Traveler Tuesday – Amrita of Tale of 2 Backpackers

I've watched enough Bollywood movies (I'm a huge fan) and worked in Silicon Valley with a lot of Indian engineers to know that it is. not easy to go against your families expectations. That's why I love Amrita and Agni's story. They did what they were supposed to do, what their parents wanted but in the end, they realized that they were not truly happy unless they were out exploring on some kind of adventure or another, that we are only a small part of the universe and we need to embrace the moment!

Let’s meet Amrita (and Agni)!

[1] When and how did you become a traveler?
We started travelling together from our college days. While Amrita had been travelling since childhood, it was only after we got married, we started travelling together more and more. We had trekked to Amarnath in 2012 where we realized the beauty of travelling and gradually became an informed traveller. After that, there was no looking back. Travel became a lifestyle.

[2] What kind of traveler do you define yourself as?

We are always looking out for adventure and eccentricities who believe more in people than places. Adventure does not always mean something that gives an adrenaline rush. Trying a new cuisine or discovering a quaint coffee shop around the corner or exploring a new place are all adventures. And we simply love these types of thrills!

[3] Which country do you come from/call home?

India, one of the most culturally rich and diverse countries is our home.

[4] What do you crave from home when you are traveling?

When we travel, we hardly miss our home. But if I have to choose one, then we probably miss our bed and pillows!

[5] Tell us about your blog

The blog is called Tale of 2 Backpackers. It is all about our experiences, misadventures, and stories of an Indian couple – Agni and Amrita. We travel across India and around while trying to understand the people, places, cultures and cuisines. While Agni is more into trek and adventure, Amrita loves the colour and vividness of culture and magnanimity of heritage and history. So our blog has the chronicles of our trekking and other daring activities, it also has the local flavor and colour of customs, traditions, and festivals.

[6] What do you love most about traveling?

The best thing about travelling is that we get to meet so many different people and experience such diverse culture. It definitely broadens the mind and makes us realize what little place we occupy in this huge world. Travelling has made us appreciate the little joys of life.

[7] What do you dislike about traveling?

Irresponsible travel and tourism is something we dislike. In the quest for knowing ourselves through travel, we often neglect the ecology and disrespect the local culture. This is the flip side of excessive travel and tourism.

[8] How do you prepare for a trip?

Read, read and read about the place. The look at the maps and decide which places we want to visit. We research the cultural and offbeat experiences in that place. Days before, we pack our backpacks and start on the journey. We arrive at a destination and then go with the flow. We believe that it is not possible to get everything on the internet. There are always some new experience, new things to see.

[9] You have won the lottery, now tell us where you want to live.

We would love to live in Iceland!

[10] Travel essentials – 3 things you always travel with.

Our smartphone, camera with all its gear and our mini travel kit that has a few everyday essentials.

[11] What is your favorite article of clothing?

Nothing can beat the comfort of a well-used pair of jeans and t-shirt. And we both love it.

[12] Your single most treasured personal possession.

Our camera

[13] Do you have a piece of advice for bloggers starting out?

Whether you are doing it for passion or profession, be true to it and work hard. There is no substitute for hard work. Give your best to your readers and do not cheat them. They do understand and value hard work. Be your best.

[14] What are three other blogs that inspire you?

The Wandering Soul’s Wander Tales by Neelima Vallangi

Uncornered Market

Rangan Datta

[15] Your favorite travel resource on the web?

Skyscanner for flights, Hostel world for accommodation and Help Exchange for volunteering.

Amrita's Lightning Round of Favorites

Airport: New Delhi
Mode of Transportation: bike
Window or aisle: window, of course!
City: Kolkata, our hometown
Country: India with all its eccentricities
Travel Gear: our backpack
Travel snack: Dry Fruits
Book: Seven Years in Tibet by Heinrich Harrier
Movie: The Way Back
Song: The Journey Song, it’s a Bollywood number!
Quote: Once a year, go someplace you’ve never been.

Thanks, Amrita!

You can keep up with (Agni and) Amrita on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Pinterest, and of course on her blog. Wherever you catch her, I am sure you will enjoy her adventures!

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