Born and raised in Germany, travelling the world freely is more challenging for Christian Betzmann than for most. Learning about a new culture, language and how people on the other side of the world live inspired him the most through voyaging different coasts and borders. We talked to Christian to find out about his experiences while exploring Pakistan.
How did your journey begin to explore different destinations around the world?
My mum used to work as a flight attendant so travelling was always in my blood. My life felt unfulfilled living a 9-5 routine so I decided to leave everything behind and take a gap year in Australia with a work and holiday visa. This was the best decision of my life.
What made you come to Pakistan and explore it all?
My good friend Drew Binsky, who is a full time travel vlogger came to Pakistan and created amazing content which ultimately inspired me to come and experience this country for myself. My initial itinerary was India, Sri Lanka and Philippines but after travelling to Pakistan for a week I fell in love with the culture and people and never left !
What is the most challenging part of full time travel?
I have been travelling for almost eight years now. I find it incredibly easy to connect to people along my journey but it’s always very heart breaking leaving so many amazing friends behind when I move to another destination. It’s also very disheartening to see in what conditions people have to live on a daily basis. We tend to complain about such little things instead of appreciating what we’ve got. This was definitely a lesson I will never forget.
What is the most common misconception about Pakistan and did you find it any different?
The media has missguided 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.
What challenges have you faced during your travel in Pakistan?
I have never experienced a country with such incredible hospitality. People here are kind hearted and have never tried to rip me off. Unfortunately for mass tourism the roads in the northern areas have to be massively improved. The same goes for the hotel standards. Unhygienic standards in kitchens and hotels are still a big problem even in the best hotels/restaurants.
What has been your favourite part of Pakistan and why?
My favourite city is Karachi as I love how open minded and developed the city is compared to 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.
Your three favourite destinations around the world and why?
Australia: I have spent the best three years of my life on this amazing continent. The culture, the people and the mind blowing nature are some of the reasons why I would always settle down here.
Bali: The new LA of southeast Asia is the best place to connect with like minded people while enjoying stunning beaches and lush green landscapes.
India: As an adventure lover India is so incredibly diverse and rich in culture that it’s almost impossible to experience it all. I have been there three times and always fell in love with the food, nature and the history.
How do you see travel changing after Covid-19?
Covid-19 will change the immigration policies which will make it difficult to travel around the globe. I am not as scared about myself as I am lucky to own a German passport but I am definitely scared that most places will give you limited access to avoid bigger crowds.
What has been your most memorable ‘out of my comfort zone’ experience?
I was hiking for several days into the untouched Sumatran rainforest in northern Indonesia. We slept in the middle of the jungle to see wild orangutan’s and it was just mind blowing how close these animals are to us humans. Knowing that wild tigers and elephants are roaming around our tents at night was scary but I can definitely recommend this experience!
What advice can you share for those who want to travel full time but are scared to take the leap?
Believe in yourself. Work hard on your skills. Invest atleast one hour every day to reach your goals. Be consistent and don’t let anyone tell you you’re not good enough!
What would you say to people who want to travel to Pakistan but are worried about safety issues?
In seven months travelling around Pakistan I have never felt unsafe. I go out alone at night. I travel to the most remote places all by myself. Never had any issues. Have a smile on your face and don’t judge when people are looking at you. Instead just smile back and you will be welcomed and taken care of. People here are incredibly proud of their country and they will do anything to make your stay here as memorable as possible!
If you could travel back in time, which era and place would you go to and why?
I would definitely go back to Australia, travel it’s beautiful west coast in a campervan and fly over to new Zealand afterwards!
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