With over 260,000 followers on Instagram and 700,000 on Twitter, Luxury Travel Influencer Scott Eddy has found a way to travel full time. In one month, he often goes to about 20 to 25 countries, flies around 175,000 miles and goes on three or four cruises. He talks to Harriet James about his love for travel.
What’s the best thing about being a Digital Nomad? Being a digital nomad means having no permanent home, and that is very special to me. I love being able to move from one destination to another as little or as often as I want, and I also get to meet new people all the time.
Growing up, did you always have aspirations to travel the world?
Not at all. My father and his entire family were all policemen and I desired to follow in their footsteps. The plan was that I was going to finish high school, join the police academy six months later, get married, have kids and die. I had it all planned out, but everything changed. On 25th May 1989, my father was killed in a plane crash while in the line of duty three weeks before I graduated from high school. I was just 18 years old and the only thing I knew how to do was be a cop. I didn’t like school so going to campus was not on the table for me. I was confused and didn’t know what to do, but was certain I didn’t want to be a cop because it reminded me of my dad. My friend was working for an investment banking firm in New York and introduced me to the profession which I stayed in for 11 years.
From stockbroker to social media travel influencer – why the career change?
The firm where I was working was sold, so I took a two week trip to Thailand to visit a friend. I loved it so much that I called my mother and told her to send over my things, and that’s how I stayed there for 11 years! I didn’t have a wife, kids or even a job so I could afford to take that risk.
Which has been your favourite destination thus far?
Thailand. I’ve never met nicer or warmer people in my life. For me, it’s all about the people. You can have a great experience and amazing food anywhere, but the people make or break the country.
What do you love about Kenya ?
I was born and raised in the States but have spent 17 years in many developing countries. I prefer countries overseas to home because the people are much warmer, nicer and more appreciative. I like being around nice people. Kenya also has beautiful wildlife and nature, and I particularly love the wildebeest migration which I was privileged to watch during my first trip.
What are some hacks you’ve learnt about getting affordable travel?
I think subscribing to hotels and airlines directly on their websites and social media pages is key. Because competition is getting so stiff, they are always posting new deals and offers. When you book directly with them, you can build your loyalty points.
Despite being a Social Media Influencer, you don’t like that title. Why?
People put that title in their bio but I think it’s stupid. It’s an egotistical word. If someone else calls you that then it’s fine. You shouldn’t tout it if you are…let others do it for you. It’s also such a small part of what I do, which includes consulting for airlines, speaking at conferences and more.
What can you say is the secret to success?
I believe I am nice and consistent in my work. Consistency is what people lack in the social media world. I am 24-7 on social media, checking emails, responding to comments and interacting with people. To me, it’s a 24-7 hustle.
Do you ever see yourself slowing down on the traveling at some point?
Traveling is my life. I don’t know about the future yet, but I’m sold out to this.
