In the age of social media, travel is no longer just about experiencing new cultures or places, it is about taking photographs and creating content for a following. Social media has turned travel into the art of posting the most luxurious photographs from different locations.
Travel (and posting about it) is the new symbol of status.
Travel “influencing” is a way to gain notoriety and a greater following or a way to tote to others about the luxury you are experiencing… #ToBeFrank
But is social media getting in the way of actually enjoying travel?
For some, maybe. Social media is great in that we can share with others our experiences. But if our travels become solely focused on the photographs, hiding behind our phones could take away from experiencing everything that the world has to offer.
In my own travels, I must make a conscious effort to put away my phone and take a look around. It may sound cliché, but these small devices in our hands can become all-consuming and instead of looking at the large world around us, we easily get sucked into a tiny little screen.
I challenge everyone- the next time you are traveling or experiencing something new- put the phone down. Maybe for an hour, an afternoon or an entire day. For one day, do not focus on posting photos- focus on the experience. Focus on the world around you. Make sure you are experiencing the world around you, and living the culture of the location in which you are immersed.
Personally, I believe in the hospitality industry that we have a responsibility to insight connection. Not only between us and our guests, but between our guests and our establishment’s location. Ensure that your concierge is knowledgable and that you and your team have relationships with surrounding businesses and locations. Help guests to plan family activities or point them to a great museum or park to enjoy. Show them what your area has to offer and give them a reason to put the phone away.
Make sure that when your guests are traveling, that they are also living!
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