This past summer, I had the privilege to study abroad in London, England. While I was there, I experienced people, places, smells, and sites that I would have never in Dallas, Texas. From Paris to Scotland, the travel bug bit me hard. Now, when I can’t sleep, my mind wanders to the next destination my feet will take me and when that excitement will take place. Thanks to our dear friend social media, I can now plan and dream about my next adventures using some pretty cool apps. Check them out!
Mashable.com divides these top social media platforms to use for travel between “Before You Go” and “Once You’re There.” All of the sites Mashable credits are ones that are continually very popular in every day life, but now they have special travel features we don’t always think about. Here’s a synopsis of how they can work to quench your travel thirst, too:
“Before You Go”
Pinterest allows you to categorize your travel inspiration in perfect little categories that never get mixed up. The best part is that most pins link back to the original site so you can get more information on that hotel, beach, or restaurant that you’re so anxiously awaiting to experience. Additionally, one of Pinterest’s newest features is its “place pins,” which allow you to go straight to Google Maps to find that specific destination. All of the fabulous images are definitely inspiration worthy, too.
By checking friends’, celebrities’, and complete strangers’ Instagram posts with crazy scenic views and tasty treats, you’re sure to get inspired. Study what excites you about each post and look at other users’ posts that have a similar budget as you. You can also search for specific places using hashtags and locations.
Trip Advisor
This one is kind of a no-brainer for travel nerds. Trip Advisor combines reviews for food, attractions, and hotels to help you plan the specifics for you trip. In order to recognize whether reviews are genuine or not, Mashable says to look at who is reviewing and see if they have left other comments on the company’s other properties. Also, check and see if the company has addressed any negative comments because this will show if they care about their reputation.
“Once You’re There”
PhocusWright cites that more than half of U.S. travelers post to social media about their trips while they are traveling, so staying connected while you’re on your vacay can give you additional help. Twitter is great to find people and events around you while you are traveling through searching hashtags. This works as the biggest benefit of Twitter while you’re traveling: finding interesting things going on around you.
EatWith
Sometimes you’re searching for more than just a good meal. This app connects users with willing participants and sets up a dinner date where you eat a meal with strangers in a stranger’s home. Why just eat well when you can eat and chat well?
Snapchat
Snapchat’s “live stories” allow you to view events going on near you in your respective vacation location. Also, by adding snapchats to your own story, you can inspire other adventuresome travelers like yourself!
Whether your next trip is down the interstate or across the sea, social media has your back. Use these classic platforms to make the most of your next adventure. See you there!
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