From Passion to Paisa: The Ultimate Travel Business Blueprint That Works
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Have you ever dreamt of leaving your high-paying job to follow your passion? In a recent episode, we had the pleasure of hosting Kartik Khandelwal on the Diffr Show, who did just that! Kartik shared his inspiring journey of leaving a well-paying job to dive into the world of travel. His story is a powerful reminder that it’s possible to turn your dreams into reality with resilience, a growth mindset, and a bit of transformation.
From a High-Paying Job to a Life of Travel
Kartik Khandelwal’s journey began when he worked a cushy job at HDFC bank in Mumbai, earning 1.5 to 2 lakhs per month. But his heart was elsewhere. Like many of us, Kartik felt the pull of his true passion for travel. One night, he decided to take a chance. He boarded the Avantika Express to Indore, leaving his job without notice. This bold move marked the beginning of an extraordinary adventure.
The Solo Trip That Changed Everything
Our Expert’s love for travel ignited in 7th standard when he took an unplanned solo trip to Goa. This experience opened his eyes to the true essence of travel, immersing oneself in the local culture, connecting with people, and discovering offbeat locations.
Turning Passion into a Business: The Birth of Barefoot Trekians
From 2010 to 2011, the concept of turning travel into a business was unconventional. However, Expert saw a unique opportunity to address the gaps in the travel industry. He noticed that people were seeking more than just the usual tourist spots; they wanted to experience the vibe, culture, and festivals of each city.
During his MBA, his passion for travel led him to an internship project in Himachal Pradesh, where he interacted with many solo travelers. He observed that while foreigners were embracing the Indian culture and spirituality, many Indians were not. This inspired him to start “Barefoot Trekians,” a travel company focused on promoting offbeat destinations, cultural immersion, and budget-friendly travel.
Overcoming Challenges and Building Trust
Starting a travel business wasn’t easy. Expert shared how he faced numerous challenges, including building trust with customers, dealing with fraud, and managing everything single-handedly. Initially, customers were hesitant to trust a new company, often demanding to see his home and family as proof of legitimacy.
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The Business of Travel: Models and Insights
For aspiring entrepreneurs in the travel industry, Kartik shared valuable insights into various business models. These include becoming a vendor, starting a travel company, working as a freelance tour leader, or even opening a hotel. He emphasized the importance of building a strong network, providing excellent service, and understanding the nuances of the travel industry.
Solo Travel vs. Group Travel: Finding Your Perfect Fit
One of the most discussed topics was the difference between solo travel and group travel. Expert believes that both have their unique advantages. Solo travel offers freedom and self-discovery, while group travel provides a sense of community, networking opportunities, and a hassle-free experience. Ultimately, the best choice depends on individual preferences and travel goals.
Budget-Friendly Travel Tips
Expert also shared some amazing tips for budget-friendly travel. He emphasized that travel doesn’t have to be expensive and that with proper planning, anyone can explore the world without breaking the bank. His experience of traveling through South India for just ₹20,000 is a testament to this.
Kartik Khandelwal’s Top 5 Summer Destinations
With summer in full swing, our Expert recommended his top 5 destinations:
- Spiti
- Char Dham
- Baku
- Almaty
- Georgia and the Philippines
Conclusion:
Kartik Khandelwal’s story is an inspiration for anyone who has ever dreamt of traveling the world and turning their passion into a career. His insights into the travel industry, his tips for budget-friendly travel, and his passion for exploration are invaluable for both aspiring travelers and entrepreneurs.
If you’re ready to embark on your adventure, whether solo or with a group, remember Kartik’s words: “Budget is not a constraint in travel. The risk of losing your mindset and family is a constraint.” So, step out of your comfort zone, embrace the unknown, and let the journey begin! To catch the full episode and dive deeper into Kartik’s incredible journey and travel insights, be sure to watch the entire episode on our channel.