I travel “for the gram” and you know what? That’s OK.
A few years ago I might have laughed at the idea of traveling somewhere or picking my next holiday based on a photograph online. I would have definitely scoffed at the thought of going somewhere with the sole purpose of getting a snap for ~the internet~.
But it’s 2019 and I can say past me had it so wrong. Because since I’ve become a full-time blogger (wahoo!) I can say that traveling based off Instagram has enriched my travel experience in a way I didn’t know was possible.
Seeing a destination or location on Instagram is completely inspiring. I’ve discovered places of the world that I didn’t know about before. Towns, villages and cities that I may not have given a second thought until I saw someone’s online adventures right in front of me.
It feels more “real” seeing travel from other’s perspectives
It’s different to picking up a travel book (don’t get me wrong, I love those too). But these photos from real people feel more like tangible places that I too can visit and explore. The research is all at the tips of my fingers with fellow bloggers, influencers and photographers on standby and of course, with help from the next hashtag.
Needless to say I’m 100% okay traveling with inspiration solely from Instagram. And honestly, there’s nothing wrong with that whatsoever. Planning my destinations based off of the gram means that not only do I find a location to travel to, but I also can explore where I want to go when I’m there. By looking up these photographed destinations, I’m already building an itinerary for our travel. I’m learning about the buildings, the sights, who was here, when and why.
It may start as “just a photo” but it ends up becoming a history lesson. It’s exploring, learning and it’s art. Or it’s finding the best damn margarita in town. It’s dining at an authentic family-run restaurant. Or sipping on a latte in an up and coming coffee spot.
Because it inspires me
With such negativity aimed at bloggers, influencers and Instagrammers lately – I really wanted to talk about how inspiring I’ve found the internet in helping me plan my destinations. Where to go, what to see and what to do. There are a million hashtags and locations to help me out. And to be honest, I think that’s pretty damn powerful.
People are always ready to lend a helping hand
It doesn’t just stop there. Think about when you travel. I usually casually mention in my Instagram posts that I’m heading to certain places. And you know what? People are super happy to give recommendations! I’ve found some amazing spots because followers have told me where to go.
And reaching out to other bloggers and Instagrammers is something I love to do too. If there are people out there writing about or living in areas, why wouldn’t I want to reach out and go straight to the source? More often than not, people are willing to help. From big followings to smaller ones – I believe that people are inherently good and want to help others.
It’s how I’ve found some of the best places. Or even avoided areas that might not be what I’m looking for.
I am seriously grateful to the internet for helping me achieve my travel dreams.
And yes, of course, there’s a way to do this that doesn’t totally fulfill your life. If you’re going to a location simply to gram and go, I’d say to think a little more about what you’re looking to achieve.
But I think that even those who simply go for a snapshot are still getting to have a pretty great experience too.
So stay tuned because I’m happily going to continue traveling “for the gram” and you know what? I’m happy that I am!
Do you travel for the Instagram too? Join the discussion over on my latest Instagram!
Kelly x