Vibhuti and Jesu, the dynamic duo behind EscapewithVJ, spill the beans on their exhilarating life as travel bloggers. With globetrotting experiences and a penchant for the extraordinary, their tales will leave you yearning for your next adventure.
Excerpts
What’s the quirkiest souvenir you’ve ever brought back from a travel destination?
In Spain, we found ourselves amidst the tomato mayhem of La Tomatina, a festival that’s like Holi with tomatoes instead of colors. After the chaotic tomato toss, our t-shirts were a mess, so we decided to frame them as a quirky keepsake. It’s a reminder that even the messiest moments can turn into cherished memories!
Share a travel blogging mishap where things made for an interesting and unforgettable experience.
Our first trek to Nag Tibba in India was anything but smooth. I (Vibhuti) realized I was not quite the outdoor enthusiast, struggling for breath within an hour. A freezing night in a tent with no blankets followed. To our surprise, our trek guide announced a 3 AM start. Picture us, sleep-deprived, in the pitch-dark forest! It was a hilarious and exhausting adventure, but the breathtaking mountain view at the summit made it unforgettable. We might even go trekking again – soon, we hope!
Describe a time when you had a cultural misunderstanding while traveling, and how did you handle it in a humorous way?
This one’s from Jesu’s Japan trip. A colleague took him to an Onsen (a hot spring), where nudity is non-negotiable. Imagine Jesu’s embarrassment as he disrobed to soak in the hot bath with his colleague! It was awkward, but it’s all part of the rich tapestry of cultural experiences. Laughter got him through it, and it’s now a hilarious memory.
What sparked your love for travel blogging, and how do you choose your destinations to explore and feature on your blog?
Our passion for travel naturally led us to create EscapewithVJ. Choosing destinations is an adventure in itself; we balance iconic spots with offbeat gems. Our aim is to inspire fellow travelers and make their planning smoother.
Can you describe a typical day when you’re traveling for your blog?
Our days kick off early to beat the crowds. We juggle between Instagram and YouTube content, making our mornings quite hectic. Afternoons are for more exploration, while evenings are dedicated to engaging with our audience, replying to messages, and editing our content. It’s a packed day, but it’s our passion!
What are some of the most rewarding and challenging aspects of being a travel blogger?
The thrill comes from connecting with people worldwide who appreciate our work. However, it’s not all glamour; often, we find ourselves working on vacation. Editing videos alongside our 9-5 jobs can be a juggling act, but it’s worth every moment.
How do you approach cultural sensitivity and responsible travel while sharing your experiences with your audience?
We dive deep into the history and culture of the places we visit before sharing our content. Our mission is to promote responsible travel, leaving only footprints of memories and not litter. It’s essential to preserve the beauty of our planet.
