Vicky Taylor
Originally half English and half Sweden, I always dreamt about the Japanese country-side. On the very same day as I handed in my final university essay, I had a one-way flight booked to Asia.
There's just something about traveling and seeing new places, cultures and views as you go along. I love all forms of travel and I have backpacked, traveled Europe by camper van, done road trips through Japan, gone horse riding and lived abroad. Travel has changed my life and view of the world - and it could change yours too.
Today, I'm based exactly where I want to be - in the beautiful Japanese country-side with a view of Mt. Fuji. I fell in love in this wonderfully strange country and I want more people to see the seasonal beauty, the authentic and traditional Japanese life as well as the eclectic mix of tradition, high-tech and night life that can be found in Tokyo.
I specialise not only in travel planning, but also in travel writing - two ways for me to share all the wonderful places with everyone who wants to experience something new and unique.
What places and activities do you specialize in?
"The real Japan - away from the typical touristy attractions. Japan is my home, and when you live in a place and speak the language, you get a chance to experience much more of a country's traditions, customs and culture.
If you are looking for a unique trip to Japan, something you will remember for a lifetime and that will make everyone at home jealous - then I'm your girl. I have traveled by most forms of transportation, slept in everything from a tent to a 5-star hotel and most of all - seen and done some amazing things that I would love to share with you.
I specialise in out-of-the-ordinary experiences that will maximise your time and experiences in Japan. Scuba-diving? I know the best spots. Want a real adventure? We're just getting started!"
How did you get involved in travel?
"I always dreamt about traveling the world as a child. I dreamt about far-away places like America and Japan. My family never had the opportunity to travel, so after I finished my Bachelor's degree in Tourism, I left my home country to travel Asia and Europe and I never stopped.
The more I travel, the more I want to see and inspire others to see. Out of all the countries I have visited, my favourite place remains Japan and I am fortunate enough to call it home. No matter how much I travel, Japan always has something new in store for me.
Before I started work as a travel specialist, my passion for travel led me down the path of a travel writer. As such, I've been lucky enough to be sent to some incredible places in Japan to share views and promote local activities in places like Uonuma, Sado Island, Okayama and many more. "
Please share a unique travel experience you will never forget.
"A few years ago, I took my Jeep and went off on a roadtrip through Japan. During two weeks I passed through incredible cities and villages in Shizuoka, Gifu, Fukui, Ishikawa, Toyama, Nagano and Yamanashi.
I saw some of the most amazing views of my life and was lucky enough not only to experience traditional places such as the UNESCO site Shirakawago, but also the firefly squid - which can only be seen during a short period of time in Spring. During this time, I was greeted by kindhearted people and had my fill of local Japanese food from several prefectures. An experience that would not have been possible in a group tour or by local transportation. "
Vicky's favorite itineraries and travel advice
Top itineraries and travel advice
Welcome to Japan! On this two-week journey around the main island, Honshu, you'll enjoy a mix of cultural sightseeing and active adventures. Visit sacred temples and shrines,...
Japan is famous for its Spring cherry blossoms and its changing colors in Autumn, but there are beautiful places to see in every season. Japan stretches from subtropical...
Get ready for a memorable village-to-village trek on the Kii Peninsula along sections of Japan's famous Kumano Kodo pilgrimage trail. Perfect for avid hikers, this self-guided...