 is a very special restaurant indeed. For a magnificent nighttime perspective of the beautiful Tokyo skyline with a dry martini in hand, our cocktail bar MIXX also on level 36, is perfect.

Spring is on its way, what kind of events will be on offer at the hotel?

Some of the highlights include special accommodation packages for weekend getaways for both couples and families, our Sakura lunch and dinner menus in restaurants Unkai and Karin, and a range of new pastries and breads based on spring seasonal produce in Pierre Gagnaire Pains et Gateaux, located in our lobby.

What’s your favorite Tokyo spot to unwind when you’re off duty?

High on my list of interests are architecture, and interior and landscape design. So Tokyo is a neverending feast for me. I’m crazy for examples of contemporary Japanese gardens based on traditional design principles. I love the rock terraces at the Imperial Palace Gardens.

What’s the best and worst thing about living in Tokyo?

The best? I always feel I’ll find a new brilliant discovery around the next corner, and I nearly always do. The worst? People might not agree, but to me this is a silent city, and silence can be deafening.