Rachel E T Davies
Rachel E T Davies is a British travel and lifestyle editor, writer, and photographer based in Lisbon, Portugal, working internationally. Her practice spans travel, culture, craftsmanship, and hospitality, with a focus on visually led storytelling that combines strong narrative, atmosphere, and a sense of place. She is open to working on freelance writing and photography projects across both editorial and commercial contexts.
Rachel’s path into the creative industries was shaped by an unconventional academic beginning. After studying Neuroscience (BSc) and Translational Neuroimaging (MSc) at the University of Nottingham, she chose to step away from research in favour of a more creative, people-led career. She went on to work in PR, events, and marketing within the luxury spirits and champagne sector, primarily with start-up distilleries alongside larger clients such as Moët Hennessy. This period sharpened her eye for detail, brand storytelling, and the entrepreneurial environments that continue to inform her work today.
An early love of travel and nature underpins much of Rachel’s creative practice. From high-fell walking in the Lake District to exploring the rainforests of Borneo, she developed a lasting connection to landscape and place. She is a self-taught photographer and writer, known for her distinctive narrative voice and emotive visual style, well suited to long-form storytelling and thoughtful, design-led work.
Rachel has lived and worked internationally, including in Kyoto, Lisbon, London, Edinburgh, and Tampa. Her work has appeared in Condé Nast Traveler, Lodestars Anthology, The Japan Times, Suitcase Magazine, Asia Tatler, and more, and she has produced both editorial and commercial content for organisations including UNESCO World Heritage, Four Seasons Hotels, Visit Japan, Visit Nara, Shimane Prefecture Tourism Board, and other destination and cultural clients.
While living in Kyoto, Rachel founded STORIED, an independent magazine inspired by the people, places, crafts, and culture of Japan. As founder and editor, she led all aspects of the publication across print and digital platforms, from commissioning and writing to photography, art direction, and design.
Through STORIED and her freelance work, Rachel has developed a nuanced understanding of materiality, spatial flow, and design intention. This experience strongly informs her approach to interiors, hotels, and travel subjects, with close attention to light, texture, and the human presence that brings spaces to life. She is available for freelance assignments and collaborations worldwide.