Eline van Nunen

If I could choose anyone to sit next to on a plane, I would pick Sonja Barend – the ‘Queen of the Dutch Talkshow’, master interviewer and tv presenter. As a copywriter, editor and PR specialist, Sonja’s interview style and her ability to deeply connect with her talkshow guests have been a reel source of inspiration for me.

I admire how Sonja Barend transforms genuine conversations into new insights and new ways to see the world around us, something I strive to do in my own work too. She was a fierce advocate for minorities who confronted discrimination and difficult social issues, often holding up a mirror to Dutch society. Her interviews brought overlooked problems into the spotlight and opened many eyes. She treated her guests as equals with an open mind and she paved the way for today’s well- known female interviewers and talkshow hosts. A true role model.

On a personal level, sitting next to Sonja Barend would be more than just a chance to pick her brain about interviewing; it would feel like sharing a moment with a mentor who influenced my journey until today. Her authenticity, genuine interest in people and perspective on the world remind me why I love connecting with people: from a CEO to a dishwasher, everybody has a story that deserves to be told.

My favourite travel buddy is my husband. He is always in a good mood, stays calm when I feel a bit stressed (while packing our suitcases, rushing for boarding our flight, trying to find a restaurant on a busy evening..) and he loves to explore nice places to eat, try local food and strolling morning markets, just like I do. Our travels are tasty journeys from departure to arrival, and back! And of course, our two children are our two favourite travel companions

If I would be a destination, I would be Südtirol in Italy: the Italian flair, love for life, good food, sunny days and personal connections in combination with Austrian ‘gemutlichkeit’ and grounded lifestyle.