Do Instagram and Facebook Really Influence Where You Travel 2025?
We’ve all been there, scrolling through Instagram and Facebook when a photo of a glowing Santorini sunset or a hidden waterfall in Bali suddenly captures our imagination.
Abdallah Alkotop
5/15/20251 min read
Just like that, a destination we’d never considered becomes a must-see. But how deep does that influence really go?
The short answer, very deep.
Social media, particularly platforms like Instagram and Facebook, play a critical role in shaping how we choose where to travel. These platforms don't just show us places, they tell visual stories that stir our emotions, spark curiosity, and often lead to concrete decisions. Instagram inspires through beautifully curated visuals, while Facebook fills in the gaps with destination details, recommendations, and planning tools. Together, they form a powerful bridge from daydreaming to booking.
One key factor behind this influence is what experts call perceived ease of use, how simple and intuitive a platform feels. When social media is easy to navigate, users spend more time engaging, exploring, and absorbing content. This engagement can quickly translate into action, especially when it’s supported by clear captions, geotags, or links.
Surprisingly, gender doesn’t significantly alter how we engage with travel content. My research found that both men and women interact with travel media in similar ways; it’s the user behavior, like saving posts or clicking on travel guides, that drives impact, not demographics.
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Watch the full interview for deeper insights on how social media shapes travel behavior