Isabella Miller The contemporary way of traveling has changed from discovering brand new territories to recreating social media moments which became popular through internet sharing. The practice of “scripted tourism” has turned major global cities into social media photo spots which people use as they take pictures. The historical streets of these cities have undergone a transformation which creates movie sets because visitors now seek to produce perfect three-second online clips instead of experiencing local culture.
The “Instagrammable” Building Code
People design public spaces in cities nowadays to create attractive visual appearances which will look appealing when photographed. The real-world example of this design concept exists in selfie museums and cafes which feature neon signs and flower walls as backdrops for customers who wish to take pictures instead of providing comfort to customers who visit.
The Long Line for One Photo
The tourists going to Bali’s Lempuyang Temple spend multiple hours in line so they can capture a photograph between the “Gates of Heaven.” The famous pictures people see actually show a photographer who uses a mirror to create the illusion of a water reflection by holding the mirror below the phone lens.
Ghost Cities for Content
The Austrian village of Hallstatt attracts TikTok “vlog” creators who visit the area more than the local residents who live there. The shops in these towns function as theme park attractions which sell souvenirs to visitors instead of providing essential grocery items for local residents.
The “Positano” Effect
The Amalfi Coast has become a popular location where people overcrowd certain streets to show off their outfit changes. The local culture gets ignored because historical paths become fashion runways which block local residents from accessing their workplaces and grocery stores.
Standardized Global Decor
The trendy cafes which exist in Tokyo, London and New York City share a common design appearance. The business shows the same design elements which include “Mid-Century Modern” furniture and avocado toast styling, which creates a travel experience where all cities begin to feel identical.
The “Hidden Gem” Paradox
A TikToker who marks a remote area as a “hidden gem” will result in the area becoming destroyed within a few weeks. Pristine national parks in Iceland have closed their gates because of thousands of tourists who came to see the location where a viral video was filmed.
Scripted Local Interactions
Some tours now offer “authentic” experiences that are actually rehearsed. A visitor to a “traditional” village will pay to enter when the residents only wear their cultural clothing for tour buses.
The “Main Character” Syndrome
The modern world of tourism brings travelers to explore destinations which have taken priority over the actual locations. Visitors go to the Louvre to take pictures with the Mona Lisa instead of seeing it because they want to block other viewers who wish to see the artwork.
Digital “Colonization” of Space
Influencers create ownership of popular photo spots by establishing their tripods and ring lights throughout public spaces. The influencer continues to act as their private studio tenant using the public space for an extended period.
