Culture & Entertainment: The Best Instagram Travel Accounts

Sometimes, we’re stuck at home for longer than we’d like.

Whether due to financial restraints or busy schedules, missing out on trips can feel like a major letdown. And no one likes feeling the panicky graze of FOMO. (For non-FOMO sufferers, that stands for ‘fear of missing out’.)

During these times, many travelers take a nostalgic look back at their favorite trips.

They might finally get around to making that photo album or maybe they start thinking ahead, dreaming up their next great adventure.

Regardless of why you’re stuck at home and for how long, one of the best ways to scratch that travel itch is by engaging with travel content. Social media has made it easier than ever before to tag along on worldwide trips.

And I’m not talking about following Instagram influencers on their all-that-glitters tour of the world.

I’m talking about more inspiring Instagram accounts that focus on unique travel perspectives, daring adventurers on wild trips, and intercultural topics that showcase people around the world doing what they love.

I’m talking fashion, environmentalism, dancing, polar bears, and more.

There’s no question—following these Instagram accounts isn’t nearly as gratifying as going on a grand trip.

But they’ll take you closer to the things you love about travel. On top of that, you’ll encounter other likeminded travelers and hobbyists in the comments sections.

Caught your interest? Dive into the world of international intrigue by following these Instagram travel accounts.

London to Cape Town

@london.2.capetown

Three English PhD grads decide to drive a Toyota from London to Cape Town. Best moments: the voodoo ritual in Ghana, the luxury hotel stays, adopting a puppy, and the comments section. The comments section has become a hyper-passionate zone for Africans to shout-out their countries as the crew drives through.

Authentic Traveling

@authentic.traveling

American travel-lover takes on the world—and meets his wife along the way. I love this one because Chris is the type of person that every American will relate to. My favorite part of this series is his trip to Turkmenistan.

Egypt to Japan Without Flying

@omar.nok

A friendly young Egyptian man relies on the kindness of strangers to get from Cairo to Japan without taking a flight. Along the way, he meets so many kind and lovely people—it’s making me want to go to Kazakhstan. My heart melts with almost every update.

Can You Teach Me Your Favorite Dance Move

@ed.people

A dancing Dutch man travels the world to boogie with all our brothers and sisters. If you’re after joy and eclectic dance, look no further. There’s no city too big or village too small for Ed.

Life on Svalbard

@sejsejlija

A Swedish woman makes living in the Arctic Circle look cute as hell. Seriously, should we all move to Svalbard?

Turkish Cooking

@turkuazkitchen

A masterful Turkish baker explores the world’s tastiest recipes—without using modern electrical devices. Watching Betül prepare her dishes is relaxing and inspiring. If you have a sweet tooth and a love of global desserts, then check her page out.

Fashion by Jessi Regina

@by.regiina

A Brazilian fashionista moves to Switzerland and dresses to the GODS every single day. If you’re anything like me and love high fashion (it’s culture!), then follow Regina. She’s got a Gen X vibe and really solid video editing skills.

Crazy Japanese Mascot

@chiitan7407

A cute Japanese mascot gets into all types of hardcore (and hilarious) antics. I don’t know when or how I came upon this account, but it’s got a serious following in Japan. Need a laugh? Watch Chiitan take on the world. He’s cute and feral in perfect proportions.

Wildlife Consultant in Trinidad

@the_animalgirl

A wildlife consultant and biologist, Kyma Ali, takes us closer to wildlife around her native Trinidad, along with the Caribbean and Latin America. Ever seen a scientist handle an electric eel in real life? It’s just another day for Kyma.

Which US Cities Have the Best 4th of July Fireworks Shows?

The 4^th of July marks one of the height of summer.

Independence Day is a time for gathering with friends and loved ones. Usually, it also involves barbecue, spending time in or on the water, plenty of cold drinks, and backyard favorites like cornhole and splash slides.

It’s also a big day for fireworks. (And hospitals, but we won’t go there.)

While the massive pyrotechnic displays of today might seem novel and new, fireworks have been a core part of our independence from the start.

