Meet Carla Henríquez: surfer, photographer and nature advocate.
Carla is a photographer, surfer and nature advocate based in Canary Islands. We were lucky to have a great conversation with her about her passion for surfing, how she tries to maintain a healthy and sustainable lifestyle and her tips on how to visit the Canary Islands in the most respectful way possible.
Tell us a bit about your passion for surfing. How and when did you start?
The first time I went surfing was 12 years ago. After a breakup, I decided to start doing things that I truly enjoyed.
What attracts you so much to it?
Surfing allows me to be in the ocean for a long time, and the ocean makes me feel good. Being in contact with saltwater and the marine environment makes me feel like no matter what's happening in the world, everything is okay. The sea is where I feel like myself.
What emotions does surfing evoke in you?
Freedom, calmness, a feeling of being at home, of being safe and secure.
What are your favorite surf destinations?
Australia, Nicaragua and Indonesia.
What specific actions do you take to reduce your environmental impact in your day-to-day life?
Well, I try to improve every day. I believe that if you make improvements wherever you can, you're already doing something. A little from everyone adds up to something significant.
In my case, I try to avoid plastic as much as possible, especially single-use plastics. I bring my reusable bags to the supermarket, I don't use gloves but rather use a cloth bag to handle things, and so on. Additionally, when I buy any cosmetics, I always make sure they are sustainable and cruelty-free. If they are solid or refillable, even better.
Another important thing for me is my attitude when I'm out and about. If I go to a natural place, I leave it as I found it. I believe we have to take care of the few natural places that are left on the islands.
I believe I've always been sensitized to the importance of caring for the planet because I come from a family of scientists; my father, in particular, is a biologist. They always taught me how important nature is for us. Furthermore, the countryside and the sea have always made me feel good. How could I not want to protect it?
A Quick catch Up!:)
What do you do on a Sunday afternoon?
Go to the beach with my partner and my child, surf, and play together.
If you could only eat one thing for the rest of your life, what would it be?
Avocado.
Drink that makes you the happiest.
Cold water with lemon.
First thing you do when you wake up in the morning.
Check my phone (shame on me, it's something I want to change).
Recent favorite trip you've taken?
Morocco with the family. We had such a great time!
Favorite part of the Canary Islands.
Everything!
Tips for visiting the Canary Islands in a more sustainable and respectful way.
Avoid all-inclusive hotels at all costs. They are not good for the islands and harm our nature. Stay in a small place, visit the towns, eat local food, and ask locals about beautiful places to go.
That's a tough one! There are many, but I love @tiablanco.
Favorite HAAN product?
All of them :) But I think I can't live without the hand sanitizers and the prebiotic body wash.
