Have you ever scrolled through your social media feed, only to see your friends roaming in picture-perfect destinations that seem too good to be true?
While these places may look like a dream, the reality can sometimes fall short of expectations. Social media is far away from reality. It does not show you the real side but only allures you. It is because content creators focus on making everything look beautiful to you. Let’s talk about the destinations are not so cool in real life.
Almaty
Due to its low traveling cost and social media hype, Almaty has become extremely famous. It is a city that often graces travel influencers' feeds with its stunning landscapes and modern skyline. However, behind the perfectly curated photos lies a bustling metropolis struggling with traffic congestion and air pollution.
While may showcase Almaty's picturesque parks and markets, visitors might encounter crowded streets and noise pollution instead. The city's charm can be overshadowed by its rapid urban development, transforming it into a maze of high-rise buildings and concrete jungles.
Don't get me wrong, I am not saying it is a bad place as Almaty has its share of hidden gems like Kok Tobe Hill offering panoramic views or the tranquil Big Almaty Lake for nature lovers to explore. Having said that, what you see on social media is not true and the cost of traveling to Almaty is also not that low.
Baku
They say, if you cannot go to Dubai, go to Baku. Is it really the same? Well, no. The juxtaposition of futuristic skyscrapers against the backdrop of the Caspian Sea might create a unique visual appeal but it is not what Dubai is.
Talking about the budget, you can wander through the narrow streets of the Old City to immerse yourself in its rich cultural heritage and indulge in local cuisine at traditional restaurants serving up delicious food, but all that comes with a cost.
If you are still up for the place, don't miss out on exploring the iconic Flame Towers but make do not expect Dubai like serenity and nightlife from this place. Baku may have gained popularity through social media, but there's so much more to discover beyond the Instagram filters.
Mongolia
Mongolia has captured the imagination of adventurers alike with its vast steppes and rugged landscapes. Mongolia paints a picture of endless exploration and raw beauty with its nomadic culture, iconic Gobi Desert, and untamed wilderness. Although social media images may seem filtered, the reality lies beneath them.
It may seem idyllic to sleep under the stars in a traditional ger or ride across the plains on horseback, but the practicalities of traveling in Mongolia can be challenging. Transport and accommodation logistics can be complicated outside of Ulaanbaatar because of the sparse infrastructure.
It is also unforgiving for travelers unprepared for the extreme temperatures, with scorching summers and bitter winters. The journey can be unpredictable due to dust storms in the Gobi and biting cold on the Mongolian steppe.
Spiti
Spiti, with its rugged terrain and remote location, has become a sought-after destination for travelers seeking off-the-beaten-path adventures. However, the increasing influx of tourists drawn in by social media has started to take a toll on this fragile ecosystem.
The allure of Spiti untouched landscapes and nomadic culture cannot be denied, but navigating its vast expanses and adapting to its rugged conditions can be a far cry from the curated images on social media. As a destination, it demands resilience and an adventurous spirit.
While it's undeniable that social media has the power to showcase stunning destinations and inspire wanderlust, it's essential for travelers to be mindful of their impact on these places.