Back in 1777, Philadelphians shot off fireworks to celebrate the first anniversary of our independence. The grand exhibition took place in the Philadelphia Commons, lighting up the city streets with a menagerie of colors.

Thus, the obsession with firing off fireworks on the 4^th of July was born.

In fact, fireworks shows even helped inspire our National Anthem. During the War of 1812, Francis Scott Key penned the lyrics for the ‘Star Spangled Banner’ after surviving a harrowing battle. Lyrics like ‘rockets’ red glare’ and ‘bombs bursting in air’ were a callback to the battle he’d witnessed.

But these lyrics were also a reference to the then-well-established American pastime of shooting off fireworks on Independence Day.

Centuries later, we’ve taken this love of fireworks to new heights. Small towns and metropolises alike set off grand fireworks displays each year to ring in the 4^th of July.

But which cities do it best?

In honor of Independence Day, I’m counting down major US cities with the best 4^th of July fireworks shows. (Sorry, Philadelphia—you didn’t make the cut this time around.)

Boston

The secret ingredient: The symphonic orchestra

Like Philadelphia, Boston was one of the most important cities during America’s fight for independence. What makes its 4th of July show stand out is its musical accompaniment.

During the final stretch of its impressive and massive fireworks display, spectators are treated to a live rendition of “1812 Overture” from the Boston Symphony Orchestra. (Don’t worry, even if you’re not overly familiar with classical music, you’ll recognize this song.)

The cannon blasts and fireworks are perfectly aligned with the composition, which adds a powerful element to the display. Think: visual and audio theatrics.

Nashville

The secret ingredient: Folk music & pyrotechnics

Not only does Nashville regularly host one of the country’s larger fireworks displays, but the city also brings on multiple headliners to delight crowds. Folk and country music are, obviously, the main focus.

To be fair, the Nashville Symphony also delivers a poignant and perfectly timed show as the fireworks take off. And there are plenty of pyrotechnics at play for fans of fire.

But for me, what stands out is the mish-mash of classic American folk music alongside all the classic 4th of July favorites, from beer to barbecue. It’s a classic good ol’ time, framed by a next-level fireworks show.

New York City

The secret ingredient: The skyline

There’s not much to say here—New York City elbows its way onto most lists thanks to its dramatic skyline. That’s certainly the case here.

I’ve watched the New York City 4th of July fireworks show from a few different rooftops in Brooklyn, and it was always a jaw-dropping display. From its scale to its artistry, it’s worth traveling for.

I’m personally not a fan of bright lights or loud noises, but there’s really nothing like seeing Manhattan’s skyscrapers lit up with a seriously dizzying amount of fireworks. I’m not joking, the display lasts an astounding 25 minutes.

San Diego

The secret ingredient: Ocean views

You get a double-show in San Diego thanks to the water. Though many big-city fireworks shows are launched from rivers (St. Louis, Boston, NOLA, etc.), San Diego’s fireworks are launched from barges on the ocean.

You won’t need to fight for a great viewing spot since there are four barges. And they run in sync with each other, creating a truly massive show that takes up the night sky.

I also guarantee you’ll spend a good amount of time gaping at the ocean as the colorful reflections dance off the surface.

New Orleans

The secret ingredient: Parade culture

When you think about parties in the United States, New Orleans should be one of the first places that comes to mind. And while it’s more famous for its second lines and Mardi Gras parades, NOLA also throws an amazing 4^th of July party.

Unsurprisingly, there’s a parade that includes plenty of floats, along with a handful of public concerts throughout its most popular neighborhoods.

But when the sun sets, all eyes focus on the river when the city’s infamous General Roy S. Kelley fireboat sails out to shoot red, white, and blue fireworks into the sky.

St. Louis

The secret ingredient: A national backdrop

The St. Louis Arch is one of the city’s most iconic landmarks whose grounds are regularly used to host massive celebrations.

In case you didn’t know, St. Louis shares a French colonial history with both Detroit to the north and New Orleans to the south. That means Mardi Gras is big business in St. Louis—and so are parades.

