travelling aesthetic

Unpacking Your Travel Aesthetic

Insta-worthy edition.

Feeling the excitement bubbling up while boarding your flight, discovering all the cool local spots, and snapping pictures of the most breathtaking scenery. What’s not to like about being a travel blogger? Of course, there’s a whole world to unravel when making this niche your brand’s unique signature. No worries, that’s why we’re here! In this guide, we’ll go over how to build your travel aesthetic by creating a unique visual identity (P.S. Instagram edition!). Eager to get started? Read on!

Ready to Takeoff: Find Your Gate ✈️

Travel aesthetic 101: understanding visual branding 💫️, the aesthetic handbook: elements of visual branding ✨, from landing to lift off: creating your travel aesthetic 🛫, bon voyage visuals: exploring the best travel aesthetics 🤩.

• Less Is More: Minimalistic Travel Aesthetic 🤍

Boho Bliss: Eclectic Travel Aesthetic 🍃

Jet set glow: vibrant travel aesthetic 💫, sleek vibes: modern travel aesthetic 🏙, glam on the go: chic travel aesthetic 💖, do it right: what makes your travel aesthetic shine 🌟, boarding pass to inspiration: your journey starts here 🧳.

Have you ever encountered an Instagram feed you just couldn’t take your eyes off? Maybe it had to do with its beautiful color palette or dazzling illustrations. Or perhaps it made you feel connected to the posts they were sharing.  Needless to say, its aesthetic was spot on! Well, guess what? That has to do with visual branding. 😉✨

So, what is visual branding exactly? In a few words, visual branding refers to all the graphic components and elements that work cohesively to communicate your business identity. Think of it as the unifying thread that brings together your brand’s image, message, and personality. 

Now, why is this important for your travel aesthetic ? Let’s take a look at what this conveys for your business:

The Importance of Visual Branding

🌟 Brand differentiation. Visual branding ensures your business maintains a consistent look across all platforms and communication streams. So, whether that’s your website, social media, or newsletter, the idea is to establish a visual signature that sets your brand apart. This brings us to the next point! 

🌟 Immediate recognition. High-quality and distinctive visuals serve as your brand’s unique identifier. This creates a long-lasting impression that’ll make your audience remember your brand as soon as they see your logo, color palette, or design elements. Talk about being truly unforgettable! 

🌟 Enhanced communication. With the right strategy, visual branding can be the best ally for conveying your business message without using words. The design choices you make will have an impact on how your audience perceives your brand. For example, will your travel aesthetic be adventurous or glamorous? We’ll find out!

🌟 Emotional impact. Strong imagery helps create meaningful associations and evoke feelings like excitement, enthusiasm, or nostalgia. Therefore, visual branding lets you connect with your viewers by nurturing a bond beyond the surface. All in all, this fosters brand loyalty, trust, and credibility.

💡 We’re just getting started! These are our top branding tips for developing an iconic brand.

⭐️ Curating a unique and memorable travel aesthetic will boost your social media presence. Are your creative sparks igniting? The journey is just beginning! In the next section, we’ll break down the key components of visual branding and its significance. Let’s dive in!

At its core, there are 5 essentials to visual branding. While conveying different design requirements, each one is equally important as they’ll ultimately compose a cohesive travel aesthetic . Without further ado, let’s learn about each of them:

Logos use text, images, shapes, and colors to define a distinctive graphic mark for your business. Remember, logos are the first point of contact users have with your brand and first impressions matter.   In other words, your logo should function effectively as a standalone emblem while seamlessly fitting into your overall visual identity. 

Typography ✏️

Yes, words do matter! Especially when communicating the right message for your brand. Yet, there’s much more in store regarding the perfect social media aesthetic. For starters, remember that font pairings shape how your phrasing is perceived. That’s where the font fun begins!

Depending on your choice, typographies can set different tones by evoking emotions and showcasing specific styles.  Additionally, they also play an important role in your content’s overall UX and readability. For example, did you know that serif fonts are often used for headlines as they have good legibility? 

Color Palette 🎨

Just like every destination has its special hue, your brand’s unique color palette can transport your audience to mesmerizing landscapes. From the warm goldens of a sunset to the cool blues of the gentle ocean, each shade evokes profound meanings and emotions. So, it’s time to let your artistic side shine through!

First, think of the imagery you want your brand to convey. Is your traveling aesthetic the thrill of an exciting adventure or the tranquility of a weekend getaway? The right color palette will take your audience on a visual journey. Therefore, when choosing a scheme, consider the following aspects: 

🎨 Brand values

🎨 Travel themes

🎨 Industry trends

🎨 Target audience 

🎨 Visual consistency

🎨 Emotional impact

🎨 Psychology of color

🌈 Let’s take your inspiration to the next level! Check out our dazzling winter color palette for those cool holiday vibes. Or are you searching for beautiful shades that remind you of a warm breeze? Then, take a look at our beautiful summer color palette .

Photos & Illustrations 📷

When creating a travel aesthetic, the world is your canvas (literally!). Think of all the beautiful scenery awaiting you at each destination. Once you’ve documented your trip, consider how your photos and videos can serve as the foundation for different content formats. Yes, it’s time for Insta-worthy posts, stories, and reels! 

Have you ever heard the phrase “a picture is worth a thousand words”? Then, you’ll know this premise shines through on social media. So, ensure every photo reflects your brand, whether photographing a gorgeous landmark or filming your latest adventure. Additionally, you can always use illustrations to complement your aesthetics! 

In whichever case, we highly recommend the following advice:

Graphic Elements 🟪

Graphic elements serve as the building blocks of your fabulous designs. We’re talking about the shapes, lines, patterns, textures, colors, icons, and spaces that contrast and complement each other. Combined, they create a powerful visual narrative consistent with your brand’s identity. 

For instance, sharp lines are often associated with a modern aesthetic and tend to be used in minimalistic and contemporary designs. On the other hand, curves tend to represent softness, conveying a more casual and laid-back approach. To sum up, this means each element adds up when defining your travel aesthetic .

😉🎒✨Love traveling? Then check our 2024 custom travel accessories list to find a fun and profitable niche for your print-on-demand store all year round.

⭐️ Are you eager to start crafting your visual branding but don’t know where to start? We got your back! Let’s review the best strategies for perfecting your Instagram aesthetic (travel edition!).

Establishing a consistent social media aesthetic goes beyond making your Instagram feed look pretty (though it sure will!). It’s also about boosting your online presence, engaging with your audience, and properly communicating what your brand is all about. Here’s our go-to guide for mastering your visual branding:

1. Define Your Brand’s Personality

Before digging into your digital content strategy, it’s important to determine your brand’s unique traits, values, and qualities. This will help you create a voice and style that resonates with your target audience. Moreover, a well-defined brand personality is likelier to be perceived as authentic by viewers. This is particularly relevant when looking to stand out in social media. 

So, ask yourself what’s your brand story and purpose. Furthermore, think about what differentiates it from competitors within the same niche. Are you feeling inspired? Perfect! Here are some brand personality traits you can use as a guideline to define your travel aesthetic .

Adventurous

Spontaneous, 2. create a mood board.

Mood boards serve as visual representations of specific projects, styles, or themes. In this case, you’ll put together your awesome traveling aesthetic . Now, when looking for inspiration, it’s easy to feel lost in a vast sea of ideas. We highly suggest you do this step after nailing down your brand’s identity and personality. Then, the fun part begins! 

Whether you opt for an online or physical mood board, the idea is to conceptualize your vision and set the bigger picture. There are no written rules! So, don’t be afraid to explore different creative approaches. 

For instance, here are some elements you can incorporate into your mood board:

🟩 Illustrations

🟩 Color swatches

🟨 Textures 

3. Choose Your Visual & Design Elements

This part involves selecting the specific font pairing, color palette, photos, illustrations, and graphic elements that’ll be the heart and soul of your visual branding. As we discussed, it’s all about strategizing what you want to communicate and the emotions your travel aesthetic will evoke.

🤔 Not a design expert? Don’t worry! You can always head to Placeit by Envato and browse our gorgeous travel templates . Play around with different colors, fonts, and graphics until you’re happy with the results!

4. Make Your Style Guide

Time to put together all the awesome ideas you came up with! Your style guide will help outline how each visual branding element should be properly used on social media and throughout all your platforms. Therefore, whenever you’re planning new content, you’ll have clear guidelines to steer you through the creative process.

Remember, consistency gives your Instagram aesthetic a cohesive vibe. In other words, it makes it look put together, showcases professionalism, and builds your brand’s presence. Additionally, when followed correctly, your style guide optimizes your time and effort by ensuring your social media content strategy aligns with your travel aesthetic .

Wondering what to include in your style guide? It’s all good! These are a few aspects to keep in mind:

🟣 Logo usage

🟣 Color palette

🟣 Imagery style

🟣 Typography 

🟣 Brand’s voice

⭐️ We’re not done yet! Stay with us for the journey ahead as we explore the best Instagram aesthetics for travel content creators .

Whether you’re an outgoing adventurer or a glamorous jet setter, there’s a traveling aesthetic that’s true to your style. These are our top picks to give your content a branding boost:

Less Is More: Minimalistic Travel Aesthetic 🖤

Minimalism creates a calm, serene atmosphere by embracing neutral tones, clean lines, and geometric shapes. While it may feel “simple” at first sight, it’s really about prioritizing essential design elements. Therefore, this aesthetic makes every detail count by utilizing negative space, monochromatic palettes, and bold font pairings. 

