Getting to Know You Interview #3: Emanuel

This is the third in my new series of interviews of fellow travel lovers.  I particularly enjoyed seeing Emanuel in Egypt (a dream destination of mine) and Machu Picchu.   He writes about travels on his blog, Travels with Eman:  http://travelswitheman.blogspot.com

1. How did you start travel blogging?

I had a regular blog that I updated from time to time, but it was mostly full of mundane entries of what was happening in my life. I used it to write about my first trip overseas, and received some nice feedback, so I decided to write more as I travel to more countries.

2.  Can you give us a brief summary of your past travels?

My first real trip abroad was to London, then Paris, then Amsterdam. Since then I’ve traveled to Peru, Thailand, Malaysia, Greece, Egypt and Turkey.

Machu Picchu

3.  What was your favorite trip or favorite travel experience?

My trip to Peru, more specifically my time hiking the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, was life-changing. It was the most trying experience of my life, but every time I think about that trip, I can’t help but smile. I also got to paraglide over the Sacred Valley. To this day, that is my favorite travel experience.

4. Is there any place that you have been but don’t want to return to?  Why?

I wouldn’t mind NOT going back to Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. The Petronas Towers are cool, but I felt there wasn’t much to see beyond that.

5.  What are some of travel lessons you have learned recently?

Always have small bills on hand for tips. In Cairo, I only had big bills. Getting change was impossible.  Another tip is always make an effort to speak the language of the country you’re in. The locals appreciate it.

6.  What are your travel plans for the future?

I’m going to Tokyo and Hong Kong with my fiancee and some friends. I’ll be meeting the future in-Laws in HK. I plan on eating as much dim sum and sushi as humanly possible.

7.  What is one way that you can make a positive difference in the world while traveling?

Talking with the locals. Not just that, but having a conversation with them. Hearing their stories. Even if you don’t speak their language, or they don’t speak yours, you can still communicate. Basically, to see them and recognize them as human, just like you.

8.  What place would you recommend most and why?

I think everyone, if they are of able body, should trek the Inca Trail. It will push you. It will punish you. It might make you cry. But it’s as close to a spiritual experience as I’ve ever had when traveling.

9.  What place really surprised you?

I had no expectations when I arrived in Istanbul. But I was quite impressed with the city. The locals are very friendly and the food is fantastic.

10.  How do your travel choices reflect who you are as a person?

When I travel, I do a lot of people watching. I take pictures of interesting, quirky sites. I avoid tour groups. I wander. I get lost often.
All of this speaks to my introverted personality. I observe everything, process as much as I can, and write it all down. I just hope I’m able to get everything.