During the OpusXmediabeast “influencers campaign” we virtually interviewed some talented and amazing influencers who are creating an interconnection between Pakistan and the Global world.
We interviewed Irfan Ahmad about his travel journeys, his social media journey and how these two incredible aspects of his life are loved by his audience globally. His blog features bilingual content which many find relevant and interesting.
He had some enlightening answers to our questions. Give it a read!
How would you briefly define your experience as a blogger so far? Share your journey with us.
I never categorize myself as an influencer or as a blogger. I love travelling and storytelling. Whenever I return from a trip, even if it is to a local place, I can’t help myself telling a story about it and penning it down. And that’s how I started my social media presence to share my stories with others so that they can make use of them. Along the journey, I started many side ventures like talking on social issues, taboos in our society around men, parenting and talking on unorthodox issues. If you call it blogging then yes, Its been great so far, and I found myself connected with the audience, and the level of engagement is promising.
What/who became your inspiration for travel blogging?
I did not start blogging, inspired by someone. However, Once I started, I followed mostly National Geography travel photographers and Taimoor Salahudding aka Mooro from Pakistan
Has blogging increased your passion or love for travelling?
It certainly did. Ever since I joined various Instagram pages, it ignited my passion for travelling, and I want to witness those places from my own eyes.
How do you perceive your impact on your audience? (nationwide or globally)
I have tried my best to make some space for Urdu safarnamay on Instagram, and the response is good so far. The audience for such reads on Facebook is already great, but to take it to the next level on Instagram is serious hard-work. I am trying!
Do you prefer posting pictures of your travel experiences or videos?
Combination of both.
What are some major travel tips you always give to your audience?
If you want to make most out of your trip, always do some research about the place you are visiting beforehand. It will save you not only money but time also.
For successful travel blogging, what aspects should be considered?
One must possess good storytelling skill, besides Basic photography knowledge and video editing. Most importantly, it would be best if you did some deep-dive about places you want to explore.
Which was that one trip you enjoyed most posting about?
Trip to Istanbul, Italy and Scotland.
Which platform do you prefer more for public interaction based on your audience?
Do fellow bloggers support each other in growing?
Sometimes, not always. It’s a hard reality to accept, but it is true.
How do you handle negativity on social media?
Ignoring negativity is the best way to handle it. You will lose your positive energy and motivation if you stick to any negative comments and try to defend yourself. It is your space, and you have all the rights to use it the you want. Do not change yourself for the sake of your audience. That’s my philosophy. Remember your audience will find you and adjust to your niche, rather other way round.
How do you react to the judgmental and negative followers?
I think I addressed this already in the previous question. You learn to ignore and move on.
During your trips, are you always connected to the internet to be active on your blog?
I take pics for the blog, make points for storytelling and then enjoy my trip for the rest of the time. So, I do not always be online on my blog during trips
Do you keep track of every little detail while travelling?
I try to, but it is not always possible. At the time I take notes and sometimes it stays in my head. Pictures do help to recall your trip and details around it.
Do you consider the number of followers important for a successful blog?
No, Engagements is what matters the most.
Any advice or suggestion for upcoming travel bloggers and influences:
Be unique, create your own space and do not copy someone. Most importantly, do not change who you are for your audience. Your audience will find you.
Good to know more about you irfan bhai
Always enjoy his travel stories full of information and insight regarding all the places he visit. Keep up the good work!
Interesting interview !! Indeed he has his own individuality and consistent passion about contribution to blog that is keeping it up.
All the best
MashAllah mashAllah irfan bhai @irfanstraveldiary , our lahori brother showing us the world through his beautiful lenses more power to u