Sounds like your cup of tea? Perfect! Here’s a quick guideline you can follow when going for the “less is more” approach to your different social media content ideas :

Colors: neutral palette (white, gray, and black). 

Photos & Illustrations: opt for open areas and clean frames, look for symmetry and repetition, and include patterns that maintain order and uniformity.

Graphic Elements: use clean lines and simple geometric shapes like squares or rectangles.

Like a breath of fresh air, the boho aesthetic plays with different textures, lovely patterns, and vibrant colors to create a wonderful “mix & match” style. So, this aesthetic is perfect for those who love to share their travel adventures, especially when the destination includes beautiful nature escapades and cozy spots.  It’s all about showcasing a free-spirited vibe!

Looking to achieve that eclectic and bohemian vibe on a travel template? We’ve got you covered:

Colors: nature-inspired color palettes such as earth tones, green, brown, orange, and yellow.

Photos & Illustrations: while you can opt for a theme, this aesthetic doesn’t necessarily have to “match” in a traditional way. Exploring different prints, designs, styles, and colors can nail the boho and eclectic style. 

Graphic elements: play around with leaf and floral patterns, combine neutral textures, and include soft lines and irregular shapes that showcase that eclectic vibe. Layering is encouraged!

✔️ Pro Tip: With its carefree spirit, the boho aesthetic is ideal for showcasing your brand’s more authentic and relatable side. For example, you can share funny anecdotes or behind-the-scene pictures from your trip on your travel blog.

From dazzling city lights to stunning street art, this travel aesthetic is all about bold designs. Moreover, its radiant color palette is often associated with enthusiasm, excitement, and energy. This makes it a great style for captivating and engaging with your viewers through eye-catching and colorful social media content. AKA explore the world in full-color mode!

Do you want to give it a go? Awesome! Here’s how you can make your designs pop with a vibrant travel aesthetic :

Colors: bold color palettes like bright yellows, oranges, or reds, electric blue, and royal purple. 

Photos & Illustrations: strive for high-quality, striking imagery featuring bold fonts and contrasting color schemes. For example, if you’re posting new travel blogs , be sure to include high-resolution pictures of your destination.

Graphic elements: aim for a playful vibe by using colorful geometric patterns and abstract shapes.

✔️ Pro Tip: When picking out your palette, use the color wheel to determine which shades complement each other better. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different combinations!

While modern aesthetics also incorporate minimalistic features like clean lines, the goal is to highlight the idea of innovation. Yes, this is perfect for travel influencers who love urban landscapes! Its style focuses on achieving a “simple” yet polished, functional, and balanced look. When it comes to design, it often features different geometric shapes, as well as bold color palettes and typography.

Planning your next trip? Let’s say you want to post a cool travel plan template that showcases a modern aesthetic. Here are a few pointers you can follow:

Colors: neutrals (white, gray, black) paired with trendy and vibrant tones.

Photos & Illustrations: aim for a style that’s visually appealing and instantly recognizable through high-quality images that focus on proportion and symmetry.

Graphic Elements: include sharp lines and geometric shapes such as circles, squares, and triangles.

✔️ Pro Tip: Craving a pop of color? If you feel your design needs that “special something”, you can use primary colors (red, green, and blue) to include a dash of boldness.

🔥 Content alert! Check out the best tips for creating a brand identity on Instagram.

This travel aesthetic is all about showcasing luxury, sophistication, and elegance. While its designs lean on monochromatic color palettes, they are anything but boring! Its rich patterns and textures embrace the idea of exclusivity, making this style perfect for travelers who are also fashion gurus in search of their couture adventure. 

Colors: monochromatic palettes, neutrals, and soft pastels. 

Photos & Illustrations: when choosing pictures, lean towards images that play with light and clean lines to convey the idea of symmetry and balance. 

Graphic elements: use bold shapes and curves to create glamorous designs with eye-catching silhouettes.

✔️Pro Tip: In need of something more dazzling? Metallic accents like gold or silver can tie together this chic aesthetic.

Before we wrap this up, we wanted to share some Instagram content ideas to get you started on this journey!

Travel Hashtags for Instagram📱

#AmazingDestinations

#InstaTravel

#InstaTraveling

#LoveTravel

#LuxuryTravel

#MyTravelgram

#PostcardsFromTheWorld

#RoamThePlanet

#SoloTravel

#TravelBlog

#TravelBlogger

#TravelDiaries

#TravelDiary

#Travelgram

#Travelholic

#TravelLife

#TravelPhotography

#TravelTheWorld

Travel Content Ideas 💭

Hacks & Advice ✅

• Safety tips
• Packing checklists
• Essential words and phrases

Templates 🖥

• Travel budget template
• Travel itinerary template
• Travel planner template
• Travel bucket list
• Dream boards

Travel Instagram Captions 🌏

• Climb mountains – not so the world can see you, but so you can see the world! 🌄
• Collecting memories, one destination at a time 📸
• Don’t worry, beach happy 🏖️
• Good times & tan lines 🌴
• High tides & good vibes 🌊
• I do believe it’s time for another adventure 😌
• I feel most at home when I’m exploring the world 🗺
• I followed my heart, and it led me to the airport ✈️
• I haven’t been everywhere, but it’s on my list ✨
• Keep calm and travel on 😀
• Making memories all over the world 🌍
• Memories in the making ❣️
• New destination unlocked 🔓
• The biggest adventure you can take is to live the life of your dreams 💗
• Vitamin SEA 🐚
• What’s on my bucket list? Everywhere 👌🏻

By this point, you’ve probably chosen an awesome travel aesthetic that goes with your brand’s style, personality, and goals. So, why not complement it with some Insta-worthy posts and stories, and documenting your journey? From finding a flight to exploring incredible destinations, there’s an incredible adventure waiting for you out there! Of course, we’re here to help every step of the way. At Placeit by Envato , you can always find endless inspiration, resources, and expert tutorials to fuel your creative journey. 

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Travel Aesthetic Guide – Create Visual Experience from the Trip

Travel aesthetic guide. The beauty, charm, and unique qualities of your next destination. Start your visual planning with this guide.

From natural landscapes to graffiti-ridden streets, travel aesthetic is a chance to showcase a visual representation of your trip.

So, naturally, in this guide, I will describe all the areas of this beautiful aspect of travel.

The goal is for you to already start visualizing the trip so you can make the right planning for it.

Let’s go!

Table of Contents

What Is Travel Aesthetic?

Travel aesthetic refers to the visual and sensory experiences we travelers encounter during our trips.

So, it includes the beauty, charm, and unique qualities of a destination.

For instance, its natural landscapes, architectural marvels, and cultural expressions.

Likewise, the seasonal transformations and other elements that contribute to the overall appeal and allure of travel.

Travel aesthetics are visually appealing on platforms like Pinterest, Instagram, and YouTube because they offer a window into captivating destinations and experiences.

For example, the stunning imagery, vibrant colors, and enticing scenes evoke a sense of wanderlust.

As a result, they inspire viewers to explore new places and create a desire to embark on their own travel adventures.

Meanwhile, planning for travel aesthetics can enhance your overall experience.

Researching and choosing destinations known for their picturesque landscapes, iconic landmarks, and cultural expressions can ensure you capture visually appealing moments.

Planning the right time and activities can optimize your chances of encountering enchanting scenes and enriching travel memories.

So, using the following areas, plan your aesthetic experience!

Natural Landscapes

Nature’s allure has an undeniable hold on the hearts of travelers, inspiring journeys to picturesque landscapes that boast breathtaking scenic vistas.

Consider Hawaii , for example.

These vast and majestic mountains, reaching high into the heavens, compel us to stand in awe of their grandeur.

Serene lakes, their glassy surfaces reflecting the surrounding beauty, beckon visitors to find tranquility amidst their shores.

Amidst the lush embrace of forests, a symphony of greenery and wildlife captivates the senses, igniting a desire to explore the mysteries hidden within.

Sandy beaches, stretching endlessly along the coastline, entice adventurers to bask in the warmth of the sun and embrace the rhythmic melody of crashing waves.

So, in nature’s theater of wonders, travelers find solace and inspiration, a sanctuary to escape the hustle of everyday life.

Here, time seems to slow, and the spirit finds peace as the soul reconnects with the simplicity of the world’s natural wonders.

For many, this magnetic allure becomes the driving force behind their wanderlust.

The desire to witness and experience the ethereal beauty of these natural landscapes propels them to traverse continents and cross seas.

In the end, the beauty of the world’s diverse landscapes reminds us of our place in a vast and awe-inspiring universe, stirring a profound sense of appreciation and humility within each traveler’s heart.

Architectural Marvels

In the tapestry of travel aesthetics, historic monuments like the Pyramids of Giza stand as enduring witnesses to the passage of time .

It’s like they’re narrating captivating tales of civilizations’ past.

These architectural marvels, with their intricate designs and grandeur, evoke a sense of wonder and admiration for the craftsmanship of our ancestors.

For example, as we explore the ancient ruins, we are transported back in time.

