What’s Jani so excited about? Is it that his Blind video part is about to release (May 7)? The fact he gets to travel to world? That he’s traded out Finish clouds for San Diego sunshine? Yeah, with all that going on, he’s pumped. What right-minded male wouldn’t be?

In all, Jani’s pleased with pretty much everything going on right now. In the current climate of the cool guy who’s perpetually “over it”, DC Europe’s Jani Laitiala is a welcome relief. He brightens your day just like that.

You’ve been all over the place for the last three months. Give us the laundry list of countries.
I needed a relaxing vacation! So, I went to Brazil for two months—I went to the beach and chilled for a month, then to the city for a month. I just skated around Sao Paulo with a bunch of guys, and enjoyed the nice summer. After that, I went to Europe. I took my chick to meet my mom, and then went to Barcelona for a couple of weeks to film a little bit more for the Blind Video, since Bill Weiss said we had more time. I got one thing, and it was my last trick for the video.

So you’re telling us your part’s all done?
Yep! I finished my part, and it’s coming out May 7.

Your scenario is funny: from Finland, live in the USA, and chick in Brazil. How does all that even work?
I don’t know! I’m trying to get her to come up here to the states.

How often do you get back home to Finland?
Before this last trip, it was a half a year since I’d been home to see my mom and family.

What do you miss the most?
Good food, good friends, and good candy. Best candy and chocolate!

Tell us what you San Diego life is like.
It’s good! I live with Jimmy Astleford for a couple more days, then I move into my own place in Encinitas. I love the sunshine and the skate spots.

What’s been the best skate trip you’ve been on with DC so far?
It’s definitely the Hawaii trip. Lindsey, Greg Myers, Wes. Everybody was just so positive, and that made it a good trip. It was so nice all day: wake up, go for a little swim, have some breakfast, then everybody goes and skates. Then back to the hotel, another swim, and more food. The mahi mahi sandwiches are amazing!

With all that good stuff having just happened, what are you looking forward to the most coming up?
I’m really looking forward to the next DC King of’s, especially Moscow. I’ve been there once before, and I know it’s just so good for skating. Marble ledges and perfect ground and curbs everywhere! After that, there’s King of Rome and King of Dublin. I’ve never been to those spots, even though I’ve lived in Europe my whole life. I can’t wait! It’s going to be exciting!