Seven scenic spots being ruined by Instagram tourists, from Paris to Hong Kong
- Instagram, Facebook and the like have helped boost the appeal of locations around the world for younger travellers, though it is not always welcome
- Here are some of the places paying the price for their popularity
Instagram feeds saturated with stunning shots from across the globe are inspiring a new generation of travellers. But when scenic spots become inundated with inconsiderate snappers, problems usually arise.
Jemma Hands has been a digital nomad for the last four years and has noticed an increasing number of photo shoots being done at scenic landmarks.
“I used to have to fight through a barrage of selfie sticks when I visited places,” says the 32-year-old graphic designer, who lived in Hong Kong before hitting the road. “Now, it’s crowds of people carrying out full-blown photo sessions to post on their social media. It’s getting crazy.”
Hands says it is vital tourists respect their surroundings. She recalls some social media influencers with whom she was trekking through Nepal’s Annapurna region rudely placing props in the hands of confused indigenous tribeswomen.
“Be considerate to locals and your environment,” she says. “Of course, we all want to capture beautiful places to remember them forever, but not at the cost of anything.”
A 2016 survey by travel company Topdeck revealed that 36 per cent of 18- to 30-year-olds use social media to help them choose destinations. Here are some of the places paying the price for their popularity.
