"Introducing Mr. and Mrs. Leyko, the accommodation owner in Izu Shizuoka, where we engage in the tourism industry, create together, and celebrate with joy. We are delighted to share their story with you. Please feel free to read the English translation below for those who can understand English. Mr. Reiko Alex is originally from Russia and currently serves as the Executive Senior Director of a recruitment agency. He arrived in Japan in 1996. The beginning of his connection with Shimoda can be traced back to his quest for beautiful seas, which initially led him to Shirahama in Shimoda."
もうすっかり下田はホームタウンのようですが 最近のお気に入りの過ごし方を教えてください。
Q: It seems that Shimoda has become a true hometown for Mr. Reiko Alex. Could you please share your recent favorite ways to spend time here?
確かに!下田はお散歩が気持ちいい場所です。 ウォーキングにサーフィン、とても健康的な過ごし方をされていますね。 下田に滞在中にお仕事(ワーケーション)はしますか? "Certainly! Shimoda is indeed a delightful place for a stroll. Walking and surfing make for a very healthy combination. Q: Do you engage in any work (workation) while staying in Shimoda?"
"While engaged in a remote-friendly job, you deliberately refrain from working in Shimoda, opting to use it as an opportunity to unwind. However, when necessary, you can still progress with work in Shimoda. Such a dual-location lifestyle seems appealing, providing a sense of flexibility. Q: I'd love to learn more about the lodging business you are currently operating in Shimoda. Beyond the dual-location lifestyle, I'm curious to know the reasons behind starting a lodging business in Shimoda."
そして今年の2月には新たに大型新築民泊施設もオープン予定だそうです。 昨今民泊業は人気の業種です。興味のある方も多いはず、 ぜひ宿泊業をやってみての良い経験、悪い経験を教えてください。 "And in February of this year, a new large-scale, newly built accommodation is set to open. Amazingly, it comes with an ocean view swimming pool! Q: With the lodging business gaining popularity in recent times, many people are likely interested. Could you please share both positive and negative experiences from running a lodging business, for those who might consider venturing into it?"
素晴らしい、実に下田の特性をわかっていますね! 私も下田に移住して十数年、この心得は常に気にしています。 都会のように便利でスピーディーにはなかなか物事を進められないけれど、人間関係を大切にすることで通常より何倍も良くなることがある。 本当にそんなことが多い土地です。 メリット、デメリットを理解して尊重する。 どこの地方にも特性はあります、それが地方の短所でもあり長所でもありますよね。 "You truly understand the characteristics of Shimoda! Having lived in Shimoda for over a decade, I'm always mindful of this insight. While it may not be as convenient and speedy as the city, prioritizing interpersonal relationships often leads to outcomes that are several times better than usual. It's indeed a place where understanding and respecting both the advantages and disadvantages, and recognizing the unique characteristics of each region, are crucial. Every region has its own set of qualities, which can be both shortcomings and strengths."
下田の未来についても一緒に考え、良くしようと思いがあるアレックスさんの宿泊事業のizu stayのゴールは? "Q: To think and make action for Shimoda’s future, what is your ultimate “Izu Stay” goal as a lodging business owner?"
ピリっとビジネスマンの一面をみせつつ、 最後は下田の町と地元の人を本当にリスペクトしている締めくくりで、なんだかとても嬉しくなりました。 "While revealing a sharp business perspective, your genuine respect for Shimoda's town and its local residents at the end is truly heartening." インタビューご協力、 ありがとうございました。 "Thank you very much for your cooperation in this interview."