Posting at tourist traps is out of style. The post-pandemic travel boom has come with a new style of showing off trips: only posting the “non-mainstream” sites in efforts to look nonchalant and “authentic” as a traveler. It’s being driven by wanderlust Gen Z, who are taking trips more often than older generations and seeking out something more unique (or at least, looks it online) than what they’ve seen on socials all their lives. And it’s only being emphasized as “hidden gems” become the more impressive picture to share—signifying a “culturedness and expertise” that sightseeing doesn’t have anymore. Classically popular destinations are even banning photos due to over-tourism, so having a slightly more off-grid experience makes it one they can certainly share for a feed who will beg to know where to go themselves. (Mashable)
📊 YPulse data: 45% of 13-39-year-olds would rather go to a lesser-known dupe of a popular travel destination than a popular, well-known destination
