Daily Times

Christian Betzmann is a German travel vlogger who has been in Pakistan since October. He has travelled far and wide throughout the country and says that he has never experienced any violence or felt threatened.

Christian Betzmann sat down with Daily Times to talk about his stay here and the experiences he got to share with everyone.

Please tell us in detail about your venture into travel vlogging. How did it all begin for you?

I always had passion for photography. I started uploading pictures on Instagram simply taken by my phone which slowly transitioned to stories which ultimately led me to create videos. I started my YouTube Channel around six months ago and it’s been very successful since then! I am enjoying the journey.

You’ve been in Pakistan for the past many months now owing to the pandemic. Tell us about the exciting places you’ve visited here, the different interest experiences you’ve had and also do mention about the food you’ve tried here.

I came to Pakistan in October. My favourite adventure was the two weeks I spent in the northern areas around Hunza. The natural Beauty of the endless mountain scapes and glaciers got me so fascinated that I will definitely be back soon. Apart from that I have been to every major city in Pakistan including Peshawar, Multan and Hyderabad. So far I would say I have tried every major Pakistani dish and my favourite is malai boti!

‘I always had passion for photography. I started uploading pictures on Instagram simply taken by my phone which slowly transitioned to stories which ultimately led me to create videos. I started my YouTube channel around six months ago and it’s been very successful since then! I am enjoying the journey’

How different or similar has Pakistan been in your perception of it before you arrived?

The media has misguided us for the longest time by telling us that Pakistan is full of terrorism and war. Instead I received a warm welcome with smiling people and never experienced any violence or felt threatened.

Which are the most picturesque areas in Pakistan that you aim to highlight or have highlighted in your vlogs?

My favourite city in Karachi as I love how open minded and developed the city is compared to the other big cities. For nature and hiking I fell in love with Hunza. The mountain ranges and the incredible glaciers making it the perfect travel destination for adventure tourists and hikers from all around the world.

How are you adjusting to the summer in Pakistan?

Other than sweating it out I have got to accept the ridiculously high electricity bill.

What are you currently working on?

I am planning on working with the government on travelling across Pakistan with local and international bloggers/vloggers to showcase the true potential of this country.

What’s your favourite place you’ve visited in the world and why?

I have lived in Australia for over three years and it was by far the best time of my life. This continent is full of amazing people and so diverse in nature that I would settle down there if I had the chance!

If you could swim with dolphins or go shark diving, which would you pick?

Go shark diving! Always challenge your fears and get out of your comfort zone!

What place is top of your bucket list?

Definitely a massive road trip through eastern Africa. Living in a campervan while travelling along the coastline of western Australia and camping across New Zealand.

What can’t you travel without?

My camera, laptop, phone and my hair wax.

Do you prefer solo travel or with someone else?

Definitely solo travel. I have never learned so much about myself while embracing different cultures and meeting people from all over the world. You will learn that the only person you have to make happy in this world is the one in the mirror.

Who is the person at home that you miss the most?

Definitely my mum. She has been supporting me since Day 1 and after almost eight years of traveling she’s still there for me when I need her.