When planning a trip, you want to make sure that your destination is the best fit for your travel style. Researching the destination will help you avoid surprises and ensure that your vacation is an enjoyable experience.

The best ways to research a travel destination are through visual and auditory media. Here are 8 Ways to Research a Travel Destination Before You Go.

1. Google Maps

When it comes to figuring out the best way to travel to your destination, Google Maps is an excellent resource. You can build a custom map with all your planned destinations and transportation options and get a step-by-step plan for how to get there.

You can also categorize activities, like hiking trails or museums, and color-code them by priority. This makes it easier to narrow down your itinerary and saves time when you’re trying to figure out how to fill your vacation days!

2. YouTube

YouTube offers travel companies a platform to showcase unique destinations through video. They can create vlogs that give travelers a sensory experience of what they can expect to see, feel and do when visiting.

When searching for travel content on YouTube, consumers focus most of their attention on destinations. This gives travel companies a huge opportunity to highlight smaller, lesser-known destinations that they offer. For example, Skyscanner published a video on Iceland and saw their website traffic increase 59% year-on-year.

3. TripAdvisor

Unless you’re using an incognito or private browser, you are likely being subject to a significant amount of targeted marketing on TripAdvisor. Some reviews are deleted because they violate the company’s family-friendly policy, are second-hand or hearsay, or because they don’t meet other content guidelines.

With that said, it is still a great resource to find reviews on hotels and restaurants. The travel forums can also be very helpful. Whether you use it as a starting point or a final destination, TripAdvisor is an essential tool to have at your disposal.

4. Pinterest

Pinterest is a visual search engine that has been great for travel blogs and businesses. Tour operators, hotels, airbnbs and many other travel-related businesses have been using it to reach their target audience in a new way.

Reach travelers in the inspiration phase, booking and planning phases of their trip with a well-managed Pinterest profile. Create inspiring imagery and include keywords and descriptions for each pin. Consider utilizing rich pins, which give additional content on the website directly in a Pin.

5. Podcasts

Travel podcasts are a great way to learn about new destinations. From practical advice on travelling to a specific destination to interviews with locals, these shows can help you get a feel for a place before you even leave home.

Travel podcasters range from digital nomads to those with more traditional day jobs. Palle Bo, for example, is a Danish broadcaster and podcaster who sold everything to quit his job to travel the world full-time.

Skift is an industry news podcast that features a range of guest speakers from various travel fields. Recent episodes have covered topics like the impact of Covid-19 and airline sub-brands.

6. Instagram

Researching a travel destination before you go can seem like a huge chore, but it doesn’t have to be. In fact, it can be one of the most fun parts of planning a trip!

Using video resources such as TikTok Reels and Instagram Stories can be an effective way to research a travel destination. These bite-size videos can show you travel itineraries, reviews and more in less than 60 seconds! This is especially useful for travellers with busy schedules.

7. WikiTravel

Much like a good old-fashioned travel guide book, online travel articles can offer a wealth of recommendations. You’ll find everything from the must-see sights to the most off-the-beaten-path locations.

Travel bloggers often write about their own experiences in a particular place, giving you first-hand advice. They will likely also be able to connect you with locals and other travelers.

Many people become active Wikitravel contributors because they feel strongly about a specific destination or region. Contributing can help kids improve their Writing skills while practicing Self-Awareness.

8. Local Newspapers

Local newspapers can be an excellent source of information for travel. They can provide details on popular attractions, as well as give advice from people who have already visited the destination.

For those who prefer to hold something tangible in their hands, a traditional travel guide book is still an option. These books are packed with helpful tips and cultural insights. Many also include maps. They can also help travelers find the best hotels and save money by knowing how much things should cost.