The 4^th of July celebrations kick off with a downtown parade (yes, there are floats) that eventually ends at the St. Louis Arch. There, visitors are treated to a top-tier fireworks show with the Arch as a proud backdrop. There’s also an airshow that’s worth mentioning for fans of fast planes.

AI Trip Planning: How to Use AI to Plan Your Next Vacation

Travel agents are on the rise again—and so are AI tools used for planning trips.

As AI models become more advanced and reliable, dozens of high-profile travel groups are adopting them to simplify the minutiae of planning trips.

On a smaller scale, travel agencies might use ChatGPT or similar tools to help them research a topic.

On the other hand, established travel brands are launching multi-million-dollar AI tools to simplify things for users. Booking and RyanAir are tinkering with their models.

Meanwhile, TripAdvisor already has a slightly more advanced formula in place. Then there are AI-driven travel tools like Ask Layla. Spoiler alert: she’s a robot.

While these tools still need a bit of time to gain ‘experience’ (via neural networks and machine-learning programs), they’re bound to become a part of the overall travel planning industry.

And you can use them to your advantage, too.

In general, I suggest using AI trip planning to kick off research when planning a trip yourself. If you’re thinking of using accessible and free AI models like ChatGPT, then follow these tips to avoid any mistakes.

Disclaimer: Always research any results from AI to verify them. And beware when researching duplicate names. For example, there are three Sierra Nevada Mountain ranges in the world—so get specific.

Tip #1: Generate tailored ideas

The more specific you are with AI programs, the more helpful their answers.

If you have a general idea about where you want to go and what you want to do on vacation, then you can generate more tailored ideas using AI. These should be personalized with your travel interests.

You can align these with some of your bucket list goals, whether finding a way to swim with the dolphins or sampling some unique fusion food. AI can help uncover really niche and unique experiences that you wouldn’t have known about otherwise.

Tip #2: Trawl reviews

AI can also do the heavy lifting for you.

One of the best ways for travelers to vet a potential lodging, tour, or other experience is to comb through the reviews. You can always offload this work to an AI program.

If you’re on the hunt for reviews that cover specific amenities, like noise levels and natural light, then plug in those keywords and ask AI to identify reviews that include them. This can help you get into the nitty-gritty of hotel, Airbnb, and other ratings.

Tip #3: Find and monitor deals

One of the best ways to save on flights is to use a price alert feature.

These notify you anytime flights and other types of transportation go below market price. But this is usually a tough game to play, as these deals will quickly go.

You can use an AI program to identify any potential deals that are live at that exact moment.

This is a much more efficient option than personally searching through various deal sites and airline websites. Once again, you need to read the fine print to verify these deals yourself—but AI can point you in the right direction.

Tip #4: Uncover hidden gems with multilingual features

One of the more unique forms of AI trip planning is doing research in other languages. (If you’re heading someplace that uses another alphabet, like Japan or India, then you might be out of luck.)

But if you’re heading to Spain, Mexico, or Argentina, for example, you can easily translate your travel-related searches into Spanish.

Search engines produce different results based on language. Part of that falls back to cultural contexts; search engines are taught to identify these based on the seacher’s language, location, and other data.

By using a different language (with the help of AI), you unlock different search results. In other words, you might uncover hidden gems that wouldn’t normally be marketed toward an English speaker.

Tip #5: Go green

As outlined above, the more specialized your trip plans are, the more AI can help point you in the right direction.

By far one of the most robust ways is through green trip planning.

While millions of travelers are interested in sustainable transportation, agencies and travel sites haven’t fully pivoted toward this. But AI can do a lot of legwork in helping you find greener forms of travel, whether booking a train ticket for a cross-country trip or looking for carbon-neutral tours.

Tip #6: Stick to a tight budget

AI can help you go green in more than one way.

If you want to save some of your hard-earned cash by focusing on travel deals, then use AI. Once again, it has the power to identify live price drops—but it can also help you budget for your trip.

