10 Travelers of the PNW: Anya Watson

Anya Watson, 22

University of Washington (English and philosophy double major)

Hometown: I was born in Portland, Oregon, but I’ve lived in the greater Seattle area since I was 9. I also lived in Corona, California, for 2 years when I was in preschool.

Hobbies: Playing guitar, bass, and piano; drawing, painting, crocheting, cooking, running, and hiking.

What is your relation to the Pacific Northwest?

I have lived most of my life in the Pacific Northwest and consider it to be my home. Although I’ve traveled to 16 different countries and to states all over the U.S., the PNW is still my favorite region. I love the weather, the culture, and the environment.

Why is travel important to you? (What do you travel for?)

Travel is important to me because it allows me to see and experience different cultures, which I feel has made me into a more well-rounded and open-minded person. Also, it allows me to explore and try out lots of new things, which is fun and exhilarating. In this way, traveling prevents me from settling into a boring routine and pushes me out of my comfort zone (in a good way)!

What is your most memorable travel experience? How has it impacted your life and future travels?

One of my most memorable travel experiences was visiting Xi’an, China, when I was in high school. Xi’an is my mother’s hometown and I also have many relatives living there, such as my grandpa. It was an amazing experience getting to visit the places where my mother used to live as a child and connecting with my extended family. After that trip, I felt a deeper connection to my Chinese roots and had a better understanding of my family history.

How would you describe your travel style? Are you a meticulous planner or a go-with-the-flow kind of traveler? What are some best practices you have learned to help you travel as best you can in your own way?

I probably fall somewhere in between a meticulous planner and a go-with-the-flow kind of traveler. When I travel to a new place, I want to make sure that I get to see all the marvelous sights that are there, which does require some planning. At the same time, though, I don’t want it to be a stressful experience where I plan everything down to the minute.

How does coming “home” (wherever or whatever that may be) feel after you travel?

Coming home after traveling has always been a very joyful experience for me. Even though I love traveling and seeing new places, I find that I have a new appreciation for my home every time I get back from somewhere else. Then, of course, after a couple months of being home I long to travel again…

What are your future travel plans?

Given that we are currently in a global pandemic, it’s hard to know when we will all be able to safely travel once more. But when it does become safe, I’d like to visit Greece. I’ve never been, but it looks so beautiful in pictures. Plus, I am a fan of Greek mythology and ancient Greek philosophers.

How has the PNW helped shape who you are?

The culture of the PNW has influenced both my personality and interests. Lots of people complain about the “Seattle freeze,” this belief that people in Seattle are less friendly and just generally standoffish. I actually prefer this atmosphere, because I am more introverted by nature, and I secretly detest small talk and pleasantries. The PNW also has an incredible music and arts scene. Being around such creative people all the time has given me an affinity for making music and art. Lastly, the breathtaking physical beauty of the PNW has cultivated in me a love of nature and outdoor activities, like hiking.

If you were to describe the PNW in three words, what would they be and why?

Drizzly (because it's so often raining), artsy (because there is such a robust arts scene), green (both regarding environmental-friendliness and the main color of the landscapes)!