Selection Stories
Traveling is a beautiful thing, and I also try to travel as much as I can — and I do! But turning travel into a story and sharing it in a way that inspires others is a whole different skill. Sankalp, who is from Lucknow — a city that’s a story in itself, especially when it comes to food — has mastered this art by weaving his travels into engaging stories on Instagram. During our conversation, I also discovered that he works as an IT professional. Through this chat, I satisfied many of my curiosities and gained fresh perspectives. I hope this conversation helps you in some way too. So, let’s dive in!
Q1) What inspired you to start sharing travel content?
Sankalp: I think the real inspiration goes back to my childhood. I used to watch a show on TLC called Travel & Living, and it always excited me. Watching people explore different places, cultures, and food felt magical back then. And somewhere, that excitement stayed with me. Now, when I travel — with the cold breeze, a good playlist, and new stories around me — it feels like I’m living those childhood dreams. That’s what pushed me to start sharing my own travel experiences.
Q2) Was there a particular trip or experience that motivated you to begin?
Sankalp: There wasn’t any one particular trip that pushed me to begin. It was more of a gradual feeling. With every small journey, I started noticing how much I enjoyed capturing moments, talking to locals, and just being in the moment. Over time, that feeling turned into a habit — and then into something I wanted to share with others.
Q3) Who edits your travel photos or videos — do you do it yourself or do you have help?
Sankalp: I edit all my travel photos and videos myself. I like the process and playing with colors to make everything look the way I want.
Q4) Do you enjoy working in IT, or do you plan to shift full-time to travel content someday?
Sankalp: I don’t enjoy IT much. My real interest is in travel, and I want to make it full-time someday. I remember watching a movie called Wild Hogs, where a group of friends explored different places on their bikes like true bikers — that kind of free and adventurous life really inspired me.
Q5) What skills from your IT background have helped you in your content creation?
Sankalp: I’m into server management, so not many direct skills carry over.
Q6) Are there any courses you think could help you advance in your IT career, like cloud computing, cybersecurity, or data analytics?
Sankalp: Yes, certifications like RHCSA and RHCE will definitely help me grow in my IT career. They are directly related to my work in server management.
Q7) As someone living in Lucknow — a city famous for its food — what dishes would you recommend travelers try here?
Sankalp: Haha, this is something I can go on and on about! Lucknow is a paradise for food lovers, and there are so many places I’d recommend.
For vegetarians: Start your morning with matar khasta from Sahu Khasta or a thali at Netram. Don’t miss dahi jalebi either! If you’re up for something heavier, try Sardar Ji ke chole bhature or their chola kulche. We also have amazing Bombay pav bhaji, Royal Sky for fusion, and the list goes on and on.
For non-veg lovers: You can’t go wrong with Tunday Kababi, Dastarkhwan, Open Air, Mubeen’s, Wahid Biryani, Lalla Biryani, and Sakhawat. The variety of kabab paratha here will spoil you!
Honestly, the list never ends — Lucknow is just built different when it comes to food!
Q8) Do you have a favourite local restaurant or street food spot in Lucknow?
Sankalp: My personal favourite is Baati Chokha restaurant — I just love the vibe and the food there. And when it comes to street food, 1090 Chauraha, also known as Chatori Gali, is the most famous spot. You’ll find all kinds of amazing local flavors there.
Q9) How much water do you make a conscious effort to drink every day?
Sankalp: I try to drink around 2 to 3 liters of water every day.
Q10) What are your best strategies for traveling on a low budget?
Sankalp: For budget travel, one of the best strategies is volunteering. There are many travel platforms and companies that offer free stay and meals in exchange for your skills — like photography, videography, editing, cooking, or management. Another smart option is staying with friends or family if they live in the place you’re visiting — it saves money and gives you a local guide too. I’ve also covered such platforms and tips in my videos for those who want to explore this way of traveling.
Q11) What is something that truly scares you?
Sankalp: Nothing serious really scares me… but yeah, I absolutely hate lizards!
———–Thank You———