As a result, we feel a sense of connecting with the footsteps of those who once inhabited these hallowed grounds.

The remnants of lost civilizations invite contemplation on the impermanence of human endeavors and the resilience of the human spirit.

So, iconic landmarks, recognizable symbols of cities and nations, hold a special place in our collective consciousness.

For instance, they serve as beacons, guiding travelers to discover the heart and soul of a place.

Each edifice, with its unique architectural style and historical significance, tells a story of a bygone era, leaving an indelible mark on the present.

Amidst the traditional buildings that line quaint streets, the cultural identity of a place comes alive.

Likewise, the unique blend of architectural influences reflects the diverse heritage of a region, celebrating the fusion of artistry and functionality.

In these architectural wonders, we witness not only the mastery of design and engineering but also the spirit of creativity that transcends generations.

Each structure serves as a testament to the ingenuity and ambition of humanity, reminding us that even as time marches forward, the echoes of our craftsmanship endure.

Through these tangible expressions of history and culture, travelers find themselves immersed in the richness of the past, fostering a deeper appreciation for the diversity and interconnectedness of our global heritage.

Culture and Traditions

In the intricate fabric of travel aesthetics, traditional customs weave threads of uniqueness and authenticity into the tapestry of exploration.

Think about Hinduism , for example.

Embracing the customs and rituals of a place offers a profound glimpse into the soul of its people, revealing the values and beliefs that have withstood the test of time.

Colorful festivals paint vibrant strokes on the canvas of travel memories, where locals and visitors alike gather in jubilation, celebrating their shared heritage.

The pulsating rhythms of music and dance create an atmosphere of unity and joy, inviting travelers to join in the revelry and forge connections beyond language and borders.

For example, indigenous arts and crafts embody the skillful hands and creative spirit of generations past.

So, each intricately crafted piece tells a story, preserving cultural narratives and artistic expressions unique to the region.

Delving into the world of local craftsmanship allows travelers to appreciate the artistry and labor behind these timeless treasures.

The exploration of local cuisine is a sensory journey where flavors and aromas awaken the palate to new tastes and culinary traditions.

Each dish bears the essence of the land, a fusion of history and environment, and a testament to the resourcefulness of people adapting to their surroundings.

Cultural performances, whether traditional dances, theater, or storytelling, transport audiences to different realms.

The stage becomes a portal to myths, legends, and folklore, conveying life lessons and moral values handed down through generations.

Immersing oneself in the local culture is not just an optional add-on to the travel experience; it is the essence of meaningful exploration.

By engaging with customs, festivals, arts, cuisine, and performances, travelers become part of a broader narrative, bridging gaps between cultures and fostering mutual respect and understanding.

Street Scenes and Markets

The beating heart of a destination comes alive through the bustling energy of its street life, where the pulse of daily existence reverberates in the air.

Amidst the urban symphony of footsteps, honking horns, and laughter, travelers can immerse themselves in the authentic rhythm of the city.

So, local markets , such as Christmas ones, are vibrant and diverse. As a result, they stand as veritable treasures troves of culture and commerce.

Stalls overflowing with colorful produce, aromatic spices, and artisanal crafts beckon passersby to explore their offerings.

The interplay of colors and textures in these markets is a feast for the eyes, reflecting the richness of a community’s traditions and tastes.

As travelers weave through the bustling lanes, they witness the choreography of daily interactions – vendors haggling, customers bargaining, and the exchange of smiles that transcend language barriers.

In these moments, the soul of the destination is laid bare, and the essence of its people shines through.

The unique travel aesthetic is brought to life by the vibrant atmosphere that permeates these street settings.

It’s a symphony of sensory delights, where the aromas of street food mingle with the sounds of chatter and laughter, forming an unforgettable collage of experiences.

Beyond the famous landmarks and tourist attractions, the streets and markets offer authentic glimpses into the daily life of a place.

In the ever-changing dance of life on the streets and in the markets, travelers find themselves woven into the tapestry of a destination’s essence.

It is in these candid moments that the beauty of travel lies – in the connection forged with the soul of a place, in the shared humanity that transcends borders, and in the discovery of the extraordinary in the seemingly ordinary.

Sunrises and Sunsets

Witnessing the sun’s daily performance, as it gracefully rises and sets over iconic landscapes, is a spellbinding encounter that awakens a sense of wonder in travelers’ hearts.

This is especially great if it’s at the beach .

In these fleeting moments, the heavens put on a breathtaking display, painting the canvas of the sky with an ever-shifting palette of colors.

The sky transforms, transitioning from the ethereal hues of dawn to the warm embrace of twilight, casting a mesmerizing glow upon the surroundings.

As the first rays of sunlight pierce through the horizon, the world stirs to life, unveiling its beauty anew.

Shadows retreat, and nature slowly comes to life, welcoming the promise of a new day.

The golden hour of sunrise is a photographer’s dream, as it bathes landscapes in a soft, diffused light, highlighting every intricate detail and casting a warm, enchanting ambiance.

Conversely, the sun’s descent at sunset is a poetic spectacle, creating a symphony of colors that dance across the sky.

The glowing orb dips below the horizon, leaving behind a tapestry of crimson, orange, and purple hues that reflect in lakes and seas, turning them into mirror-like surfaces.

So, the landscape becomes a living canvas painted with nature’s brilliance, leaving spectators in awe of the beauty that unfolds before them.

These magical moments during travel inspire contemplation and reflection, connecting travelers to the cycles of nature and the grandeur of the universe.

Capturing these photogenic instants on camera is an attempt to immortalize the fleeting beauty, but the true essence of the experience lies in being fully present, surrendering to the enchantment of the sun’s performance, and cherishing the memories of those captivating sunrises and sunsets forever.

Street Art and Graffiti

In cities across the globe, hidden in plain sight, lies a vibrant world of street art that breathes life and creativity into the urban landscape.

Ordinary walls and buildings are transformed into colorful canvases, speaking a language of artistic expression that resonates with passersby.

So, in this open-air gallery, the streets become a stage for artists to communicate their visions, their emotions, and their stories.

Every stroke of spray paint and brush holds a deeper meaning, reflecting the pulse of the local culture and the ever-evolving social issues of the community.

Street art becomes a visual dialogue between artists and the city, a conversation that transcends traditional barriers of communication.

It echoes the struggles, triumphs, and dreams of a people, inviting viewers to contemplate and engage with the world around them.

Beyond mere aesthetics, street art represents a raw and unfiltered form of self-expression.

It challenges conventions and norms, provoking thought and igniting conversations about the complexities of life.

The walls become a canvas for dissent, hope, and solidarity, uniting strangers under a shared appreciation for art’s power to evoke emotion and drive change.

While some may see it as rebellious, street art has the uncanny ability to capture the essence of a place, capturing the pulse of its people and becoming an integral part of its cultural identity.

It is an invitation to look beyond the surface, to see the city with fresh eyes, and to discover the hidden gems woven into the fabric of the streets.

Seasonal Changes

A destination, like a chameleon, dons a new cloak of beauty with each changing season, enchanting travelers with diverse travel aesthetics throughout the year.

As spring unfurls its tender buds, the landscape is adorned with delicate cherry blossoms, painting a picturesque scene of renewal and hope.

The air becomes fragrant with the promise of warmer days ahead, inviting leisurely strolls amidst nature’s floral tapestry.

So, in the embrace of summer, the destination reveals its vivacious side.

The sun-kissed days beckon travelers to indulge in outdoor adventures, whether basking on sandy beaches, hiking through lush forests, or exploring charming villages bustling with life.

The vibrant hues of nature stand on full display, and the world feels alive with energy and vitality.

With the arrival of autumn, the landscape undergoes a breathtaking transformation.

Trees don their fiery coats of red, orange, and gold, creating a mesmerizing display of colors.

As the leaves gently fall to the ground, travelers witness nature’s poetic farewell to the warm embrace of summer, heralding a time of reflection and introspection.

Winter’s arrival wraps the destination in a serene embrace of tranquility.

The soft, white blanket of snow transforms the surroundings into a winter wonderland, evoking a sense of enchantment and wonder.

Adventurers embrace the opportunity for winter sports and cozy moments by the fireplace while the world seems to slow down, inviting contemplation and appreciation of the simple joys in life.

Each season has its charm, offering travelers a unique experience and a fresh perspective on a destination they may have known before.

The ever-changing canvas of nature’s beauty reminds us of the cyclical nature of life.

How to Plan for Travel Aesthetic

Planning for an aesthetic travel experience involves careful consideration and intentionality to ensure your journey is filled with visually captivating and enriching moments.

Here are some steps to help you plan for an aesthetic travel adventure.

Start by researching destinations known for their scenic beauty, iconic landmarks, and cultural richness.

Likewise, look for places that align with your aesthetic preferences and interests.

Similarly, consider the best time to visit your chosen destinations to capture the most visually appealing moments.

Seasons, festivals, and special events can significantly impact the aesthetics of a place.

Meanwhile, select accommodations that offer picturesque views or unique architectural elements, adding to the overall aesthetic experience.

Plan an itinerary that allows you to explore a diverse range of aesthetic elements, including natural landscapes, historical sites, local art scenes, and cultural performances.

While planning is essential, leave room for spontaneity.

