Yes, Japan. I wasn’t expecting the people to be too friendly but the Japanese were super humble and even though English isn’t the first language they go out of their way to help others, this surprised me.
Retro Kolkata : First of all, thanks a lot for accepting our invitation for an interview. It's a great pleasure to have you as our Guest. Let’s start with the first question… Let's jump into the past. How did you get started with travelling? What inspired you to start travelling?
Sana : As a child, my family often took us for holidays in and around India, but as we grew older travelling internationally became easier due to the ease of the internet which eventually helped me to understand more about different cultures, and places and this enthusiasm made me study travel and tourism. This ultimately became my passion, to discover the world.
Retro Kolkata : How did you decide to become a travel blogger & influencer?
Sana : I didn’t actually, it just fell into place. I loved to share my tips on travelling, sharing hidden gems and talking about unique destinations which essentially led me to my first few press trips but even before that travelling just came secondarily to me.
Retro Kolkata : What are some of your favourite places you’ve visited?
Sana : I loved visiting Finland due to its dynamic landscape and Australia because of its closeness to Mother Nature, and lastly New York due to its fun city vibe!
Retro Kolkata : How do you fund your travel (savings/work whilst travelling/other)?
Sana : I work hard and save for my travels, look out for catchy deals and sometimes even reach out to brands which I can relate to and who would love to collaborate with me as well.
Retro Kolkata : Have you ever travelled solo, was it what you expected?
Sana : Yes, I have but I do not enjoy it as I love to share the experience with my family and there is no other joy than to be surrounded by your loved ones on a great holiday.
Retro Kolkata : Have you been anywhere which turned out to be different to how you imagined? If so, how?
Sana : Yes, Japan. I wasn’t expecting the people to be too friendly but the Japanese were super humble and even though English isn’t the first language they go out of their way to help others, this surprised me.
Retro Kolkata : What destination(s) would you recommend to first-time travellers?
Sana : Italy, I love the food, and the people, and there is so much to see and do. You can never go wrong with it.
Retro Kolkata : Tell us about one of your most memorable adventures, and the impact it had on you.
Sana : I am not a person who loves car rides but driving across America and seeing how distinct each place is made me want to do road trips more often. I would highly recommend a trip there, and hopefully, it's my dream to drive across all 50 states.
My drive from Los Angeles to San Francisco is very special and close to my heart, we did the drive for over two days, saw some fantastic places and ate delicious food.
Retro Kolkata : How has travel changed who you are? What has travel taught you?
Sana : It has taught me to be more grounded and also to see how different we as people are, but one thing which has been a bonding factor with strangers in different places is the food, it connects us.
I have also learned to be calmer and enjoy the moment then rushing with the time.
Retro Kolkata : Where is your favourite place in the world? Do you have a bucket list? If so, what is on it?
Sana : There are many places which I love but currently, I would like to go back to Australia, loved the country, and the balance between the city and nature.
My three bucket list places currently are South Korea, Iceland and South Africa.
Retro Kolkata : Blogging is increasingly becoming competitive. Do you think it will be a good choice for newbies to opt for travel blogging in 2022 and further?
Sana : If you are consistent and passionate about it, I would highly suggest you go for it and sooner or later you will see the rewards but be in it if you enjoy it and not for the sake of it.
Retro Kolkata : If you were to list the top 3 reasons for your success as a travel blogger, what would those be?
Sana : Consistency, Honesty, and dedication
Retro Kolkata : Do you have any advice or tips for aspiring travellers?
Sana : Start with travelling locally and documenting each of your trips and slowly move onto bigger destinations, also be consistent and honest with your followers as ultimately they are your audience.
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