Jana- Barcelona
What is your skincare routine, and how has it evolved?
My skincare routine is very easy—not very elaborate. First, I wash my face with a non-fragrant soap. Then, I use a day cream with vitamin C in it. I like to use facial rollers that I keep in the fridge. If I use makeup, I like to keep it light because I don’t like the feeling of anything heavy on my face. I use some form of sun cream, whether on its own or mixed in with makeup.
Do you have a go-to skincare product that you can't live without? Why is it your favorite?
The Ordinary Coverage foundation which was unfortunately discontinued- hoping they bring it back! It’s weightless and honestly a cult favorite amongst myself and friends.
What’s your favorite beauty tip or secret you’ve learned from others or discovered yourself?
If you don’t want to wear a full face of makeup, just put some brighteners on your eyelids and lipstick. I travel a lot, so I often don’t have much with me. Also, sometimes, I use my lipstick as my eyeshadow. Finally, if your face tolerates oil, use a little carrot oil to add a tan and moisture.
How do you balance your busy lifestyle with self-care? What are your favorite rituals for maintaining your well-being?
I like to use Tibetan singing bowls. The sounds and vibrations are incredibly calming, and I sleep well afterward. Writing is also paramount to my well-being—getting my thoughts on paper makes me feel much lighter. Being in nature is also very grounding for me. Finally, anything performance-oriented, like dance or singing, is very healing.
Who is a woman that has inspired you, and what did you learn from her?
My female inspiration is my previous boss, the founder of a travel agency in Buenos Aires. I did an internship with her and learned so much. I learned what it means to be a business owner- she is a go-getter, ambitious, intelligent, self-sufficient, and hands-on. While she was hands-on, she gave me a lot of autonomy, motivating me to do the best work possible. Her willingness to trust me and field my ideas and thoughts was admirable and inspiring. She’s not only a business owner, though. She’s a visionary. She is one of the most creative people I’ve ever met. During my internship with her, we worked on a children’s book, set up a treasure hunt for travelers, organized a pop-up market for Afro-Argentine Day, developed new tour products, set up sustainable food and art tours, and organized a queer history tour. I learned the power of creativity in your chosen workspace and saw how fulfilling it can be.
Can you share some advice that has significantly impacted your life?
One super important thing is always to ask questions. Everyone tends to assume so many things. Ask to understand and leave your judgments/ perceptions out of conclusions.
What are your mantras or affirmations that keep you motivated and grounded?
Have trust in yourself. Whenever I doubt myself or feel nervous, I remind myself of what I’ve done in the past and remember that I am capable.
Coolest travel experience?
Hiking up to the Acatenango Volcano in Guatemala. It was a grueling 5.5-hour hike up a steep hill. Once we reached the top of the hill, arriving around nightfall, we pitched tents. We didn’t sleep at all. Instead, we stayed up watching the neighboring Fuego Volcano erupt all night. Watching vibrant red lava exploding into the dark sky was an incredible experience. I even get goosebumps talking about it now. As the sun rose, we hiked another 1.5 hours to reach another viewpoint where we could see three more volcanos. It was a beautifully magical experience that I would recommend to anyone.
What was it like growing up in Germany, and how has it shaped you into who you are today?
I’m from a village of 2,300 people. It was a very safe, stable community. My parents raised me to be independent and taught me the importance of earning my own things. This instilled a level of appreciation that I’m grateful for today. Much of my childhood was spent playing in nature, which has also helped me today—it reminds me not to sweat the small stuff. Life is a lot bigger than what you’re worried about one day- the world is vast and beautiful.
What are your favorite hidden gems in the city as a new Barcelona habitant?
I haven’t been here long, so I don’t have too many yet, but one place that comes to mind is the Argentinian beach. It’s a bit further away from the main areas, but it’s worth a visit—you’ll see tons of locals drinking yerba mate and enjoying the sunset.
If you could describe your aura or energy in a color, what would it be and why?
The rainbow? Something multicolored because I can be many different versions of myself.
What’s a hobby or passion that people might not know about?
I think many people don’t know that I’m a singer because I only share it in certain settings, like at a jam session, or a special occasion. I also paint sometimes, depending on what’s happening in my life.
What’s next for you, and what are you most looking forward to?
I’m going to give Barcelona some time while I work on my studies to see if I want to stay here long term. I am considering moving to somewhere a bit more rural, with more nature accessible. I want to build my career around my current sutides, something within the intersection of anthropology and tourism. I also really want to be '“hybrid”- I want the flexibility to be able to move around, spend time in Germany- things like that.
Connect with Jana
Instagram: @jana.j.d