All great photographs are the result of a few things coming together: the right time, right place and right conditions. And this might just be the great leveller in travel photography – it doesn’t matter how experienced you are, or how high-end your camera kit is, if the conditions aren’t right, you’re probably not going to get the photographs you’ve been dreaming of.

But this doesn’t necessarily mean that Mother Nature has the upper hand – or that creating wonderful images is simply a matter of luck and chance. There is a lot we can control before we even pick up our cameras. Being in the right place at the right time comes about through careful research and planning. If you’ve done the preparation, your chances of being in a dream location at the optimal moment are hugely improved, so plan ahead and prioritise photography when devising any travel itinerary.

1. Do the prep

Professional travel photographers do extensive research before planning a trip, including calling up tourism boards or scouting for locations via photo libraries or Google Earth. Their interest might even have been piqued by a chance encounter with a single photograph years before, and it could well be some time before a commission lands to make that dream destination and assignment a reality. If there’s time to dream, then reading around a location, learning a little of the language or discovering more about the cuisine that’s connected to it are sensory ways of preparing. As we’ve all found from our virtual travels during the Covid-19 pandemic, this ‘method acting’ equivalent of travel immersion means we can have an almost-lived experience of a place we’ve not yet set foot in.

2. Deciding where and why

It might seem harsh, but you should probably question your motives before even beginning to think about booking a ticket. If you’ve decided you want to recreate images you’ve seen elsewhere of people in remote communities, parachuting into a place that doesn’t know you, with a large lens and limited time, is not going to serve anyone well.

You might also want to consider how ethical it is to photograph in popular destinations. Instead of visiting a town that sees thousands of visitors every week, perhaps choosing somewhere with a little less footfall could result in a trip that’s transformational for you, as well as the community you interact with.

Are there peoples whose stories are seldom told, that might serve as more interesting subjects? It’s a fine balance to tread, but it often seems to be the case that towns and villages off the beaten track can be more welcoming and photographic subjects more amenable than those who’ve been at the centre of tourism for decades. You’re also more likely to come away with original images, rather than the usual Instagram fare – and that will increase your chances of getting published too.

Joining a group tour where photography isn’t front and centre might seem like it will take the strain out of planning, but you’ll be constantly on the hop, reacting when and wherever you can to what’s around you – passive and at the mercy of everyone else’s whims. It can be incredibly frustrating to be sitting on a bus as you pull out of a town just when the light begins to glow on a mountainous backdrop. Tour guides will want to keep everyone well fed and safe, so your poetic remonstrations on the ‘heavenly light’ will be politely ignored as it fades into the distance, with your distraught face pressed to the glass. If you do join a tour that isn’t dedicated to photography, look carefully at the itinerary and the amount of time allocated to each spot. If it looks like you won’t have room to manoeuvre, think at least about adding some days at the start or the end of the trip, or forego one or two of the group meals.

3. Stay longer

One of the best bits of advice I received at the start of my career was to stay in one destination for longer, to allow enough time for conditions to be just so. As you plan your journey, allocate time to bed down in one location – whether that’s a landscape for a series of sunsets or a town for the weekend’s festivities. Get to know your destination. Making a photograph should be a process of immersion – in a place for long enough to feel a connection, or by building relationships through conversation or time. It’s true for all travel, but fundamental for photographers – unhurried journeys will reap all sorts of benefits, so ensure slow travel is part of your itinerary whenever possible.

4. Choose your season

Natural light and the length of the day will vary with the season, as will weather patterns and the behaviour or prevalence of wildlife. Deciding on your photographic priorities will help you determine exactly when to go. Reputable travel photography tours are always organised with these considerations in mind, but do your own checks too.

5. Have time to go solo

Think carefully about who you choose to travel with. Of course, it’s wonderful to have your partner or a close friend along for the ride, and you’ll doubtless have no shortage of offers to accompany you when excited friends see you packing your kit for Kyrgyzstan! But travelling alone is what most working travel photographers prefer. It’s easy to be distracted when you are chatting away, and mostly impossible to ‘see’ what potential photographs are around you. Feeling your way in a destination is not about hitting the hotspots that everyone has photographed before you, but sensing the atmosphere, staying attuned to changes in weather or picking up local advice in a café while you’re having some downtime. Those chance encounters happen more frequently when you travel solo – there’s nothing like a lone stranger to attract hospitality and small acts of kindness. And it may well lead you down all sorts of exciting avenues you could never have planned for.