That’s particularly helpful when you need to change currencies, as exchange rates are hard to keep track of.

The same is true when trying to forecast how much you might spend in a given place—AI programs can help you specify how much you should budget for based on your tastes.

Never Been to India? Start in Goa

If you’re looking for a byline from Shantaram, keep it moving.

I think there are fewer places more poorly cast in Hollywood films than India, now officially known as Bharat. (Except maybe Mexico… that sepia tint ain’t right.)

As someone who spent months in Sikkim and Bangalore (Bengaluru) studying for a Global Studies degree, I’m wary of how I describe India to those who have never been. I don’t want to paint an overly romantic picture of the country, nor do I want to gloss over its incredible diversity.

For decades, Western travelers have flocked to India on the hunt for spiritual enlightenment. Many left with a bastardized version of yoga and a preclusion for bindis.

I hope I don’t sound too judgy – I was very much on track to be one of these people once upon a time. So let me take you on a (brief) tour of India through the lens of one of its tiniest states: Goa. If you’ve never been to India and want to visit, this might be the best place to start.

Enter India

India defies simple conclusions.

It’s one of the most poverty-stricken places in the world. It’s also leading the world in renewable energy pursuits and is home to the world’s most expensive residential building.

Ten years after leaving, I’m still not sure how it changed me—I just know it did.

I suggest you enter the fray with a similar mindset: the acknowledgment that you’ll change with little expectations of how, specifically, that might happen. You don’t need to push for it, trust me—Bharat will give you no other choice.

I also suggest you consider visiting Goa before another hotspot like Agra, New Dehli, Amritsar, Kolkata, or Mumbai.

Goa is a former Portuguese colonial territory. It’s small, it’s more Westernized than other regions, and it’s a pretty good intro to the mind-bending reality of India.

Here’s why you should keep Goa on your radar, even if you never anticipated a trip to India.

It’s small and easy to explore

Goa is India’s smallest state.

On top of that, tourism is its primary industry—which means it has the infrastructure to host thousands of tourists. From hotels and hostels to nightclubs and restaurants, you’ll have a dizzying array of options.

Goa’s small size also means you can zip around its primary attractions easily. You can go from the beach into the state’s backwaters to enjoy nature in just a few hours. You can also visit Goa’s museums, forts, and other landmarks with a short taxi drive or by renting a car or moto yourself.

Just remember if you’re renting: they drive on the left side of the road, like in the UK.

The Pearl of the Orient: it’s got beaches, y’all!

Goa is known as the ‘Pearl of the Orient’ for its natural splendor.

I’m going to be very frank here: nature in India is stunning, but visiting them isn’t always relaxing. That’s because this is the most populous country in the world; you won’t find yourself alone in India often, if ever.

In the US, we tend to correlate natural wonders with a sense of peace. That’s not going to be the case in Goa—nor in most parts of Bharat.

Adjust your expectations and you’ll enjoy these sites more. Remember, the hustle and bustle is part of life in India. You won’t escape it.

That leads me to my next point: North Goa beaches like Pernem, Bardez, and Tiswadi are usually busy year-round. The same for South Goa beaches like Mormugao, Salcete, and Quepem.

They’ll be packed with beachgoers—so set up your space and sink into the vibrant vibe.

If you want to really explore nature, then check out Goa’s wildlife sanctuaries. The Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary is renowned around the world, while many also head to Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary. Don’t miss out on the Dudhsagar Falls, either, located inside the Bhagwan Mahaveer Sanctuary.

A blend of historical landmarks

One reason I suggest India first-timers head to Goa is its range of landmarks. As mentioned up top, this is a former Portuguese colony. (The names of the beaches should have been a giveaway.)

You’ll notice this colonial legacy in the region’s architecture, along with its museums. In Chandor, you can explore various heritage homes from the Portuguese. Along the coast, you can check out dozens of forts. The most famous are Corjuem Fort and Aguada Fort, both of which are open to visitors.

