Tim Yap is the ultimate slashie. He’s an entrepreneur / TV and radio host / eventologist / newspaper editor / columnist / club owner / life of the party. Should we go on? And recently the Filipino super personality graced The Luxe Nomad with his presence (and a chat) during a stay at AYA Niseko in Niseko. Read on for Tim’s must-haves, travel bucket list and Niseko highlights!
What are your must-have winter items?
Winter coats, thermals, the right eyewear, sunblock, lip balm and moisturiser.
You stayed with us at Aya Niseko for nearly a week! What were the big highlights of your trip?
- Learning how to ski, falling most of the time and getting back up each time.
- Walking around Niseko village and discovering the most amazing restaurants.
- Sometimes slipping through the slippery road and reminding myself to buy crampons.
- Eating Hokkaido ice cream in the snow is another definite highlight.
Read also: Beyond the Slopes: 7 things to do in Niseko even if you’re not skiing
What’s on your travel bucket list this year? What destinations will you be visiting?
I want to explore Myanmar and Sri Lanka sometime soon. I’m also going to Croatia.
The rest of the year is already planned, with visits to London, Berlin, Mykonos, Madrid for a birthday party, a marathon and a wedding. Not necessarily in that order.
As an eventologist, you always seem to have a lot going on. What events are you excited for this year?
I’m in the events industry, so there are events almost every day, with me hosting and producing a lot of it. I work with a lot of luxury brands, hip hotels and cool clubs for these events. In other words, I’m excited about everything!
Read also: It Girls Georgina and Jess Wilson on why they love Niseko
Back to Niseko, what were your first impressions of the Aya Niseko suite?
Wow, Aya Niseko. The penthouse unit, with its rooms and views and private onsen with a view of Mount Yotei, is breathtaking. I looked forward to waking up and looking at the view. There’s something really calming about it. Staying there gave me a wonderful sense of peace.
Are there any particular features of the hotel that stood out?
I really loved that the ski lesson area was just right outside the hotel. Like, first step out. So, so central. Extremely happy with the service at the ski valet— made skiing for a newbie like me so convenient. Everyone from the reception to housekeeping was very efficient. I totally would recommend everyone to stay at Aya. The best!