For example, some of the most beautiful travel moments happen unexpectedly, so be open to exploring off-the-beaten-path locations and encountering unplanned experiences.

Engaging with local artistic expressions adds depth to your travel experience.

Bring along a camera or smartphone to capture the beauty you encounter.

Photography is a wonderful way to document and share your aesthetic travel journey with others.

Therefore, allow yourself to be present and appreciative of the aesthetics around you.

Engaging with locals allows you to gain insights into local aesthetics and perspectives.

Participate in cultural activities and engage in conversations to understand the aesthetics from their point of view.

When curating your aesthetic travel experience, embrace simplicity and minimalism.

Focus on quality experiences over quantity, allowing the beauty of each moment to shine through.

Ultimately, planning for an aesthetic travel experience involves a balance of research, intentionality, and spontaneity.

Travel Aesthetic – Final Thoughts

So, travel aesthetics is subjective, and what one person finds visually appealing or enchanting may differ from someone else’s preferences.

Ultimately, the beauty of travel lies in its diversity and the opportunity to encounter something new and inspiring in every journey.

However, in this guide, you learned what it is, the types of it you can find around the world, and even how to plan for it.

Now, all you have to do is go out there and do it!

AJ Paris  is a travel photographer based in New York. He is the editor of  Caravanzers .

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Discover the Traveling Aesthetic: Inspiring Tips and Ideas

28 December 2023

Are you looking to enhance the visual appeal of your travel experiences? Look no further than the concept of the “travelling aesthetic.” This term encompasses the combination of travel and aesthetics, with a focus on capturing beautiful travel moments, finding trendy destinations, and curating a stylish travel wardrobe.

When searching for information or inspiration related to the travelling aesthetic, people may be looking for tips on travel photography, fashion, accessories, or destinations with a specific aesthetic appeal. By incorporating these elements into your travel experiences, you can create a visually pleasing and memorable trip.

Join us as we explore inspiring tips and ideas for enhancing your visual travel experiences through the travelling aesthetic. From stunning photography to trendy destinations and stylish outfits, we’ll help you curate a travel experience that is both beautiful and unforgettable.

Table of Contents

The Importance of Visual Travel

Traveling is not just about visiting new places and experiencing different cultures. It is also about capturing the beauty of the world through our eyes and lenses. Visual travel is an essential aspect of traveling that allows us to appreciate the world’s aesthetics and create lasting memories.

Tips for Capturing the Perfect Shot

To capture the perfect shot, you need to have a keen eye for detail and a good understanding of composition. Here are some tips to help you take stunning photos during your travels :

Exploring New Destinations

Travelling Aesthetic

Embarking on a journey to unfamiliar places can be exhilarating and eye-opening. Whether it’s a bustling city or a serene countryside, the thrill of discovering new landscapes and cultures is unmatched.

Traveling Aesthetic: Inspiring Tips and Ideas for Visual Travel

Traveling with a Purpose

When embarking on a visual travel journey, it’s essential to have a clear purpose in mind. Whether it’s capturing the vibrant colors of a bustling market or the serene beauty of a natural landscape, having a specific focus will help guide your creative vision.

Immersing Yourself in Local Culture

Immerse yourself in the local culture to truly capture the essence of a place. Engage with the people, taste the local cuisine, and explore off-the-beaten-path locations to discover unique visual treasures.

Exploring Diverse Landscapes

From the towering peaks of majestic mountains to the tranquil shores of pristine beaches, exploring diverse landscapes will provide endless opportunities for stunning visual imagery. Don’t be afraid to venture off the tourist trail and seek out hidden gems.

Seeking Inspiration in Nature

Immerse yourself in the beauty of natural landscapes, from majestic mountains to serene beaches.

Exploring Urban Art and Architecture

Discover the vibrant street art and stunning architecture of bustling cities around the world.

As you embark on your visual travel journey, remember to keep an open mind and a keen eye for the unique and beautiful. Whether you’re capturing the colors of a bustling market or the intricate details of a historic building, each moment is an opportunity to create stunning visual memories. Embrace the diversity of the world around you and let it inspire your own artistic expression. With a little creativity and a lot of curiosity, your travels can become a visual masterpiece.

Capturing the Moment

Traveling is an opportunity to capture the beauty of the world around us. Whether it’s through photography, painting, or sketching, there are endless ways to document our experiences.

Embracing the Local Culture

Immerse yourself in the local culture and traditions to truly capture the essence of a place. Engage with the locals, try the traditional cuisine, and participate in local activities to gain a deeper understanding of the destination.

Exploring Unique Perspectives

Experiment with different angles, lighting, and compositions to create visually stunning travel images. Look for unique vantage points and perspectives to capture the essence of a place in a new and exciting way.

Creating a Visual Story

Traveling with a purpose, exploring local art scenes, embracing cultural diversity, seeking unique architecture, embracing the power of color, experimenting with different perspectives, and creating a visual story are all essential elements of a visually inspiring travel experience.

Capturing the Beauty of Nature

Traveling to picturesque destinations allows you to capture stunning landscapes and natural wonders. From the majestic mountains to the serene beaches, there are endless opportunities to capture the beauty of nature. Whether it’s the vibrant colors of a sunset or the intricate details of a flower, visual travel provides endless inspiration for photographers and artists alike.

Exploring different environments and ecosystems can also offer unique perspectives and compositions for your visual creations. From the lush rainforests to the barren deserts, each location presents its own set of visual opportunities. By immersing yourself in the natural world, you can capture the essence of each location and share its beauty with others.

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Experience the Magic of Travel Aesthetics: A Visual Delight

🌟table of contents🌟, the power of visual stimulation in travel, discovering your personal travel aesthetic, your aesthetic choices for the journey, local aesthetics, transforming journeys into immersive visual delights.

Ever noticed how travel can feel like pure magic? It takes a regular trip and turns it into something super captivating. That’s what we’re talking about in this blog post – travel aesthetics . It’s all about how the way things look and feel during your travels can totally change the game, making memories that stick around forever. Ready for some travel magic? Let’s dive in and see how it works!🎆

Travel aesthetics is not just about capturing stunning photographs.📷 It’s about experiencing the essence of a place, its culture, and its ambiance in the most visually appealing manner. It’s about the colors, textures, and patterns that create a distinctive palette for every location you visit, setting the stage for your personal travel narrative.

As travelers we all know how important visuals are when it comes to creating unforgettable experiences. From bustling markets awash in vibrant colors to sweeping vistas that take our breath away and ornate buildings steeped in history and culture these sights have a way of cementing themselves in our memories like little else can. And as science has shown us there’s good reason for this – visual stimulation triggers an uptick in feel good hormones that enhance overall enjoyment of travel.

That means if you really want to get the most out of your journeys it pays to keep an eye out for all the little details that make a place unique and special.

Everyone’s aesthetic preferences vary. Some may be drawn towards the rustic charm of rural landscapes, while others might resonate with the dynamic vibe of cityscapes. Discovering your personal travel aesthetic involves introspection and understanding what visuals, colors, textures, and patterns resonate with you.🧠

Experimenting with different travel settings, documenting your experiences, and reflecting on what visually stimulates you can help refine your travel aesthetic. In this way, you can make more informed decisions about your future travel destinations, ensuring a more personally fulfilling experience.

Incorporating your travel aesthetic into your itinerary is an excellent way to ensure that each aspect of your trip aligns perfectly with your personal style. Whether its selecting ideal accommodations or choosing destinations and activities that speak directly to you having a clear sense of what appeals most can transform the entire experience. Your aesthetic preferences may even affect when you choose to travel; for instance, if pastel hues are particularly appealing visiting Japan during cherry blossom season would certainly be worth considering.

Your aesthetic choices can also extend to your travel wardrobe, accessories, and the kind of souvenirs you collect. 💅 All of these contribute to creating a more immersive, aesthetically pleasing travel experience.

While personal aesthetics can guide your journey, embracing local aesthetics allows you to connect more deeply with the place. It involves appreciating the region’s architectural style, color scheme, flora, local attire, and more.🥐

For example, the vibrant hues of Indian markets, the minimalistic aesthetics of Japanese Zen gardens, or the rustic charm of Tuscan villages each offer a unique visual feast. By embracing these aesthetics, you not only enrich your travel experience but also develop a deeper appreciation for the world’s diversity.

Travel aesthetics holds the power to transform ordinary trips into visually captivating experiences, immersing travelers in their surroundings. By understanding visual stimulation, embracing personal aesthetic preferences, and appreciating local aesthetics, travelers can enrich their overall experience.

Beyond being mere journeys, travel aesthetics allows travelers to witness the world’s stunning forms and create lasting memories that match the visual wonders encountered. So, as you embark on new travels, remember to appreciate the beauty around you, adding depth to your experiences.🏛️

Your creative expression becomes your tool to discover beauty in undiscovered places. Your perception is key to maximizing each travel experience, allowing you to connect, create memories, and add depth to your journeys.

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Most popular travel aesthetics inspiring holidaymakers for 2023

Contributors are not employed, compensated or governed by TDM, opinions and statements are from the contributor directly

If you’re not regularly scrolling on TikTok or creating boards on Pinterest, you may not be aware of what a ‘travel aesthetic’ is, but it’s a trend that is inspiring Gen-Zs to travel the world.    