6. Plan ahead

The best light is often when everyone else is having breakfast or dinner, and, while you’ll be happy to eat snacks on the move or wait two days for the weather to improve, your companion may not. Ensure any travel buddies know exactly what your plans are and work in time for each of you to explore at your own pace. Even better, travel with a group that’s dedicated to photography, as everything will be optimised for seeing places when the light is at its best. Be warned though – it can be difficult to take original images if you’re always side by side. Again, find time to head off on your own, to feel your way, and to find your subjects and compose shots without the pressure of someone looking over your shoulder

7. Revisit a destination

Many of us are inspired by new cultures and places we’ve never encountered before. For photographers though, going back to a familiar destination allows us to pick up where we left off, and removes any anxiety that we might have missed something important. You can prioritise where you want to go, safe in the knowledge that you’ve done your homework and photographed your key shots already. Time now to go off piste, and maybe even get a bit lost

8. Organise your time like a pro

Once you’ve decided when and where you’re going, it’s time to start thinking about exactly what you want to photograph. With the initial research completed, you can draw sketches, write out a shot list of images you’d like to capture, and previsualise the ‘hero shot’ – maybe a particular landscape or landmark that is the inspiration for your journey. If you can pre-imagine those photographs, it’s a simple matter to devise a specific itinerary that prioritises where you need to be and when, with time for recces, to wait things out or to practise.

Once those dawn or golden-hour locations are mapped out, with daytime visits to museums or markets when outdoor light is at its harshest, your travel photography itinerary will begin to take shape. And those gaps in between are where you allow for flow – to relax and be in the moment, opening yourself up to spontaneity and on-the-ground inspiration. Oh, and yes, you might also find time for some fine dining or culinary experiences! Alternatively, just make like a pro, and fill the tiny spaces of your backpack with oatcakes, protein bars and tangerines, just in case that heavenly light reappears.

South Korea has become a major travel destination in the past few years. Here are ten tips for first-time visitors before booking a trip to Korea.

Over the past years, South Korea has become a significant tourist destination. Many attribute the increase in international tourism to the Chinese term Hallyu or the “Korean Wave.” Hallyu refers to the global recognition and popularity of Korean media, music, dramas, movies, celebrities, idols, and popular culture. Over the past few years, groups such as BTS and BlackPink have gained a substantial international following and fan base, putting South Korea on many people’s bucket lists.

From its history to its culture to its landscapes to its delicious cuisine South Korea is a place everyone should visit once in their life. However, there is much to know before booking a trip to Korea since Korean culture can be much different from Western culture. From checking visa requirements to social etiquette to respecting cultural differences, it is essential to take notes before booking a trip to South Korea. Here are ten tips and things to know before traveling to South Korea.

1. K-ETA Visa

Before booking a trip, it is essential to research the visas, Covid restrictions, and airport transfers in South Korea. The K-ETA Visa is an electronic visa that gives travel authorization to non-Korean visitors. It is essential to obtain this visa before entering the Republic of Korea; it can take up to 72 hours to get the visa. Travelers can get more information and complete the form online at the official Korea Electronic Travel Authorization site.

2. Q-Code

With the pandemic, the world has changed, and so has how countries regulate immigration. We can learn a lot from how South Korea handled Covid-19, and one of the ways they keep track is the Q-Code. The Q-Code is a QR code that holds vaccination information for travelers to South Korea. This is a Covid related code needed to scan during immigration upon entry. Downloading the QR code will ensure more efficient access to South Korea. However, a yellow slip will be passed out to fill on the plane for travelers who still need to fill out the Q-code in advance. Travelers can access the Q-Code on the official application portal to fill out the registration.

3. Learn Basic Words In Korean

There are many things to know before visiting South Korea. However, before visiting any country, it’s essential to research and learns keywords to communicate with locals, but also out of respect by not assuming everyone speaks English. Generally, most visitors will be able to communicate in English, so learning basic vital phrases, greetings, and essential phrases to share will be extremely useful in Korea.

4. Download KakaoMap Or Naver Map

One of the crucial tips before traveling to Korea is to download one navigation app widely used in the country. Many travelers will find that Google Maps is not commonly used in South Korea, where many locations are not marked on the app. Downloading apps such as Kakao and Naver will be very useful for navigating South Korea. KakaoMap will show the fastest routes to attractions, restaurants, shops, and more. Naver Map is great for looking up transportation directions such as public transportation, biking, bus routes, walking, etc.

5. Take Off Your Shoes

It is essential to research etiquette tips before traveling to South Korea. Generally, before entering someone’s house in South Korea, one must take off one’s shoes regardless of who they are. This is also something practiced in some establishments, such as restaurants with floor seating where guests must remove their shoes before entering. Before dining or visiting a particular, it is essential to research and respect the culture by learning about South Korean etiquette.

