Accuracy, organization and cleanliness is what Japan is famous for, but the kindness and courtesy of the people of Japan toward each other is what keeps impressing me every day. The respect shown to the people, their surroundings and the environment is what I appreciate most in Japan.

Enjoy your life and enjoy it now. It is too short not to have fun. My son was born a year ago and of course this has completely changed my life. I try to spend as much time as possible with my family and love seeing my kid growing up.

The greatest achievement was the family-like atmosphere we created with the team. Guests felt it and we became friends. At one property in China, with nothing special in the city but industry, we created something that made our guests excited to come back. Many have visited me in Japan and stayed in contact. This touched on a personal level and helped my career.

My goals have shifted a bit since coming to Japan. I wish to learn more about the people, the language and the culture together with my son who was born here. In my career, there is still a lot to achieve; I will never stop learning more to reach the next position.

It is beautiful here. Learn from the people around you — those you work with and those you meet. Get to know them. It is an amazing journey. Travel a lot. But most importantly, do not forget to enjoy all these different and delicious dishes from Japan. Eat, drink and eat more!