A travel aesthetic is all about creating a mood board, of either a collection of pictures or videos, that encapsulates a country or destination. The images chosen aim to distil the essence of a location, from local cuisine to breathtaking viewpoints, to the fashion and culture of the area. Interest in travel aesthetics is skyrocketing, with searches up 81% in the past two years according to Google data.  

Swimwear brand  Pour Moi  has analysed data to reveal the countries and destinations around the world that have the most popular travel aesthetic for 2023, using both Google search and Pinterest board data.  

The study revealed that Japan is the country with the most popular travel aesthetic, with videos and images of the aesthetic including a mix of neon lights, crowded streets, blush pink blossoms and lush green forests.  

Three European countries follow in the top 20; Greece, France and Italy. With 9,099 searches and Pinterest boards, Greece’s travel aesthetic features the country’s famed colour palette of white-washed buildings and bright blue seas, with pops of pink bougainvillaea, alongside historic architecture of ancient ruins.  

France’s travel aesthetic has gained 9,097 searches and boards and encompasses the fine art and chic fashion of the cities, alongside the relaxed vibes and vineyards of the countryside. In third place, Italy’s travel aesthetic unsurprisingly features their famous cuisine in much of the Italy aesthetic imagery – pizza, pasta, cannoli, gelato and Aperols are all seen regularly, against a backdrop of historic buildings and glorious views.   

India has the fifth most popular travel aesthetic, with 7,697 searches and boards. The visuals often include vibrant colours of saris, flowers and spices coupled with iconic landmarks like the Taj Mahal. Other Asian countries included in the top 20 are China (8 th ), Singapore (16 th ) and South Korea (19 th ). 

The only South American country in the top 20 is Brazil at 6 th  place, and the only African country featured is Egypt at 13 th  place.  

Top 20 travel aesthetics by country (based on Google searches and Pinterest boards)

Japan, Asia – 23,198  

Greece, Europe – 9,099  

France, Europe – 9,097  

Italy, Europe – 7,996  

India, Asia – 7,697  

Brazil, South America – 5,362  

Mexico, North America – 4,995  

China, Asia – 4,062  

England, Europe – 3,864  

Spain, Europe – 3,602  

USA, North America – 2,767  

Germany, Europe – 2,689  

Egypt, Africa – 2,143  

Australia, Oceania – 2,039  

Canada, North America – 1,984  

Singapore, Asia – 1,701  

Ireland, Europe – 1,361  

Switzerland, Europe – 1,339  

South Korea, Asia – 1,193 

Turkey, Europe – 1,186   

The ‘city of love’ has been revealed as the destination with the most popular travel aesthetic, with stunning sunset images of Montmartre, snaps of delicious Parisian food and shots of the iconic Eiffel Tower from all over the city featuring heavily in the travel aesthetic imagery.  

New York is the second most popular city travel aesthetic, with sunrises over the city, Manhattan Bridge and the beautiful autumnal hues in Central Park filling Pinterest boards as people get inspired for their upcoming trips. The UK’s capital London follows in third place, with images portraying the historic streets adorned with pillar box red phone boxes, eye-catching red buses and beautiful buildings. 

Whilst Japan might be the most pinned and searched for when it comes to country aesthetics, the capital Tokyo ranks as the fourth most popular city globally. The coastal city of Miami is the fifth most popular travel aesthetic city, with bright lifeguard huts lining the beaches and images of some of the stunning hotels filling Pinterest boards. 

There are in fact five US cities featuring in the top 10 with Los Angeles, Chicago and Las Vegas also amongst some of the most popular cities travellers are searching for and pinning as they look for inspiration for their future trips. 

Top 10 travel aesthetics by city (based on Google searches and Pinterest boards)

Paris, France – 15,798 

New York, US – 15,797 

London, England – 7,596 

Tokyo, Japan – 4,515 

Miami, US – 4,063 

Los Angeles, US – 3,467 

Seoul, South Korea – 2,731 

Dubai, United Arab Emirates – 2,719 

Chicago, US – 2,307 

Las Vegas, US – 2,107 

The trend however has come with a warning from travel experts, who love the idea of people enjoying travel aesthetic content, but warn that it could lead to disappointed travellers. James Chapman, an independent Travel Counsellor, comments:

“Anything that gets people excited about travel and exploring new places is great, and part of the enjoyment of a holiday is the pre-trip planning around where to go and what to see. However, I think we need to be careful about being caught out with unrealistic expectations. Anywhere that is heavily featured on social media will often be busy with tourists, and there’s always the risk it won’t live up to the perfect online images. Besides, sometimes the most truly breathtaking and beautiful places are those off the beaten track and aren’t on everyone’s mood boards yet.”

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What’s Your Travel Aesthetic?

by Aoife O'Riordan

Drift © Erin Ferinblatt

Destinations / North America

Whether you gravitate toward a Barbiecore vacation or a coastal getaway, finding your travel niche is important and lets you experience the best of each destination and hotel. Not sure what your travel aesthetic is? Here are some popular travel aesthetics that just might suit you:

Coastal Cowgirl

Defined as a laidback, beachy essence of a coastal grandma with a Western spin, this vibe exudes Palm Springs, California. Take a dreamy desert getaway to Palm Springs and stay at Drift where you can channel your inner coastal cowgirl. At Drift, trendy desert styles with Baja roots create a calming environment through neutral tones and timeless décor. Cowgirl elements continue at the hotel’s on-site, Baja-inspired restaurant Maleza, as well as in details like fire pits, cacti plants, resort-style pool with cabanas, yoga mats and views of the San Jacinto mountains.

© Tempo by Hilton Times Square

Corporate Girl

Are you a well-traveled person who prefers a modern and sophisticated destination? It might come as no surprise New York City is the ultimate hub for the corporate traveler with distinct fashions, trendy culinary experiences and well-designed hubs. Just steps away from the city’s top attractions is Tempo by Hilton Times Square , a new property opening this August. As the first of Hilton’s contemporary global lifestyle brand, this property sets a new standard for business travel with spacious guestrooms, each with a dedicated Get Ready Zone featuring a large desk, illuminated mirror and stocked minibar. The hotel will also boast nine wellness-themed rooms complete with a Peloton bike, yoga mat and Therabody products. On-site restaurant Highball invites guests to dine on its terrace overlooking Times Square before transforming into a swanky cocktail lounge by night.

© The Don CeSar

If you find yourself gravitating toward pink-themed, vibrant destinations, look no further than St. Petersburg Beach’s Don CeSar , also known as The Pink Palace. This iconic pink hotel opened at the height of The Great Gatsby era in 1928 and has drawn travelers ever since. Considered a real-life Barbie dream house, staying at this hotel means lounging by the beach, sipping on a strawberry daquiri, enjoying the hotel’s exclusive rosé poolside and sleeping in its luxurious guestrooms and suites.

The Crossroads Inn © Sera Petras Photography

Cottage Core

Some like to celebrate simple living in the countryside, where the line between indoor and outdoor living is nearly nonexistent. In Charlottesville, Virginia, you’ll find The Crossroads Inn at Pippin Hill Farm & Vineyards, a simple but luxurious property. Book at stay at the Inn’s early 19 th -century Pippin Cottage, the original cooking kitchen for the Inn. The recently restored cottage spans two floors and features a spacious bedroom, bath, kitchen, living area and private deck overlooking the vineyard and hills. Near the inn, enjoy a variety of wine tastings and cooking classes or choose to sip on tasty wine and indulge in fresh dishes in room while living your cottage dreams.

© High Hill

Tomato Girl

Do Mediterranean vibes appeal to you? You know, the breezy, casual spots exuding the ultimate out-of-office energy? At High Hill in Piney Woods, Texas, you can stay in this quiet hideaway and experience a rejuvenating retreat. Located on a 175-acre farm and resort community, High Hill embraces slow living with its Mediterranean-inspired vacation rentals and cottages, vineyards, farm-to-table restaurant and gardens with an abundance of summer produce (including, of course, tomatoes). Whether you go on a sunset walk, read a book poolside or enjoy a picnic in the pasture, High Hill is the place to be for tomato girls.

© The Dupont Circle Hotel

Quiet Luxury

Don’t think we forgot about those of you who like to be in the middle of a busy destination but still have access to quiet sanctuaries! In Washington, D.C., The Dupont Circle Hotel welcomes travelers who resonate with the quiet luxury travel aesthetic. These travelers like chic and understated vibes exuding a quiet confidence, and this 5-star property does just that with a Mid Century-inspired cocktail lounge and Michelin-recommended restaurant serving European-style fare. The hotel boasts nine penthouse-level suites, including the grand penthouse suite, which spans 3,000 square feet with two bedrooms, an in-room bar, heated outdoor terrace with firepit and views of the Capitol.

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‘Travel Aesthetics’ Trend – Most Popular Country Aesthetic Revealed

If you’re not regularly scrolling on TikTok or creating boards on Pinterest, you may not be aware of what a ‘travel aesthetic’ is, but it’s a trend that is inspiring Gen-Zs to travel the world.   

A travel aesthetic is all about creating a mood board, of either a collection of pictures or videos, that encapsulates a country or destination. The images chosen aim to distil the essence of a location, from local cuisine, to breath-taking view points, to the fashion and culture of the area. Interest in travel aesthetics are sky-rocketing, with searches up 81% in the past two years according to Google data.   