6. Tipping Is Not Necessary

Many travelers from the United States may be surprised that not all countries have the same tipping culture. It is almost expected in most establishments to leave a tip in the States. However, it is not required nor expected to leave a tip in South Korea. This is true for most restaurants, bars, hotels, taxis, etc. It is important to note that insisting on tipping may be considered rude in Korea.

7. Best Time To Visit Korea

For most travelers, the best time to visit South Korea is during the spring and autumn seasons. This is primarily due to the weather, giving visitors a more comfortable setting. There are many stunning places to visit on vacation in South Korea, and choosing the right time to avoid extreme cold and heat will be beneficial before booking a trip to Korea. One of the best reasons to visit South Korea in the spring is to see the pink cherry blossoms bloom all around!

8. Get A Korean SIM Card

Before traveling to any Country, it is a helpful trick to check if all SIM cards work in that country. With limited service, using one’s SIM card while traveling in South Korea may be challenging. Getting a prepaid SIM card will be very useful before taking a trip to Korea for access to the internet, maps, phone calls, texting, and much more. In Korea, roaming costs can get very pricey, so investing in a prepaid SIM card will be very beneficial. However, it is essential to note that a phone must be unlocked to use a different SIM card.

9. Go Hiking

Most travelers visiting South Korea for the first time primarily plan a trip to Seoul and explore all the city has to offer. However, one of South Korea’s many beauties is its vast mountainous ranges, making it the perfect place to go hiking. Experience South Korea’s beauties and picturesque outdoors by making time to go hiking. It will be an unforgettable hike, from volcanoes to green landscapes to breathtaking sunsets!

10. Papago App

Language barriers while traveling may make it hard for many travelers. When traveling to Korea, the widely used Papago app will be handy when communicating with locals. It is an excellent resource for translating texts, images, websites, and more. It has an easy-to-use design and will be very helpful while traveling in South Korea.

8 iconic tourist destinations ruined by overtourism

For years, tourism has been lauded for its role in facilitating cultural exchange, stimulating economies, and promoting global understanding. Nevertheless, the negative impacts of overtourism have gained prominence in recent times. Overtourism manifests when popular destinations are overwhelmed by visitors, surpassing their sustainable limits and resulting in environmental degradation, overcrowding, cultural dilution, and infrastructure strain. Below are notable locations worldwide wrestling with the detrimental consequences of overtourism.

1. Venice, Italy

The charming canals of Venice have attracted tourists in search of romance and history for many years. However, the city’s delicate ecosystem is now at risk due to the overwhelming number of visitors. This influx has resulted in pollution, the erosion of historic structures, and growing frustration among residents who are being priced out of their neighborhoods by the surge in vacation rentals.

2. Great Barrier Reef, Australia

The Great Barrier Reef, the world’s largest coral reef system and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, draws diving and snorkeling enthusiasts from around the globe. However, the reef is confronted with challenges such as rising sea temperatures, pollution, and damage from boat anchors and tourism, all of which have significantly impacted its well-being. Consequently, this has led to widespread coral bleaching and a decline in the overall ecosystem health.

3. Machu Picchu, Peru

Sitting atop the Andes Mountains, Machu Picchu stands as one of the globe’s most renowned archaeological marvels. Nevertheless, its fame has sparked worries regarding the erosion of its ancient stone edifices, harm to fragile ecosystems, and congestion along the Inca Trail. These concerns have spurred appeals for tighter visitor regulations and the adoption of sustainable tourism methods.

4. Dubrovnik, Croatia

The medieval walled city of Dubrovnik, often hailed as the ‘Pearl of the Adriatic,’ has experienced a tourism boom following its prominent portrayal in the television series ‘Game of Thrones.’ This influx of visitors has strained the city’s infrastructure, leading to the deterioration of historic sites and sparking worries regarding authenticity and cultural conservation.

5. Bali, Indonesia

Bali’s stunning beaches, lush landscapes, and vibrant culture have made it a favourite destination for travellers worldwide. However, the island has struggled to cope with the influx of visitors, leading to environmental degradation, traffic congestion, and clashes between tourists and locals over water shortages and land disputes.

6. Barcelona, Spain

The vibrant city of Barcelona has become synonymous with overtourism, fueled by the popularity of attractions like Gaudí’s Sagrada Familia and the bustling La Rambla promenade. Locals have protested against skyrocketing rents, overcrowded streets, and disruption to everyday life, leading authorities to implement measures to curb tourist numbers and regulate vacation rentals.

