Instagram vs. Reality: How Social Media is Affecting the Traveling Experience

According to Statistic, a high percentage of people use social media for travel inspiration and ideas, and the majority share photos on social media while traveling. But have you wondered about the contrasted characteristics of social media and travel?

Social media is changing the way we travel. Around the world, influencers and regular-old travelers alike are destroying local environments, posing provocatively at sites of tragedy and even putting their own lives at risk, all in a vain attempt to drum up interest on social media.

Research conducted by Facebook in 2019 showed that 67% of travelers use Instagram to find travel inspiration before booking a trip and once the trip is booked, they continue to use the platform to get themselves pumped for the upcoming adventure.

Social media is encouraging people to explore new places they never even knew existed until they saw a photo pop up on their timeline! Now, we’re only a few clicks away from seeing an image on Instagram to purchasing a ticket to go vacation there. 

However, as with many aspects of social media, there are obvious downsides to this travel revolution. It could be argued that the obsession with documenting and sharing your travel adventures online distracts from being present and truly enjoying the experience. Our motives to travel seem to have shifted away from wanderlust and have become more egocentric, travelling now for the sake of aesthetical pictures, likes, and follows. This draws away from some of the most important elements of travel.

In general, social media has revolutionised the way we travel. While giving us new opportunities to enjoy a new place through the eyes of others, or learning how to take the bus somewhere we’ve never been by someone else sharing their story𑁋 And while it is amazing the amount of things we learn by our friend’s explorations, I believe it is critical for travelers enjoy the little things present in all new endeavours. To want to get to know a place, a culture, a tradition, or simply enjoy a peaceful, restful vacation with their loved ones without worrying about their self-image, or comparing to other travelers' experiences. 

The rising importance of social media in the travel planning and booking process can get complex. As always, we are always available to make sure you have an unique, unforgettable experience! Give us a call or email today to learn about our amazing offers...We promise, you’ll want to share them only with your closest friends! 

Safe Travels!
Dan.