Swimwear brand Pour Moi has analysed data to reveal the countries and destinations around the world that have the most popular travel aesthetic for 2023, using both Google search and Pinterest board data.   

Japan has the most popular travel aesthetic of 2023   

The study revealed that Japan is the country with the most popular travel aesthetic, with videos and images of the aesthetic including a mix of neon lights, crowded streets, blush pink blossoms and lush green forests.   

Three European countries follow in the top 20; Greece, France and Italy. With 9,099 searches and Pinterest boards, Greece’s travel aesthetic features the country’s famed color palette of white-washed buildings and bright blue seas, with pops of pink bougainvillaea, alongside historic architecture of ancient ruins.   

France’s travel aesthetic has gained 9,097 searches and boards and encompasses the fine art and chic fashion of the cities, alongside the relaxed vibes and vineyards of the countryside. In third place, Italy’s travel aesthetic unsurprisingly features their famous cuisine in much of the Italy aesthetic imagery – pizza, pasta, cannoli, gelato and Aperols are all seen regularly, against a backdrop of historic buildings and glorious views.    

India has the fifth most popular travel aesthetic, with 7,697 searches and boards. The visuals often include vibrant colours of saris, flowers and spices coupled with iconic landmarks like the Taj Mahal. Other Asian countries included in the top 20 are China (8th), Singapore (16th) and South Korea (19th). 

The only South American country in the top 20 is Brazil at 6th place, and the only African country featured is Egypt at 13th place.   

Top 20 travel aesthetics countries (based on Google searches and Pinterest boards)

Paris is the city with the most popular travel aesthetic   

The ‘city of love’ has been revealed as the destination with the most popular travel aesthetic, with stunning sunset images of Montmartre, snaps of delicious Parisian food and shots of the iconic Eiffel Tower from all over the city featuring heavily in the travel aesthetic imagery.   

New York is the second most popular city travel aesthetic, with sunrises over the city, Manhattan Bridge and the beautiful autumnal hues in Central Park filling Pinterest boards as people get inspired for their upcoming trips. The UK’s capital London follows in third place, with images portraying the historic streets adorned with pillar box red phone boxes, eye-catching red buses and beautiful buildings.  

Whilst Japan might be the most pinned and searched for when it comes to country aesthetics, the capital Tokyo ranks as the fourth most popular city globally. The coastal city of Miami is the fifth most popular travel aesthetic city, with bright lifeguard huts lining the beaches and images of some of the stunning hotels filling Pinterest boards.  

There are in fact five US cities featuring in the top 10 with Los Angeles, Chicago and Las Vegas also amongst some of the most popular cities travellers are searching for and pinning as they look for inspiration for their future trips.  

Top 10 travel aesthetics cities (based on Google searches and Pinterest boards)  

The trend however has come with a warning from travel experts, who love the idea of people enjoying travel aesthetic content, but warn that it could lead to disappointed travelers. James Chapman, an independent Travel Counselor, comments:

“Anything that gets people excited about travel and exploring new places is great, and part of the enjoyment of a holiday is the pre-trip planning around where to go and what to see. However, I think we need to be careful about being caught out with unrealistic expectations. Anywhere that is heavily featured on social media will often be busy with tourists, and there’s always the risk it won’t live up to the perfect online images. Besides, sometimes the most truly breathtaking and beautiful places are those off the beaten track and aren’t on everyone’s mood boards yet.” 

More information on the most popular travel aesthetic destinations can be found here: https://www.pourmoi.co.uk/nowtrending/now-trending-most-popular-travel-aesthetics-in-the-world

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Most Popular Aesthetic Destinations To Visit, According To Travelers

Social media influences travel decisions, particularly with the current trend of 'travel aesthetics' dominating Instagram and TikTok.

Brunno Braga • Nov 22, 2023

As winter begins, daydreams of the next vacation flood the thoughts of those ready for a getaway. Whether seeking winter sun or planning a summer escape, social media significantly influences travel decisions, particularly with the current trend of ‘travel aesthetics’ dominating Instagram and TikTok. These aesthetics, virtual mood boards capturing the essence of a destination, have witnessed an 81% increase in searches over the past two years. To identify the top trending aesthetics globally, Pour Moi, a leading travel and lifestyle brand, conducted a comprehensive analysis using Google searches and Pinterest pins.

Japan Leads the List

Pour Moi’s survey reveals that Japan emerges as the leader. The country had an impressive 23,198 searches and Pinterest boards. Japan surpassed Greece and France, securing the second and third positions with nearly identical scores of 9,099 and 9,097, respectively. Italy claims the fourth spot, making Europe the favored continent for travel aesthetics. India rounds out the top five. It scored 7,697 searches. Other Asian countries like China, Singapore, South Korea, Thailand, Indonesia, and the Philippines also feature prominently.

In North America, Mexico surpasses the United States and Canada in travel aesthetic popularity. Australia outshines New Zealand in Oceania. The sole African representative is Egypt, boasting 2,143 searches and boards for its historic aesthetic.

Most Popular Cities for Travel Aesthetics

Among major cities, Paris takes the lead as the most popular travel aesthetic, closely followed by New York. London, Tokyo, and Miami complete the top five. Notably, U.S. cities dominate the top 20, with Los Angeles, Chicago, Las Vegas, Boston, San Francisco, and Seattle making appearances.

The survey underscores the undeniable allure of travel aesthetics, with a balanced approach ensuring a more fulfilling travel experience. As you plan your next getaway, be mindful of the potential disparity between online perfection and on-ground reality, as highlighted by the Pour Moi travel data.

Adding to the aesthetics conversation, there are some insights into distinctive accommodations that embody specific aesthetics. From the Plazacore Aesthetic at Lenox Hill in New York to the Coquette Aesthetic at Villa Atia in Lombardy, Lake Como, these unique lodgings offer an immersive experience into various aesthetic lifestyles.

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How ‘travel aesthetics’ are ruining travel for everyone

Social media is overflowing with picture-perfect travel imagery. But the #travelaesthetic trend is a problem for destinations – and for travellers too

Earlier this month, an American writer went low-key viral for a piece in which she complained about how much she hated her time studying abroard in Florence . ‘I grew to despise the sights, hated the people, and couldn't wait to get back home,’ wrote Stacia Datskovska.

The problem? Her time in Italy failed to live up to her  dolce vita fantasy: ‘fun potluck dinners with my roommates, summer flings with people who called me “bella,” gelato that dripped down my fingers in the heat, and natural wine that paired effortlessly with good conversation and better prosciutto’. Compared to that, real life – even somewhere as gorgeous as Florence – could hardly fail to be a letdown.

It’s a classic case of mismatched expectations. And you know what? You’re probably guilty of it too.

Aesthetic world

Let’s talk about ‘travel aesthetics’. You may or may not recognise the term, but you’ll definitely know what they are. Think of Japan , and you might think of a mass of cherry blossom dotted with temples, or maybe a blaze of futuristic neon lights. Think of Greece , and you’re likely picturing an island full of white houses slathered in bougainvillea, maybe with the hotel from Mamma Mia!  thrown in. Think Paris , and you’ll likely imagine an obscenely picturesque cobbled backstreet, with the Eiffel Tower peeping into view – in springtime, obviously.

And it’s likely that none of the scenes you’ve imagined actually exist . They’re fantasies, composites: one-shot representations of a whole country or city’s ‘aesthetic’. They’ve been subliminally drummed into each of us over the years by TV, movies, magazine articles, travel guides… and now, especially, social media.

Take to TikTok and you’ll see that #travelaesthetic has over 66 million views. #londonaesthetic boasts 47 million and #japanaesthetic an enormous 91 million views. Head over to Instagram and you’ll see nearly 48,000 ‘travel aesthetic’ tags, plus thousands for specific places like Paris (another 48,000), London (89,000) or Japan (76,000). Once you start looking, travel aesthetics are everywhere.

A few things make up the classic ‘travel aesthetic’ social post. Cute streets, sweeping views, landmarks and greenery are key. Clichés abound: the more obvious, the better. People are notably absent – too messy – unless it’s the person posting the pic giving main-character energy in the centre of the frame.

So? You might ask. What’s new? Ever since travel went mass-market, people (and especially tourist boards) have tried to distil a whole culture or destination into a single image, tapping into people’s wanderlust and desire to be somewhere far from their daily lives. The lineage of ‘travel aesthetics’ goes right back to classic travel brochures, or even old-school picture postcards.

But in the era of visually led social media, it’s a trend that’s become supercharged – partly by the ‘set-jetting’ phenomenon of people visiting somewhere based on TV shows or films, like the beautiful clichés of ‘Emily in Paris’ .

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Noire Classique (@noireclassique)

More than ever, the idea of culture as an aesthetic – as something to be enjoyed purely visually and shared online – is guiding how people travel. Travel aesthetics are Gen Z’s sophisticated twist on aspirational tourism: a series of visual cues that construct a particularly seductive and persuasive version of a place. It’s a – usually – well-meaning form of immersive, escapist travel inspiration.

