Rashi Choudhary is a travel influencer who loves to visit places she has seen in Bollywood movies. She calls herself a 'Family Travel and Lifestyle Content Creator' and has over 245K+ followers on Instagram. Her experience in travelling and engaging content helps her audience live their bucket list and inspires them to travel and enjoy memorable journeys together.
In an interview with ABP Live, Rashi talks about her travel diaries, her opinion on Indian culture, her favourite destinations and so much more.
Here are some excerpts from the interview:
Why do you call yourself a family travel and lifestyle content creator?
I refer to myself as a family travel and lifestyle content creator because my content primarily focuses on sharing experiences, advice, and insights related to family-friendly travel destinations, travel tips for families, and various aspects of family life, which makes it easier for my audience to connect with my content and know what to expect from my platform.
In your opinion what is Indian culture all about?
Indian culture is incredibly diverse and rich, making it a captivating subject for travelling- Cultural Diversity, Historical Significance, Art and Craftsmanship, Spirituality, Festivals and Celebrations. By highlighting these aspects of Indian culture in my travel content, I try to provide a holistic view of what makes India a fascinating and culturally enriching destination for travellers.
You choose to feature locations mentioned in Bollywood movies- why did you come up with such an idea?
Many travellers are inspired by movies to visit the places they’ve seen on the big screen. They often incorporate local culture, festivals, and traditions, providing a deeper cultural context for my travel content.
How do you feel when you visit destinations you have seen in movies?
When I visit destinations I've seen in movies, I often experience a unique blend of excitement and familiarity which I want to showcase to my audience also. It's like stepping into the cinematic world that I've admired on the screen. There's a sense of wonder and nostalgia as I recognise iconic locations, and it adds an extra layer of joy to my travel experience, knowing I'm exploring places that have played a role in some of my favourite films. My followers love my content when I showcase them such places. Bhedaghat and Rann of Kutch are the recent ones.
Which is your favourite destination and why?
Every destination I've been fortunate to explore holds a special place for me. However, recently, Spiti and Dubai have taken the top spots. Spiti's breathtaking landscapes, amicable inhabitants, and profound culture always leave me in awe. On the other hand, Dubai is a tapestry of love, beauty, and history, never failing to invigorate my senses. The charm of these two destinations, so distinct yet equally captivating, is truly unparalleled in my heart.
How does it feel like interacting with new people every time you visit a destination?
Interacting with new people each time I visit a destination is an incredibly enriching experience. It’s akin to opening a treasure chest of diverse cultures and stories. Every conversation is filled with anticipation and curiosity as I delve into the local way of life, customs, and traditions.
Meeting fellow travellers creates an instant bond as we exchange experiences and travel tips, fostering a sense of community on the road. Engaging with locals is where the true magic happens; it provides an authentic window into their culture, often leading to unforgettable encounters and, sometimes, lifelong friendships.
These interactions are an integral part of my travel journey, adding depth and colour to my experiences, and they form the heart of the stories I share with my audience.
Any memorable incident in such a travel diary?
Certainly, as a travel content creator, one of my most cherished memories was during a visit to a remote Himalayan village. While capturing the stunning landscapes and local life, I stumbled upon a vibrant village festival. The villagers, with their warm smiles, invited me to join in the celebrations.
I found myself immersed in traditional dances, savouring delicious local cuisine, and even lending a hand with festival preparations. It was an unexpected and deeply enriching experience that left a lasting impression on my travel diary. This encounter not only made for captivating content to share with my audience but also forged a genuine connection with the local culture and people, making it a memory I'll always treasure.
Can you share some tips to keep in mind before setting out for solo travel?
The thrill of being a content creator lies in the planning. I immerse myself in thorough research, understanding the ethos of the places I'm about to visit. Engaging with my followers beforehand, and incorporating their suggestions, keeps my content vibrant and interactive. My guiding principles for fellow content creators: be genuine, consistent, inquisitive, and most importantly, true to your essence.
What are the unique dishes that you have tried while visiting places?
I am a pure vegetarian, my current best dish is the one I tried on the 122nd floor of Burj Khalifa was Tofu Pupusas (Stuffed corn tortillas filled with various vegetarian ingredients) Mushroom Risotto (Switzerland): Creamy rice dish cooked with mushrooms, and onions, and cheese and Dolma, while Lajpat nagar momos are my all-time favourite.
Any challenges you have faced in your journey? How did you overcome them?
As a travel content creator, I've faced several challenges, including maintaining content quality on the go, diversifying my content, and building an engaged audience. I've overcome these by refining my skills, strategic planning, and regular interaction with followers. Monetisation, logistics, and adapting to industry changes have been challenges I've tackled through diversifying income sources, meticulous planning, and adaptability. To prevent burnout, I prioritise self-care and downtime. Throughout, I've remained authentic by sharing genuine experiences and being transparent with my audience.
Sustainability in travel is becoming increasingly important. How do you promote eco-friendly practices in your content?
Sustainability holds a special place in my heart when it comes to my travel adventures. It's not just a checkbox; it's a commitment. I believe in endorsing eco-friendly accommodations because I want my stays to align with my values of environmental responsibility. But it's more than that. It's about the people and places. I actively seek out local ventures because I want to contribute to the communities I visit. I want to leave a positive mark, not just in the memories of my travels but in the lives of those I encounter along the way. And I'm on a constant journey of learning, not just for myself but for my followers too. Responsible tourism isn't a static concept; it evolves. So, I'm continually educating myself and my community on how we can make a real, positive impact while treading lightly on this beautiful planet we call home."