The Changing Meaning of Exploration
Travel today is less about ticking boxes and more about immersion. People no longer just visit landmarks. They want stories. They want to understand how locals live, eat, and think. Platforms like Airbnb Experiences changed expectations. Travellers now book cooking classes or neighbourhood walks rather than standard tours. Films like Eat Pray Love shaped the romantic idea of travel as self-discovery. Yet reality feels more grounded. Remote work has created “slow travellers” who stay longer in fewer places. The emphasis is on belonging rather than collecting passport stamps. Social media drives many decisions. Instagram reels or YouTube vlogs can turn unknown locations into popular hotspots overnight. This brings opportunity and risk. Small towns gain economic benefits, but overtourism becomes a concern. Travel planning itself has transformed. Apps recommend routes, local cafés, and hidden viewpoints. Google Maps reviews sometimes influence choices more than traditional guidebooks like...