Wellness month and hobbies – how do our experience creators spend their free time? Visual beauty
2024-11-19T11:13:24
As part of the Wellness Month, we continue introducing our employees’ hobbies, which help keep their minds sharp and moods good, creating the best experiences for our guests in a pleasant atmosphere.
Irina Smirnoff, Chef at Tallink City Hotel
What is your hobby?
Tour guiding.
How did you find your way to tour guiding?
I studied at the Tallinn Guide School.
What makes guiding enjoyable for you, and what added value does it bring to your life?
I love sharing knowledge about the history of our country and bringing joy to people through it.
What is the most memorable experience you have had with guiding?
The most memorable experiences are the tours with children.
What would you recommend to someone who wants to start tour guiding but is hesitant to take the first step?
If you are interested, it is definitely worth studying!
Ando Lill, Head Chef at Restaurant Nero
What is your hobby?
Folk dancing! This season has been so busy that I have not had much time to dance. Next season, I hope to take it up again with my wife, who is my dance partner. For now, I keep fit at the gym.
How did you discover folk dancing?
I found folk dancing in the 6th grade when our school started a folk dance group. Our class teacher was the dance instructor, and thanks to her, I caught the dance bug. I danced until the end of school, then took a little break before joining the Laulasmaa group.
What makes folk dancing enjoyable for you, and what added value does it bring to your life?
Social interaction, moving, and coordination are very important to me in life. And the various shapes and patterns, which are also important in cooking. With each year, the training sessions are getting bolder, we trust and understand each other better. All those lifts and throws – I trust my partner as much as my own five fingers!
What is your most memorable experience with folk dancing?
The most memorable experience is definitely the Song and Dance Festival. I have attended five dance festivals, including three men’s festivals. Performing takes years of effort – when we move in rhythm and breathe together, the emotion is something special, and knowing that we can bring joy to the audience adds extra value.
What would you recommend to someone who wants to try folk dancing but is hesitant to take the first step?
Just take your first (dance) step, it’s that simple!
Attend a dance festival as a spectator to get the emotion, and when that wonderful feeling calls you, join a rehearsal to catch the dance bug. There are few men in the dance groups, so they are very valued. Just gather your courage, take the first steps, learn a couple of moves, and it will start coming together.
And if you’re scared to go alone, bring a friend, a partner, or your significant other – it’s easier that way!