A beautiful photo can say a thousand words in just one shot, and often it’s enough to inspire the trip of a lifetime. These days, many of us spend hours scrolling our Instagram feeds and trawling through Pinterest travel boards in search of that next must-visit destination – and with so many breath-taking locations to choose from, it’s all too easy to end up with a luxury travel tick list as long as your arm. A survey by Big 7 Travel found that 67% of travellers have visited a new destination after seeing it on Instagram – and as the platform continues to grow in popularity, that number is only set to increase.
But despite the plethora of iconic landmarks, paradise beaches and unique cultural spots you’ll undoubtedly find yourself wading through, in a quandary about where to head to next, there are some places that just can’t help but stand out from the crowd.
If a reel of impressive photos is something you’re eager to return from your trip with and you’re partial to dabbling in a bit of luxury destination photography then there are certain spots that will never fail to deliver. We’ve rounded up some of our favourites – all you need to do is book those First Class flights.
Ubud, Bali
From its countless picturesque waterfalls to its spectacular layered rice paddies, Ubud takes the cake when it comes to Instagram worthy luxury travel destinations. Visitors to the area – which is known as the cultural heart of Bali – can immerse themselves in the local landscape at one of the many luxurious five-star hotels, each offering breath-taking views over the forest from impressive infinity pools.
Whilst in Ubud, it would be rude not to visit the iconic ‘giant swing’. This adrenaline-fuelled experience offers sweeping views over a beautiful palm tree valley and river – an unmissable spot when visiting Bali.
Bondi Beach, Sydney, Australia
Located at the Eastern Edge of Sydney’s famous Bondi Beach, the breath-taking saltwater Bondi Baths are carved out of the cliffs and have been recognised as the area’s most iconic landmark for over 100 years.
Not without good reason, either; with Ocean waves crashing into the pool at regular intervals, the visuals here are quite outrageous. And, as part of the Icebergs Club Complex, which houses one of the city’s most sought-after restaurants on its upper floors, there are few better places to spend a snap-happy afternoon.
Lake Louise, Banff National Park, Canada
When it comes to picturesque countryside scenes, it rarely gets better than Banff National Park’s Lake Louise. Set against the unique backdrop of the snow-capped Canadian Rockies, it’s accessible throughout the year – and with its bright blue waters, lush green vegetation and winding mountain paths, offers some impressive photo opportunities from the word go.
For a unique vantage point, rent a canoe for a paddle on the lake, or head off on one of the many hiking trails around the park.
El Nido, Palawan, The Philippines
The Philippines are truly an Instagrammer’s dream, with hundreds of crystal clear waterfalls and endless white sand beaches just waiting to be explored. Add to that the plethora of beautiful lagoons fringed by towering limestone karsts, and the photo opportunities are endless.
The most memorable place by far has got to be El Nido, which boasts a raft on unbelievably picturesque photo spots that will take your breath away. Don’t miss the Secret Lagoon, Nacpan Beach and the rope swing at Papaya Beach.
Plitvice Lakes, Croatia
Nestled within the boundaries of the lush greenery of the Plitvice National Park, 16 crystalline lakes merge into a series of waterfalls and cascades, making for possibly one of the most memorable and beautiful sights you ever will have seen.
Visiting this place is truly like stepping into a fairytale, with clouds of butterflies drifting above the wooden walkways that snake across the water. Stunning viewpoints and photogenic waterfalls abound here – so prepared to spend several hours here gazing in awe at the wonders of nature – and taking a few thousand photos whilst you’re at it.
If you haven’t spotted these five destinations on Instagram yet, then head straight over and look them up – we guarantee you’ll be scrolling open-mouthed in wonder for the rest of your evening.