It’s party central for Indians & tourists alike

Want to know something that blew my mind about Indian tourism? Most tourists are domestic.

In Goa, you’ll be rubbing elbows with Indians from around the country.

Most speak English—and most are interested in making friends. From the bottom of my heart, I haven’t met a chattier and more helpful group of people when traveling before. Wherever you wander in Bharat, you’ll be shown great kindness and interest from many people.

In Goa, you’ll meet tons of Indians who are also enjoying their vacation. That usually opens up opportunities to make friends while abroad—and if you’re going to India, you should plan on making a few friends along the way.

Keep in mind that Goa is the birthplace of psytrance—a really high BPM form of electronic music. You’ll more than likely see concerts advertising electronic music. Be prepared, very prepared.

(Want to listen? Check out Anjuna Deep, a music collective that takes its name from the Goa beach where psytrance emerged. Want to listen to psytrance, specifically? You can hear psytrance for the first time along with these Indian uncles in this amazing video.)

Where to stay in Goa?

You can find some truly luxurious options in India or stick to a basic backpacker hostel. If it’s your first time in India, I suggest opting for a nicer accommodation. It will help you adjust to the heat, bustle, and new cuisines.

Or if you’re more comfortable traveling and have spent some time in South or Southeast Asia, then maybe you want a more private lodging. You can also look into Airbnbs in Goa, too.

Book an Airbnb in Goa or a hotel through Expedia.

British Virgin Islands vs. US Virgin Islands: Key Differences

East of Puerto Rico, you’ll find some of the Caribbean’s most beautiful islands: the British Virgin Islands and the US Virgin Islands.

Given their geographic proximity, you might not notice a difference between these two distinct countries.

Beaches in both are covered in white sand and home to crystal clear, turquoise waters. Healthy jungles overlook most of the shorelines, backdropped by emerald hills in some cases.

Clearly, both overseas territories are worth a visit—but what experiences can you expect from each?

The basics: USVI vs. BVI

The good news: travelers looking for a tropical getaway can’t go wrong with either.

The US Virgin Islands of Saint Thomas and Saint Croix are world-famous stopovers. Meanwhile, the British Virgin Islands are home to legendary places like Virgin Gorda Island, home of the Caribbean’s freest and fattest pigs.

Along with stunning beaches, both territories offer a similar reel of adventures.

You can enjoy the water by snorkeling and scuba diving, deep-sea fishing, and parasailing. On land, hiking is popular, along with more relaxing experiences like spa treatments and shopping.

Still, there are a few notable distinctions. Want to know the key differences between the British Virgin Islands vs. US Virgin Islands? Here are the five main differences.

US Virgin Islands offer better nightlife

The US Virgin Islands have a lot more infrastructure compared to its British counterpart.

What does that mean directly for tourists? If you’re a little hesitant about getting off the beaten path, then you’ll feel right at home on Saint Thomas and Saint Croix.

The main drags on both islands are home to world-class resorts from Wyndham, Hilton, and more. You can find massive casinos and luxury shopping centers within walking distance. Many tourists also spend a good amount of time at nightclubs, both casual and extravagant.

In general, you’ll find a lot more to do on the US Virgin Islands when it comes to nightlife and entertainment. The same is true for the available number of large-scale resorts.

British Virgin Islands are bigger for yachting & sailing

The British Virgin Islands have a reputation for yachting and sailing, by comparison. Tortola, the largest island in the British Virgin Islands, is known for attracting some of the region’s finest sailboats and yachts.

If you’re heading on a bougie cruise in the Caribbean anytime soon, you’ll most definitely be stopping over in Tortola at some point.

Because the British Virgin Islands are less crowded (more on this below), many charters stick to its tiny coves and islets.

British Virgin Islands are more rustic and rugged

That leads me to my next point: overwhelmingly, the British Virgin Islands are less developed than the US Virgin Islands. If you like air-conditioning and big screens, that’s probably a bad thing.

But if you like to escape from reality and other travelers, it’s probably a huge plus.

