Q&A: Enrique Ruiz de Lera, Director,National Tourist Office of Spain (S'pore)

What was the last thing on your mind before you dozed off last night?

My next two trips. I am going Hong Kong to catch the HK Sevens and to India to promote Costa del Sol as a premium holiday destination for the Indians.

How Singaporean are you now?

I have been in Singapore nearly three years now although I spend most of the time travelling around the region. However, I can safely say that I become a true “Singaporean” when it comes to the local dishes.

What is your favourite dish?

Definitely fried kwai teow and seafood hor fun.

If you were a literary character, who would you be?

I would choose Captain Nemo because I am always keen to explore new worlds and experience different sorts ofadventures. And as a diver, I have always been fascinated with the sea.

How did you get into the NTO circuit?

I always wanted to work in an international environment, meeting people from different countries, cultural backgrounds and speaking different languages. The tourism industry fits all of these factors in for me.Furthermore, Spain is a beautiful product to sell – the food, the culture, the architecture and arts.

What do people always say about Spain that isn’t true at all?

There is not one side of Spain but many. For example, Madrid has its own personality compared to Seville or Barcelona – which leads to many views of this complex and multi-faceted country.Nevertheless, I believe there is alwaysa bit of truth in every cliché.

When do you feel happiest in doing what you are doing now?

When my job gives me the opportunity to meet extremely interesting people from all kind of places, backgrounds and professions.

What do you always bring with you wherever you go?

A book, music and my sport gear.

When was the last time you visited Spain?

I returned to my hometown Madrid last February for business.