Content Summary
- 1. When Did You Start Your Instagram Account?
- 2. Where Was Your First Travel Assignment?
- 3. Was There a Defining Moment or Image Where Your Followers Went Crazy?
- 4. At What Point Did You Realise Travelling the World Could Become a Profession?
- 5. Did You Ever Think Over 1 Million People Would Follow You?
- 6. What is the Future of Travel Blogging?
- 7. What Are the Top 5 Dream Destinations We Have to Visit?
Doesn’t everyone aspire to become a travel blogger? While reflecting in the GoTravelDaily office, captivated by the stunning travel imagery shared by lifestyle influencers, it’s challenging not to envision it as a remarkable profession: experiencing luxurious accommodations, savoring exquisite cuisines, enjoying services from award-winning spas, and embarking on adventures off the unbeaten path to capture the ideal photograph that circulates globally.
In response, we are initiating a biweekly series to gain insights into the travel blogging industry, and we couldn’t think of a more fitting guest to start with than the “Queen of Travel” – Sjana Elise Earp @sjanaelise.
WHEN DID YOU START YOUR INSTAGRAM ACCOUNT?
My account @sjanaelise is not my initial foray into Instagram. I once had an account approximately five years ago that swiftly amassed 55K followers; however, that account was subsequently compromised, taking me time to muster the confidence to establish another public account. I commenced @sjanaelise in November 2013 as a lifestyle/food/fitness/beach/yoga account. Subsequently, travel opportunities expanded due to the audience I was garnering, leading to a steady influx of travel assignments.
WHERE WAS YOUR FIRST TRAVEL ASSIGNMENT?
It occurred in February 2014. An international assembly of technological entrepreneurs and elite athletes known as Mai Tai invited me to serve as an intern photojournalist during their kiteboarding trip in Perth. The week was among the most enjoyable I have ever experienced, surrounded by approximately 20 other individuals in our shared accommodation. There were participants kiteboarding in costumes, I wakeboarded on someone’s back, the beach was adorned with bean bags and Red Bull massage tents, imbued with an exhilarating atmosphere. The entire week was replete with fun and unforgettable moments with remarkable individuals. Following this experience, other brands and travel organizations recognized the photographic and blogging work I produced with Mai Tai, initiating the travel domino effect.
WAS THERE A DEFINING MOMENT OR IMAGE WHERE YOUR FOLLOWERS WENT CRAZY?
Unfortunately, there was no defining moment. I wish I could recount a more captivating story, but it remains a rather uneventful tale. As my second account, it experienced rapid growth as individuals rediscovered and re-followed me. The Instagram landscape was notably different during that period; the “explore page” was essentially the “popular page,” with Instagram employing a formula to curate a selection of popular content updated hourly from around the globe. This formula allowed profiles with prevalent themes to easily appear on the popular page, resulting in thousands of new followers whenever a photo gained placement there.
AT WHAT POINT DID YOU REALISE TRAVELLING THE WORLD COULD BECOME A PROFESSION?
I still do not believe it has completely sunk in. I genuinely hold the best job in the world; that much is undeniable! It amazes me to consider how fortunate I am to align my work and passion seamlessly.
DID YOU EVER THINK OVER 1 MILLION PEOPLE WOULD FOLLOW YOU?
Absolutely not! I distinctly remember reaching 10k on my first account. (Transitioning from 9,999 to the esteemed 10K was monumental at that time). My mother inquired, “What’s next? 100k?” I laughed heartily and replied, “Maybe 50k. However, I don’t even believe that is feasible!”
WHAT IS THE FUTURE OF TRAVEL BLOGGING?
That’s an excellent inquiry! To be candid, I am uncertain. Nevertheless, I am eager to discover the possibilities. Perhaps a foray into television? It is plausible that several travel bloggers will transition into hosting travel shows, or perhaps a collective of travel photojournalists will collaborate to produce an extraordinary travel program. That would indeed be thrilling!
WHAT ARE THE TOP 5 DREAM DESTINATIONS WE HAVE TO VISIT?
1. MALDIVES
This is a destination everyone should experience at least once in their lifetime! The ocean showcases a hue I had never known existed. It’s nearly impossible not to fall in love and embrace the island pace.
2. BAHAMAS
My home away from home. The sand is remarkably pure and white, attaching itself just like the cherished memories.
3. HAWAII
I have always felt a profound connection to Hawaii. The culture, the inhabitants, the cuisine, the vibrancy, and the lifestyle – everything resonates perfectly. Not to mention the Haleiwa acai bowls are an absolute essential!
4. SOUTH AFRICA
I was thoroughly mesmerized throughout my visit! The majestic mountains offer incredible climbing opportunities, with even more stunning views from the summit. Ensure to hike either Lion’s Head or Table Mountain in Cape Town.
5. FRANCE
Beautiful accents, stunning architecture, delightful individuals, fashionable styles, and exquisite cuisine – what more could one desire? I enthusiastically say “Oui Oui” to France at any opportunity!
THANK YOU SO MUCH FOR PROVIDING INSIGHT INTO YOUR AMAZING LIFE AS A TRAVEL BLOGGER!
