From Being Stalked to Being Robbed, Larissa D'Sa Shares the Not-So-Perfect Part of Travel

Travelling has become a way of life for many, and the world of social media has opened up diverse journeys and experiences for us to explore virtually. One such inspiring personality is Larissa D'Sa, who lives and breathes travel and life! With over a decade of globetrotting experience, Larissa took the plunge and launched her YouTube channel in 2014, captivating her audience with her incredible journey. As an award-winning Travel Influencer, Larissa has made her mark in the travel industry, earning recognition for her remarkable contributions.

In an exclusive interview, Larissa shares her motivation for becoming a travel influencer, her exhilarating journey, and even some delightful travel anecdotes that will inspire you. 

Read the edited excerpts here:

What was the inspiration behind you to become a travel influencer?

During my childhood, I used to watch travel shows on TV with my father, and he once expressed his desire for me to follow in the footsteps of travel hosts. I believe that subconsciously, his words stayed with me. However, becoming a travel influencer was never part of my initial plan. It came to me unexpectedly, particularly when I faced the challenging time of being fired from my full-time job. The first travel project that came my way made me realize how much I truly loved travelling, and from there, I pursued this passion even more fervently over time.

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Everyone shows picture-perfect travel stories. Do you have anything not so perfect to share?

Travel can be very challenging, especially in local and rural areas, and the only way is to beautify it in your mind before you portray what you feel. However, travel can be quite exhausting, not just physically but also mentally. It drains you from reality, and transitioning from one location to another is a task. Also, not every travel goes as planned, and the only way forward is accommodating unpredictability.

How do you decide which destinations to feature on your social media platforms?

I travel to places that are full of character and high on culture. I love experiences more than picturesque locations, so I balance both kinds well. 

The most memorable travel experiences you've had as an influencer?

I have too many beautiful experiences and the ones that top it are all the trips I take within our country. It makes me fall in love with India a little more each time. However, to top it off, it has to be an interaction I had with an old Vietnamese lady trying to give me directions when I was lost. It still makes me laugh when I watch the video.

How do you balance maintaining authenticity with the demands of sponsored content?

I feel both go hand in hand. I make sure I am true to my audience with what I promote, as I take this responsibility of being a creator and 'influencer' very seriously. Once you have your principles in place, maintaining a balance is not very hard.

What tips do you have for aspiring travel influencers looking to grow their online presence?

First of all, know that travel is not a joke. It can only be taken up by extremely passionate people about travelling and making a living. Be original, and know your USP. Authenticity and sticking by ethical principles do not give you a rise overnight but help you sustain yourself in the long run. Don't be shortsighted. Rather be a visionary.

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Can you share any behind-the-scenes challenges or funny incidents that have occurred during your travels?

BTS (Behind the scenes) of all my travels is extremely funny & very questionable. I have booked the wrong places at the wrong time, landed in an altogether new country and had no plan of action, eaten the wrong food and fallen sick, made silly mistakes that led to road accidents, been stalked to be robbed in Paris (which I tackled very swiftly and was safe), travelled to European countries and vlogged it all with 2-3 GB of footage and lost it all, gotten into arguments over racism, and defended our country - you name it, I've almost done it all.

You recently became a certified diver. How was your experience?

Diving was on my list for the longest time, and I'm so glad I could do it. It was more of a spiritual experience than anything else. I feel I've finally found what I could do in the name of a 'vacation' because otherwise, I'm always travelling to document.

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Your Rishikesh posts on your social media were very spiritual and awakening. What was one thing you took back from that trip?

Rishikesh and Banaras are two places that open my eyes on a different level. It's like reading 'The Alchemist' by Paulo Coelho. They say it gives you a different learning experience every time you read it. That's what these two places do to me. It made me realize how important it is to slow down no matter how much of a workaholic you are. Rishikesh is a place that calls you. And when it does, it gives you the most valuable teachings to take back, provided you come with an open mind.

What role do you think travel influencers play in promoting lesser-known destinations?

Travel and tourism have indeed benefited a lot from influencers. I've seen businesses and tourism boards flourish because of the rise of social media. But as much as it helps the destination, it can also ruin the beauty of it - especially if the goal is easily accessible.

They say you grow as a human when you travel to places; what has been your biggest learning as a human?

Life's beauty lies in the smallest of things. Travel makes you experience the unpredictability of every situation, and the challenges it brings either elevate and enrich their learnings or make you detest them. I always say that there is no bigger teacher than travel. It forces you to stay humble and not let your ego control your mind. And with this fast-paced generation, we tend to race so much with time; travel teaches you to absorb every moment. You feel like you're found, even when you're lost in alleys looking for your destination. Overall, it makes you enjoy your life journey so much more with a lot of gratitude

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How do you engage with your audience and encourage them to participate in the travel experiences you showcase?

I try to keep it as real as possible and convey to them what I feel. My strength lies in communicating my feelings and emotions; somehow, it reaches every human, even through a screen.

Lastly, what message do you have for the travel community as a traveller yourself?

Travel is as beautiful as you make it. It all lies in your hands on how exciting or inconvenient you make it. Remembering that travel is unpredictable and preparing for different situations beforehand will help. Keep it authentic, and avoid always following trends. Personal experiences and stories are far better than following a herd. Lastly, don't forget to have fun while you travel. That comes first!