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Travel porn is a term used to describe the unrealistic portrayal of travel on social media.  While I don’t like the title, I think it is crucial to discuss.

It is a phenomenon where people share images of their travels that are often edited and filtered to make them look more appealing than they are. The term has been coined because these images can create unrealistic expectations of travel and lead to disappointment for those who try to replicate the same experience.

The rise of social media has made it easier than ever to share travel images, but it has also created a culture where people constantly need to share their experiences. This has led to a situation where people are more concerned with how their travels look on social media than the actual experience itself. The issue with travel porn is that it can create a distorted view of travel and can lead to disappointment for those who expect their travels to be as perfect as the images they see online.

Defining Travel Porn

“Travel porn” is a term used to describe the unrealistic and often exaggerated portrayal of travel on social media platforms, travel blogs, and in travel magazines. It is a form of visual storytelling that creates a sense of envy and desire among viewers and can lead to unrealistic expectations and disappointment when the viewer tries to replicate the experience.

 

The term “travel porn” is often used to describe images and videos that showcase luxurious destinations, expensive hotels, and extravagant experiences. These images are often heavily edited and curated to create a perfect image of travel that is unattainable for most people.

The picture above is a great example as this was shot in long exposure to catch the waterfall and the photo has been heavily edited.

Travel porn can also include images and videos that showcase cultural experiences and local cuisine. While these images may be more authentic, they still contribute to viewers’ unrealistic expectations about travel.

The issue with travel porn is that it creates a distorted view of travel and can lead to disappointment and disillusionment when the viewer realizes their travel experience does not live up to the images they have seen. It can also perpetuate harmful stereotypes and contribute to over-tourism in popular destinations.

Overall, it is essential to recognize that travel porn is not an accurate representation of travel and to approach travel with a realistic mindset.

The Effects of Travel Porn Photos

Unrealistic Expectations

Travel porn often depicts exotic locations, luxurious accommodations, and extravagant experiences that are out of reach for most people. As a result, viewers may develop unrealistic expectations of what travel should be like leading to disappointment and dissatisfaction with their travels.

Environmental Impact

Travel porn can contribute to over-tourism, as viewers may be inspired to visit popular destinations without considering the impact of their travel on the environment and local communities. This can lead to overcrowding, pollution, and damage to natural and cultural resources.

Cultural Appropriation

Travel porn can also perpetuate cultural appropriation, as viewers may be inspired to adopt the clothing, hairstyles, and customs of the people they see in the videos and photos without understanding the cultural significance behind them. This can lead to disrespect and frustration within the culture they are visiting.

Financial Burden

Travel porn can create a financial burden for viewers who feel pressured to keep up with the extravagant lifestyles depicted in the videos and photos. This can lead to overspending, debt, and financial stress.

While travel porn may temporarily escape reality, it can have long-term negative effects on the viewer and the destinations they visit.

The Responsibility of Travel Influencers

Travel influencers have become an essential part of the travel industry, with their massive followings and ability to influence their audience’s travel choices. However, travel influencers must be mindful of the impact they have on their followers and the destinations they visit.

• Firstly, travel influencers must be transparent with their audience about their sponsored content and its impact on their travel recommendations. They should disclose when they receive compensation for promoting a particular destination or product and whether they have a personal connection to the place they are promoting.
• Secondly, travel influencers must be responsible tourists and promote sustainable travel. They should encourage their followers to travel responsibly, respect local cultures, and minimize their impact on the environment. This can include promoting eco-friendly accommodations, encouraging responsible wildlife tourism, and advocating for sustainable tourism practices.
• Thirdly, travel influencers must be mindful of their content’s impact on the destinations they visit. They should avoid promoting overtouristed destinations or activities that may harm the local environment or culture. Instead, they should encourage off-the-beaten-path destinations and activities that are sustainable and respectful of the local community.

 

A note from Travels With The Crew

I try to show photos of travels to help you find the things you want to do and to help you have as much information as possible. While I filter my photos to make them look consistent, I try to keep pictures of my family in the vast majority to help show realism.

I also add context to any photo I share with an explanation of what we are doing and why we visited what we did.

How to Avoid Being Seduced by Travel Porn

Firstly, it’s important to understand that travel content, like any other form of media, is often curated and presented in a way that is designed to appeal to our emotions and desires. This can create unrealistic expectations and lead to disappointment or even harm if we try to replicate what we see without considering the practicalities and potential consequences.

To avoid falling into the trap of “travel porn,” consumers should approach travel content with a critical eye and consider the following:

1. Context: Look beyond the glossy images and sensational headlines to understand the cultural, social, and environmental context of the destination. This can help you appreciate the place in a more meaningful way and avoid perpetuating harmful stereotypes or behaviors.
2. Authenticity: Seek out authentic travel experiences that allow you to connect with local people and culture in a respectful and sustainable way. This can help you avoid the superficiality and commercialization that often come with mass tourism.
3. Choose Who You Follow: Follow travel influencers who give good and helpful travel content instead of just photos. Look for pictures that look like you may have taken them yourself, and that will give you a better idea of what a place will really look like.

Just like anything we consume on social media, the best way to see what we want to see is to unfollow what is harmful to us and follow the things we care about.