Weekends are all about downtime. After a week full of work to meet deadlines, everybody needs some breather to relax and recuperate. From watching a favourite web series to planning a vacation, weekends are designated as family and me time. Amanpreet Bajaj, general manager- India and Southeast Asia, Hong Kong and Taiwan, Airbnb, talks to BrandWagon Online about his weekends, favourite vacation destination and more.
What is the one thing you like to do when not working?
I enjoy traveling, reading, and spending time with someone from the Gen Z population to understand future trends from their perspective.
How do you spend your weekends?
I divide my time between my family and my passion for helping the startup and tech ecosystem in India. I spend time with some of the companies I’ve invested in as an angel, assisting young founders with their queries, and meeting new founders working on interesting problems.
What are your favorite gadgets?
My go-to gadget is the iPad, and I’ve recently been exploring the new Kindle Scribe, which I find very interesting. As a wine enthusiast, I’m always on the lookout for intriguing wine accessories and recently acquired an electronic wine opener.
Given an option to choose another career, what would it be?
I wouldn’t change a thing. I love consumer tech and value the opportunity to bring massive impact at the intersection of travel, hospitality, and technology.
Which is your favorite vacation spot?
Switzerland has been our go-to vacation spot for many years. We appreciate the slow living in some of the smaller towns there, and the food is fantastic. When traveling, I prefer staying in Airbnb accommodations, and my Swiss favorite is a traditional chalet in Gstaad.
A TV show, a movie, and an ad campaign you highly recommend watching:
TV Show – “Grey’s Anatomy” holds a special place in my heart. I have immense respect for the medical profession, and this series brilliantly combines character drama with many valuable life lessons. One of my favorite quotes from the first episode resonates deeply: “At some point, you have to make a decision. Boundaries don’t keep other people out, they fence you in. Life is messy, that’s how we’re made. So you can waste your life drawing lines or you can live your life crossing them. But there are some lines that are way too dangerous to cross. Here’s what I know. If you’re willing to throw caution to the wind and take a chance, the view from the other side”… is simply spectacular.
Movie – My all-time favorite movie is “Zindagi Na Milegi Doobara” This film beautifully portrays life’s reflections, teaching us how to overcome fear, find peace in forgiveness, and discover the importance of achieving the right balance in our lives. It’s truly an all-time classic.
Ad Campaign – While it may not fit the traditional definition of an ad campaign, I genuinely admire the “Only on Airbnb” campaigns on Airbnb. Through this initiative, we’ve showcased some truly iconic places that wouldn’t otherwise be accessible to the public. Notable examples include the City Palace in Jaipur, Shahrukh and Gauri Khan’s Delhi home, and even the famous Barbie’s Malibu Dream House. These campaigns have offered unique and unforgettable experiences to travelers.
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