FACT meets one of the best known travel influencers in Bahrain…

How did you get started in the world of travel?
My passion for travelling started when I was a kid. First, I fell in love with anything related to aviation and airports, then the more I travelled, the more I realised that travelling is just my thing. I remember so well how my dad took me to all the art and history museums in different cities and showed me at a young age the different cultures in other places. But I have to say the turning point was when I was 16 and doing a solo trip to the UK. That experience taught me so much. I would say travelling alone is as an almost religious experience. To take in new surroundings unfiltered by the prejudices, tastes, or preferences of a travelling companion changes everything. It gives you the chance to discover yourself fully. This is one of the main reasons why I love travelling so much. I learn something new about myself every time. But also the impact of my previous job in the media and journalism made me travel a lot, which gave me a rich experience.

Do you prefer beach, city or culture holidays?
I can’t say No to beach holidays, but I prefer culture holidays. To me, culture holidays are a great opportunity to learn more about the country that I am visiting. Plus, I love the exploring and adventurous side of it too.

Where is your favourite place to travel on a budget?
My favourite places to travel on a budget are Algarve and Sagres in south Portugal. Both are known for their beautiful Atlantic beaches and golf resorts.

How did you know you had ‘made it’ as travel influencers?
Three years ago, when I was visiting the French Rivera (Côte d’Azur), I decided to go public as a travel influencer. But then really becoming a travel influencer is something that happened when I went to Sri Lanka and joined other travel influencers in posting stories and podcasts live, moment by moment. From there on I started my journey as an active influencer.

When you are on location do you have a strict routine?
Actually, no. But it also depends on the kind of trip that I do. It is important that I adjust myself to the place that I am visiting. I usually love solo trips, but sometimes I need to join other groups to complete my work on a certain time — this often forces me into a specific routine.

What are your top 3 travel tips?
Always bring extra batteries for devices. Make extra copies of your passport and important documents like telephone numbers. Don’t bring too much baggage.

Have you had to cancel travel plans due to Covid-19?
Absolutely. I was just planning my next trip to Europe when the news started to report the many cases in Europe. First, I postponed everything, but now obviously I had to cancel it completely.

How do you think Covid-19 has affected the future of travel?

Well, with all the aeroplanes on the ground, hotels closed and travel restrictions, it’s safe to say that travel and tourism are definitely the most affected sectors. I think nobody can really tell what the future of travelling will look like. It depends on how the outbreak develops. I hope for the best.

Have you visited anywhere that you would want return to over and over again?
Oh yes, many places around the world. Mauritius in the Indian Ocean and Ronda which is located on the top of a mountain in Malaga province in Spain.

As soon as it is safe to travel, where is next on your list?
I am not sure if we will be able to travel normally this year, but as soon as it’s safe to travel, I will visit Norway, Bhutan and Tajikistan.

If you were given an open ticket to travel anywhere in the world where would you choose and why?
That’s an easy one! I would choose Cuba and South America. I love the Latino culture and history, including the Spanish language.