The British Virgin Islands has many tiny islands that allow visitors to really drop off the map, including Anegada. These are some of the loneliest (or most peaceful) shores in the Caribbean, which makes the British Virgin Islands a great choice for those who want classically stunning beaches without all the cabanas.

US Virgin Islands speaks more languages

In terms of culture, the US Virgin Islands and British Virgin Islands closely mirror that of the US and UK. The English in USVI comes with an American accent, while the BVI speaks with a British accent.

Then, there’s Spanish. Every year, the United States tilts more toward a bilingual nation. The same is true for the US Virgin Islands.

Not only are they in closer proximity to Spanish-speaking islands like Puerto Rico, but many US citizens who live there also speak a bit of Spanish. You’ll also hear variations of Caribbean Creole, as there’s a larger African population in the US Virgin Islands.

British Virgin Islands has fewer tourists and higher prices

Generally speaking, the US Virgin Islands are more accessible financially. Not only that, but tourists will feel at home and comfortable thanks to all the Americanized resources available.

The British Virgin Islands, by contrast, have fewer resorts. And they tend to be more luxurious and remote.

Most are also located on smaller islands, requiring travel via boat or seaplane. I think Necker Island, the private abode of Richard Branson, paints a fairly accurate picture of life in the British Virgin Islands compared to its US counterpart.

FAQs: British Virgin Islands vs. US Virgin Islands

What entry requirements and travel documents are necessary for entry?

Americans can enter the US Virgin Islands with a passport or a valid state ID. Entry to the British Virgin Islands requires a passport to entry for US citizens. If you’re a non-US citizen, check to make sure whether you need a visa to enter.

What currency and payment methods can be used in each country?

Both the US Virgin Islands and the British Virgin Islands use the US Dollar.

Shopping Around for Travel Agencies? Start Here

The data is in: millennials and Gen X are flocking to travel agencies once again.

But what’s behind the sudden uptick after decades of steady decline at travel agencies?

To put it simply, travel agents can take the work out of planning trips while also delivering a truly unforgettable and budget-friendly adventure.

In short: they’re worth the fees in many cases.

But that doesn’t mean that every travel agency shines. If you’re considering working with a travel agent, take a closer look at how they work and what you can expect from the experience.

For certain groups, especially active and retired military, travel agents can leverage hefty deals.

In other cases, on the other hand, a travel agent might only provide the barest assistance in booking hotels, flights, and more. Expedia, for example, is considered a travel agency.

There’s great variation, in other words.

For now, let’s stick with well-known and up-and-coming agencies that are geared toward US travelers. Since they came back into fashion (starting around 2020), the travel agency industry has evolved in more than one way.

Want to explore the top-rated travel agencies in the US? Do it here. I’ve got the crème of the crop listed below.

Top-rated travel agencies

There’s no one-size-fits-all travel agency. My selections are based on the number of positive reviews, recommendations from major publications, and specialized approaches. All options listed below meet the American Society of Travel Advisors accreditation.

Bindlestiff

Great for joining hiking and adventurous outdoor trips. Learn more.

Zicasso

Zicasso connects you to travel agents who create tours around the world. Explore your interests with no limits. Learn more.

SkyAuction

This travel agency is geared toward finding steep travel deals. Think: SAVINGS. Learn more.

Trevolution Group

Similar to Zicasso, this travel agency puts you in direct contact with agents who can make your dreams come true. They’ve got a broad reach in the travel world, connecting you to unique opportunities. Learn more.

Global Work & Travel

Take on volunteer positions around the world to make a difference while you travel. Learn more.

One Nation Travel

Ideal for Americans who want to explore the world’s most popular wonders. There’s incredible variation with One Nation, so if you aren’t sure where to start, this is a great place. Learn more.

Liberty Travel

You can find tours that cover a huge range of themes, from romantic couples getaways to cultural tours. If you have something specific in mind, start with Liberty. Learn more.

G Adventures

This young and lean travel agency is geared toward younger travelers who might not have the deepest pockets. However, they also offer specialized tours, like women’s only trips. Learn more.