Florence syndrome

So why is this a problem? Well, just look at Stacia Datskovska’s experience in Florence. By travelling with a head full of aesthetics, you’re risking a TikTok-era form of Paris syndrome: a genuine phenomenon in which travellers to the French capital have found themselves so extremely disappointed with the reality of the city that they have ended up in serious psychiatric distress.

Or look at the furore around another Italian city:   Milan . Lulled by TikTok into internalising the Milan aesthetic – as a city of spectacular style, with a haute-couture boutique or gothic cathedral on every corner –   many recent visitors   have been severely let down by the post-industrial metropolis they find instead. (For what it's worth, there are plenty of excellent things to do in Milan  besides walking around and eating.)

The fact is that, if you’re visiting a real place in search of an aesthetic, you’re tempting serious disappointment. And in a final twist, that disappointment can be made worse by the number of your fellow travellers who are also there for the aesthetic. After all, if all the most picturesque spots in town are mobbed by TikTok tourists, no one’s getting the perfect shot they’ve come to capture.

Us and them

That’s not the only problem, though. By their very nature, travel aesthetics reduce an entire complex destination to a series of clichés and stereotypes. Often it means boiling down a culture to its most basic caricatures – sometimes racist and xenophobic ones.

This has roots in cultural and historical power dynamics – specifically, the lingering ignorance and prejudices of (typically, but not exclusively) rich, white, Western travellers and societies. Being defined so stereotypically is something many countries and peoples actively fight against, from ‘tribal’ stereotypes in Africa to the emasculation of east Asian men.

To use the features of another culture for purely aesthetic purposes often means perpetuating a power imbalance that has existed since colonial times. It’s a continuation of what Palestinian-American intellectual Edward Said termed ‘orientalism’: the distinction of ‘us’ and ‘them’ has the effect of maintaining historic power imbalances, no matter how well-intentioned it might be.

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Plus, once you view a culture as something that is largely visual – rather than complex and, above all, human –  aesthetics can provide a short step to something much more damaging. You could argue that once a place has been decontextualised and made unreal, its inhabitants are more likely to become stereotyped and dehumanised. Once you view Japan as a mystical, gorgeous wonderland of sakura blossoms and Blade Runner -style skyscrapers, it’s arguably only a short step to fetishising geishas and women dressed as maids or schoolchildren.

And while it’s always been true that no culture can be effectively summed up in one image, social media has changed the game. Competing for seconds-long attention spans, the simplification has grown even more reductive.  

View this post on Instagram A post shared by 𝐌𝐄𝐍𝐒𝐖𝐄𝐀𝐑 | 𝐅𝐎𝐎𝐃&𝐂𝐈𝐆𝐀𝐑 | 𝐌𝐎𝐃𝐄 (@victor.gilet)

All this stuff is bad. But it’s also deeply tempting. Who  wouldn’t want to be the perfect traveller, dreamily wandering through glamorous (yet strangely uncrowded) settings with hardly more depth than a film set?

However, we’re here to tell you that you can – and should – fight back against the lure of the aesthetic. Ideally, you’ll head to some of the world’s many underrated destinations :  places that need more travellers , not fewer.

But if you are looking to tick off those bucket-list spots, there are always more interesting reasons to visit a place than visual clichés and aesthetic clout. Above all, remember that you’re dealing with an actual culture and real people – and that, just like wherever you’re from, it’s always more complex than it looks on Instagram.

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It’s OK if your traveling isn’t ‘aesthetic’

Here are some tips to keep in mind when planning your vacation to help you avoid travel aesthetic envy.

By Hanna Seariac

Travel influencers seems to have everything down pat. Every outfit (including on the plane) is fashionable and ever meal they eat on vacation is full of colorful and fresh vegetables. It can seem bewildering how some people’s travels look like a vacation brochure when your travels look messy.

Right now, travel aesthetics are a big part of vacation planning. According to Vogue , Gen Z is turning to mood boards filled with social media clips of picture perfect destinations and basing their travels on that.

While there are many beautiful places in the world to travel, the onslaught of seemingly perfect travel pictures can lead to a let down later on. A study reported on by Stylist showed that social media can contribute to women comparing themselves more than they did previously to other women. Comparison culture, as Stylist calls it, can catch up to us pretty quick when we see the perfect picture vacation pictures and think ours is dull by comparison — even if that’s not true.

Travel aesthetic doesn’t need to derail your travel plans (and budget). Here are some tips to keep in mind when planning your vacation to help you avoid travel aesthetic envy.

Travel planning tips

1. be practical.

Traveling can bring out the impractical in all of us. It costs a fair amount of money to travel, so when you do it, you want to be smart about it. Keep in mind that the amount of time that you have to travel and the funds that you have directly impact the vacation you will go on.

If you don’t have a lot of time for the Europe vacation you’ve been saving every penny for, it might be a good idea to do a staycation and wait for more time to come up before taking the trip. If you have the right amount of time and are traveling on a budget, it might be worthwhile to pick a location where you can have a full experience for the budget that you have.

2. Shop around for the best deals

When planning your next vacation, make sure to use a few different sites to price compare. Keep a spreadsheet of expenses on the side and look into what deals and offers different travel websites might have (compare that to compiling your own flights and hotels, too). When making your budget, make sure to have a guess estimate for tips, food and any Ubers or public transportation you may take while traveling.

3. Travel conscientiously

This one is important. If your travel will include visits to holy sites or to a country that you’ve never been to before, make sure to check any dress codes that you may have to follow. Being respectful to the cultures of the places you visit is important.

Consider making an effort to stay in locally owned hotels and eating at locally owned restaurants. Research your destination before you book your travel and learn about the customs and important elements of the country. Being conscientious about your travel will make it more meaningful and will help you to have a better experience.

4. Have a plan to stay safe

When you travel anywhere, you’re leaving behind many of your belongings and going to a place where you may not know many people. It can be a good idea to have a safety plan, especially if you’re traveling solo. Pick a designated person, a family member or a friend who can be your point person, so to speak. Text them at a specific time every day to let them know you’re safe and if you’re gone for an extended period of time, consider having them check in on your residence.

5. Re-imagine local destinations

Sometimes our budgets don’t allow for fancy flights to a tropical paradise or to the world of ancient ruins. That’s fine, as a staycation can be just as fun. Pick a part of your state that is different than where you live and that you haven’t explored yet. Explore that area with an open mind and try to find magic in it.

6. Focus on the memories and experience

Remember: it’s a vacation, not a marathon. When picking activities in a place that you’ve always wanted to visit, it can be easy to want to jam in every single site that you want to see.

Take a step back and consider picking just a handful of sites to really experience and take the time to get to know. It’s your vacation — you want to relax and have a good time, running around from place to place may make you feel like you need another vacation when you get home. Think about your travel plans in terms of memories and experiences, and you’ll be golden.

Travel packing list

If you’re traveling, having a good packing list is vital. Some things on this list might be more obvious — you need to check the weather ahead of time and plan outfits for the weather, outfits appropriate for your activities and have a couple back-up options in case the weather changes drastically.

You’ll also need the typical items like shampoo, conditioner, deodorant, sunscreen, prescription medications, toothbrush and toothpaste.

Something that is important to check when going to a new destination is the clothing that you may need to bring. Some religious sites won’t allow you to have bare shoulders and some countries may have the custom of wearing more modest dress. As a guest, it’s important to respect the local customs and that includes what clothing you bring.

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Omsk: Western Siberia's hidden gem

A city view of Omsk. Source: Dmitry Feoktistov

Omsk was founded in 1716 when a wooden fort was constructed to house a Cossack unit in the area to protect the expanding Russian frontier from Central Asian nomadic incursions. It served various administrative functions throughout the 1800s and became infamous as a place of exile and incarceration. The city was rundown when selected as a hub for the Trans-Siberian railway in the 1890s. Many international trade companies and foreign consulates relocated here and the remnants of their offices can still be found in the city today.

The mystery of Kolchak’s gold

Omsk became the headquarters of the anti-Bolshevik white army led by Admiral Aleksandr Kolchak in 1918. In late 1918 there was a revolt in the city initiated by a leftist faction (Socialist Revolutionary Party or SPs) with 500 rebel deaths at the hands of Cossacks and Czechoslovak soldiers, a major factor in convincing the SPs to join the Bolsheviks. There is a large Soviet-era monument to the uprising at the corner of Lenina street and Broz Tito street.  

Kolchak was entrusted with a large portion of the Tsarist’s gold reserves, yet amazingly lost much of it. Supposedly 250 million rubles were lost (about $8 million at the time). Legend has it that they were buried near the village of Taiga, yet numerous excavations have turned up nothing. The area still attracts the occasional fortune seeker.

Kolchak’s headquarters are located at what is today the  Omsk Regional Archives  at Broz Tito St., 3. Nothing shows how much times have changed as the imposing Kolchak statue that was unveiled in 2012 around the corner. The statue guards  Kolchak restaurant , a four-story culinary complex featuring a steak house, an Irish pub, a Central Asian café and an Italian eatery.  For more details on where and how to dig Kolchak's gold, see  Top Ten Mysterious Lost Treasures of Russia

Dostoevsky and the Tsar

At 1.15 million people Omsk dwarfs the region’s second largest city, Tara (population 28,000). The city is split by the River Irtysh into two sections (all places of interest are on the right bank) with downtown emanating from the River Om.

