OK, confession time: how many of us have looked at all those awesome travel pictures and videos taken by influencers and went green with envy?

(Especially when we know the trips are often sponsored by a certain brand).

We'll be honest: we admit to the green eyed monster's temporary take over of our otherwise pretty nice minds.


But is it really just because of their good looks that allow these influencers to be successful?

A person can't really just be pretty, take pictures in pretty places at all times and get thousands of followers without having quality content, right?

At the recent media preview of Klook's first ever Travel ​Fest, we got the chance to hear former Miss Malaysia Universe Vanessa Tevi and Film Producer Ismael Ma, who shared some of the challenges they faced during their recent trip to Australia.


The trip to Goldcoast and Brisbane was sponsored by Klook and Queensland Tourism Board, so they had a lot of content to produce for the trip.

Ma said that the weather was pretty bad when they arrived in Goldcoast. It was raining on most days they were there, making it difficult for them to get any nice visuals.

"We had to wake up super early to catch the sunrise and we only managed to get two good shots the whole time we were there," he said.

Vanessa added that they had to wake up at 4 a.m to catch the sunrise before driving to Brisbane for skydiving.

Waking up at 4a.m is no easy task
That wasn't the only challenge they face. The couple had very different approach to the way they wanted their content to be, and had to come to an agreement on how the end product should be.

"I edited my style and then Vanessa was like there was no vlog in there; it's not personal.

"But the music don't match and I was like ughh," Ma said.

However, after getting feedbacks from other parties, Ma got more perspectives on what would work and the duo found their balance.

With so many places and activities to cover, the duo also had to find the balance between focusing on content for both the brands they were working for and having fun.

"The thing is; when we were experiencing so many things, we were shooting and half way through we were like this one for Queensland...Klook we haven't shot, you know?

"You have to really tell yourself, 'Hey, you have to enjoy yourself'. Don't just shoot because you have to show people like what you're trying to do.

Vanessa and Ismael Ma after skydiving"Do it for yourself and if you're having a good time, then don't forget to share it with people," said Vanessa.

Ma also reminded us that there was no right or wrong when it comes to shooting for content.

"You want to share your experiences and there's nothing right or wrong. Whatever you shot, just choose a good music. That's it," he said.

There were more golden nuggets hidden in their talk, and more still will be shared by famous frequent travelers at Klook Travel Fest, happening on 28 and 29 September.

Happening this month
Don't worry, you won't have to queue up for hours just to get into the hall at Malaysia International Trade and Exhibition Centre (MITEC) -- where the event will be held -- only to come home with dozens of pamphlets but without any idea where you're going to go next.

There will be games, travel talks and workshops, freebies, Insta-worthy interactive experiences and cultural performances, as well as travel deals and exclusive discounts!

Klook regional marketing director Marcus Yong told us that the company was excited to introduce the Klook Travel Fest to the growing tech-savvy Malaysians who love to travel.

Marcus Yong speaking to the media about Klook Travel Fest
"Whether you are looking for travel deals, planning the itinerary for your year-end vacation or simply need a little inspiration on where to explore next, Klook Travel Fest will have a little something for everyone attending,” he added.

Some of the celebrities, influencers and travel experts you can expect at the event are singer-songwriter and YouTuber, Jenn Chia, who will be serenading audience with her signature tunes.

Actress and TV host, Sazzy Falak and Daphne Iking, who are also globe-trotting mothers will be sharing tips on traveling with children. Journalist and award-winning travel blogger Mei Mei Chu will be busting myths on solo traveling, while beauty travel content creator Chanwon will be sharing about traveling in Japan and many more.

You can also expect many other brands to be at the event, offering great deals.

Get free admission to the fest by downloading the Klook app and registering for an entry pass here.

Time to pack your bags and go on a new adventure!