When it comes to where we jet off to on our holidays, social media platforms – Instagram, in particular – are playing an increasingly important role in influencing where and when we go away, and what we must see and do once we reach our destination.
But, while this increased awareness and willingness to travel to unique and breathtaking destinations may sound like a dream to travel marketers, there are downsides to having the perfect ‘grammable destination.
Over the last few years, some of the world’s most impressive landmarks and shareable holiday destinations have started to be blocked off from the public. Not due to safety issues, but as a result of the sheer amount of footfall from visitors trying to get that perfect influencer-inspired shot for social.
From London’s Notting Hill to Thailand’s Maya Bay, photogenic bucket list destinations – such as Venice, Bali and Machu Picchu – have all been feeling the impact of overtoursim.
So what can, and should, travel brands and marketers be doing to help protect the local environment and communities of the destinations they’re promoting? And how can social media be used as a force for good, as well as promotion?
