We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Vanessa + Maks Nawka a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.
Vanessa + Maks, thanks so much for taking the time to share your insights and lessons with us today. We’re particularly interested in hearing about how you became such a resilient person. Where do you get your resilience from?
Our resilience comes from our shared passion for travel and the joy of discovering the unknown. Traveling isn’t always smooth—there are challenges like missed flights, language barriers, or unexpected detours—but these moments have taught us to stay adaptable and find beauty in imperfection.
We’ve also learned that resilience grows when you stay focused on your “why.” For us, it’s about the thrill of exploring new cultures, savoring unique cuisines, and connecting with people from all walks of life. This deeper purpose keeps us grounded and motivated, even when things don’t go as planned.
Another key source of resilience is our ability to support each other as a team. Whether one of us is problem-solving a tricky itinerary or simply offering encouragement on a tough day, we rely on our partnership to navigate through challenges together.
Finally, the practice of gratitude fuels our resilience. Every time we reflect on the amazing places we’ve visited and the experiences we’ve had, we’re reminded that the ups and downs are all part of the journey—and that makes every moment worth it.
Let’s take a small detour – maybe you can share a bit about yourself before we dive back into some of the other questions we had for you?
We are Vanessa and Maks, passionate travelers and creators behind our Instagram Travel Blog and Podcast. Our journey began with a traditional blog, but we’ve since shifted our focus to Instagram, where we share travel hacks, cultural insights, and tips for exploring destinations beyond the typical tourist path. That said, we also embrace the magic of iconic tourist experiences because travel is all about balance.
What excites us most is the opportunity to connect with people, immerse ourselves in different cultures, and share stories that inspire others to become not just tourists but true travelers—hence our motto: “Be a Traveler.” Whether it’s discovering hidden gems, diving into local cuisines, or simply offering practical advice for smoother adventures, our goal is to make travel more enriching for everyone.
Our Instagram content is in English to connect with a global audience, while our podcast is in German, offering a deeper dive into our travel experiences, detailed tips, and interviews with inspiring individuals we’ve met along the way. This mix allows us to cater to both international and German-speaking communities.
We’re also excited about upcoming plans, including exclusive travel guides and live Q&A sessions to connect with our audience in real time.
Follow us for authentic travel inspiration, and remember: every journey is an opportunity to grow, connect, and explore.
If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?
Looking back, the three qualities and skills that were most impactful in our journey are:
Attention to Detail
Whether it’s booking flights, finding the perfect hotels, or maximizing travel reward programs like miles collection, attention to detail has been essential. We’ve honed our expertise in researching and securing the best deals while ensuring smooth travel experiences. For those starting out, focus on learning the basics of flight and hotel comparison tools, as well as understanding how loyalty programs work. This knowledge can save both time and money.
Flexibility and Adaptability
Travel is often unpredictable, so being able to adapt to unexpected changes, such as flight delays or itinerary shifts, has been invaluable. Our advice: keep an open mind, have a backup plan, and embrace spontaneity—it often leads to the most memorable experiences.
Open-Mindedness
Being open to new cultures, traditions, and experiences has been a game-changer. Travel is an opportunity to step outside your comfort zone, learn from others, and see the world from a different perspective. For those just beginning their journey, let go of preconceptions and approach each destination with curiosity and respect. This mindset will make your travels richer and more rewarding.
Storytelling and Connection
Sharing our travel experiences in an authentic and engaging way has been a cornerstone of our success. Building a connection with our audience through Instagram and our podcast allows us to inspire and inform others. For those starting out, focus on telling genuine stories that reflect your unique perspective and passions. This helps to create a meaningful connection with your audience.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/einhauchfernweh
- Other: https://open.spotify.com/show/3YBhjLkmZRWs2a5iEfWIju?si=487d1cd9991a4385
Image Credits
Just ours.
so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.