Most foreigners have heard of Omsk via writer Fyodor Dostoevsky who spent four years here as a prisoner (1849-1853). He spent most of his time in Omsk in squalor and chains and with no books besides the Bible, however, it left an indelible mark on his memory and influenced his future literary output. There is a statue of the writer in chains grasping a Bible at the corner of Partizanskaya and Spartakovskaya streets, where Dostoevsky undoubtedly stepped many times. A  museum dedicated to the author's time in Omsk  is located nearby at Dostoevskogo St. 1. The local university is also named for him.

A view of the Assumption Cathedral, Omsk. Source: Lori/Legion-Media

Tarskaya Street is one of the city’s oldest thoroughfares. It features a monument to victims of Stalinist repressions and the Tara gates, originally built in 1792 as one of the four entrances to the Omsk fort. Nearby stands the Assumption Cathedral, one of the largest churches in Siberia. Future Tsar Nicholas II laid the first stone here in 1891 when making his way back to St. Petersburg after his Eastern journey.

In Omsk you are never more than a few steps from the village, made clear when one exits the center to the north, where most houses are wooden and roads unpaved. Stroll along Bulatova and Rabinovicha streets, a well-preserved ensemble of wooden architecture.

Omsk’s cultural heritage 

The Pushkin State Library is worth a look with busts of Russian literary figures adorning the front side of the building. At the corner under the big “M” is one of several stations of the never completed Omsk metro. Construction began in 1992, but as of 2014 the project is again dormant due to financing problems.

One of Omsk’s most famous sons is Symbolist painter Mikhail Vrubel (1856-1910). Vrubel ignored contemporary trends and focused on themes from fairy tales, demons and religious subjects and also designed a majolica frieze for the Metropol Hotel in Moscow. Omsk’s Fine Arts Museum is named for him and features a number of  his works .

Milhail Vrubel's painting 'Demon Seated in a Garden' (1890)

Over the years a number of tourists have tripped over the monument to Stepanych. This bust of a plumber rising from a sewer was the idea of Omsk’s former mayor after a trip to Slovakia in the 1990s. Stepanych has become one of the symbols of the city.

Omsk is a hockey town, with one of the major teams,  Avangard , in the KHL, Russia’s premiere professional league. Russian champions on several occasions, check out a match at Omsk Arena. But if you can’t catch a game there’s a large kiosk featuring the team’s merchandise at the airport.

Siberian   punk, jazz and the classics

While Omsk may not be on everyone’s radar musically, it does host a  musical theater  built just after the war. The building on 10 Let Oktyabrya Street is in the form of an enormous sloping grand piano.

A monument to Stepanych, Lenina Street, Omsk. Photo credit: RIA Novosti/Pavel Lisitsyn 

Perhaps Russia’s most famous punk band,  Grazhdanskaya oborona  (Civil Defence), was formed here in 1982. The band was active until 2008 when lead singer Yegor Letov died of heart failure at age 43. Letov is buried at the Staro-Vostochnoe cemetery. A sprawling graveyard with thousands of graves, fans should stop at the administration for help in locating his grave.

In Russia, Omsk is known among the younger, tech-savvy generation primarily because of the “Omsk bird,” also known as Winged Doom. The origin of what became one of Russia’s most ubiquitous memes comes from a painting by German artist Heiko  Müller. One day in 2009 an Internet user posted this painting with the line, “Welcome to Omsk,” at the top. Additional versions menace viewers stating, “Don't try to leave Omsk,” and “Omsk is closer than you think.” Like many popular memes on the Internet, this one went viral and has become something like an unofficial symbol of the city.

All rights reserved by Rossiyskaya Gazeta.

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The Top 12 Things to Do in Omsk

Feel the love in the very heart of Russia

In Russia, all roads lead to Moscow , on account of the city's status as the national capital and its importance throughout history. If geography were the deciding factor, however, the Siberian city of Omsk would be the point where all Russia's roads converge—it's located literally in the heart of the country, approximately as far from Vladivostok as it is from the Belarusian border. Omsk boasts a spate of exciting attractions, even if you simply make a stop here as you ride the Trans-Siberian Railway eastward or westward.

Marvel at Assumption Cathedral

Chelsea Hicks/Flickr/CC BY 2.0

Orthodox architecture never gets old, even if you've been traveling in Russia for a long time. This is particularly the case when it comes to the Assumption Cathedral of Omsk, whose gold-and-turquoise domes look resplendent under the blue skies that bless Omsk during the warmer months of the year. The cathedral was built in 1891 under the orders Nicholas, the last Tsar of Russia.

Time Travel at Omsk Fortress

Ogg-omsk/Wikimedia Commons/CC BY-SA 3.0

The bad news? Much of what was once Omsk Fortress is now a residential area, with the only notable landmark that still stands being Tobolsk Gate (think Paris' Arc de Triomphe , but yellow and smaller). The good news? There's essentially no reason for a military fortification to exist in today's peaceful Omsk, which means you can stroll amid parks and cafés and imagine the area being war-torn—a small sacrifice to make in exchange for not being blown to bits.

Go Green at Ptich'ya Gavan'

Forinrap/Wikimedia Commons/CC BY-SA 4.0 

Or white, as it were: Omsk is covered with snow several months of the year, which means that its prized Ptich'ya Gavan' central park is often more of a winter wonderland than the green reprieve you experience in summer. The park is popular with local families, to whom you can say "Privet" (Hello) as you walk past.

Walk on Omsk's Artsy Side

G0rn/Wikimedia Commons/CC BY 3.0

Although the building that houses Omsk District Museum of Visual Arts is unmistakably Russian, the collection you find inside is surprisingly eclectic for a city deep in Russia's interior. Recent collections have included a revival of Van Gogh's great works, among others. This is a particularly enjoyable Omsk attraction on cold winter days, when temperatures can drop far below freezing and sunshine can be rare.

Shoot for the Moon

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Though Omsk is a relatively large city, the skies over it become dark enough in the evening for stargazing. While visitors are not permitted to use the expensive telescopes housed inside, exhibits inside the museum provide a fascinating look into the cosmos, narrated by expert astronomical guides.

Shop on Lenin Street

yykkaa/Getty Images

Lenin Street's name is appropriate: Although it's the high street of a city thousands of miles from Moscow, the European-style architecture and cosmopolitan vibe you feel as you stroll past its boutique and cafés evokes the capital of Russia more than its forlorn interior. Local specialties you can purchase here include rustic jams made from local berries (and even, in some shops, cedar cones), as well as handmade rugs from Kazakhstan, which sits just south of Omsk.

Sample Siberian Cuisine

Quynh Anh Nguyen/Getty Images 

Speaking of unique Siberian food, it's not just preserves made from the fruits of evergreen trees. Omsk is a great place to discover the flavors of Russia's wild interior, whether you eat zagutai and stroganini (Siberia's take on sushi) or classic Russian plmeni dumplings filled with decidedly Siberian ingredients, such as bear and rabbit meat. Vkusno ! (That's Russian for "delicious"!)

Enjoy Historical Houses—While You Still Can

Simon Richmond/Getty Images

The wooden houses that line Nikolskiy Prospekt aren't protected, but they should be. Historical structures that are unfortunately in a state of disrepair, these houses are slated for demolition at some unspecific point in the future. Be sure to catch a glimpse of these historical house before they're gone. There will, however, be at least one left standing for a long time. The Omsk State Art Museum is in a traditional wooden house.

Go to the Circus

Vladislav Domnich/Getty Images

Omsk State Circus is a popular spot for local families, whose children love the opportunity to see acrobatic performances and animals that wouldn't otherwise make appearance in Siberia. If you do attend a show here, keep in mind that ethics with regard to animal treatment might not match up with those in North America or Western Europe, to say nothing of the smell that can pervade the auditorium during and even after a show.

Be a Drama Queen

While there's no guarantee that any shows will be playing at Omsk Drama Theater at the time of your trip, a visit to this 19th century building is a spectacle in and of itself. While not as huge, say, as Moscow's Bolshoi Theatre, it's nonetheless an ornate architectural wonder that hearkens back to a glorious time in history. The interior of the theater is even open during the daytime; ask the person who's inside if any tours are available when you turn up.

Explore Cities Deeper in Siberia

Tuul & Bruno Morandi/Getty Images

Siberia starts in Omsk, even if you can't continue far into it. If you don't plan to travel on the Trans-Siberian Railway, take one of two day trips from Omsk. Travel to Tobolsk, whose hilltop Kremlin is one of the most picturesque in all of Russia, and whose beauty inspired a photo by Russian Prime Minister Dmitry Medvedev that ended up winning several awards. Or visit Tomsk, where you'll find a botanical garden dedicated to Siberian flora, and a museum that celebrates wooden architecture.

Ride the Trans-Siberian Railway

 lvinst/Getty Images

The idea of leaving Omsk behind can seem difficult, especially now that you've gotten to know this city in the heart of Siberia as well as you have. The mint-colored facade of Omsk Railway Station will make you smile, however, even if you're crying inside as you depart. Though it's not quite on the mid-line of the Trans-Siberian route between Moscow and Beijing , Omsk is a worthy starting place to begin a journey to either. If you head east make sure to stop in Irkutsk , the home of Lake Baikal and another underrated Siberian city.

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