7. Angkor Wat, Cambodia

The sprawling temple complex of Angkor Wat is one of Southeast Asia’s most iconic landmarks. However, the site has been swamped by tourists in recent years, leading to damage to delicate carvings, erosion of ancient structures, and concerns about the impact of mass tourism on the surrounding communities and environment.

8. Prague, Czech Republic

The fairytale city of Prague, with its stunning architecture and rich history, has become a victim of its own charm. The historic centre, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is often swarmed with tourists, leading to overcrowded streets, strain on infrastructure, and rising housing costs for locals. The influx of visitors has also sparked debates about the preservation of cultural heritage and the need for sustainable tourism management in this beloved European destination.

Where can you see the northern lights in the U.S.? The answer might surprise you.

You don’t need a passport to catch one of the world’s most awe-inspiring natural wonders. Normally, you’d have to head north to destinations like Norway, Finland, and Iceland in hopes of catching a glimpse of the northern lights, and while all of these destinations are well worth traveling to, there are a few less-expected spots right here in the United States where you can see the spectacular celestial show.

High solar activity is essential to seeing the lights, particularly in the U.S. When the sun emits superheated plasma, otherwise known as a coronal mass ejection (CME), it can trigger a massive “geomagnetic storm,” which causes the Earth’s auroras to ramp up. However, solar weather is hard to predict, so you’ll need to be prepared (and have a little resiliency) for your best chance at an aurora light show. Use digital tools like NOAA’s forecast tool and Night Sky Alerts to keep track of solar activity and be alerted to the best times to catch the northern lights in your area.

Locations in higher latitudes (which are closer to what’s known as the “Aurora Oval,” or the area with the strongest geomagnetic activity) are ideal for spotting the aurora borealis, so the phenomenon can be seen in the northern United States if the conditions are right. Longer, darker nights (like around a new moon) and clear skies are best. You’ll also want to be aware of when the equinoxes occur (in September and March) because solar activity tends to be high around these times due to the Earth’s tilt in relation to the sun.

With that in mind, here are eight of the best places to spot the northern lights in the U.S.

1. Idaho

When geomagnetic storms are big enough, the northern lights can be visible as far south as northern Idaho. Head to sites like Priest Lake and the Idaho Panhandle National Forest to maximize your chances of seeing the lights.

2. Minnesota

The northern lights can be seen in parts of the Midwest, like northern Minnesota, when the conditions are just right. Cook County is actually one of the best places to spot the phenomenon in the lower 48 states.

Not only will there need to be a massive solar storm, but you will also need to be in an area that is dark and free of light pollution. When a solar storm happens, make your way out of the city and into a dark area. Park yourself beneath the stars and wait for the show to (hopefully) begin.

3. Pennsylvania

Pennsylvania has an advantage when it comes to northern lights viewing potential, as it is home to Cherry Springs State Park, a Dark Sky Reserve. There, visitors can stay overnight, join tours, and even take a photography class to improve their skills and possibly capture the aurora in action. Visit the Overnight Astronomy Observation Field for 360-degree views of the night sky — even if you don’t spot the northern lights, you’ll still enjoy some of the country’s best stargazing.

4. Michigan

The northern lights can sometimes be spotted from Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. Michigan is also home to a Dark Sky Park, the Headlands International Dark Sky Park. Although the park has ideal conditions for viewing the northern lights, they can be unpredictable. Keep your expectations low and you’ll be pleasantly surprised if you catch a glimpse of the lights over these woodlands.

5. Alaska

Because of its location within the auroral oval and dark skies, Alaska is one of the best places in the world to see the northern lights, and lucky for American travelers, you don’t even need a passport to get there. Fairbanks, Utqiagvik, and Coldfoot are among the best places to visit for a chance to see the northern lights. Visitors can even opt for a guided tour for expert viewing advice. Head to an inland location during March for your best chances of seeing the phenomenon in the Last Frontier.

6. Wisconsin

Auroras have been known to appear in the skies over several of Wisconsin’s natural landscapes. Head to the Apostle Islands or Washington Island in Door County for the chance of glimpsing the lights. The Great Lakes are another perfect backdrop for viewing the colorful phenomenon, and Wisconsin is situated on both Lake Michigan and Lake Superior, all the better for northern lights viewing when frozen over.

7. North Dakota

This northern state is the perfect place for night sky viewing if you’re trying to see the northern lights. Scenic areas like Theodore Roosevelt National Park and Mystical Horizons in the Turtle Mountains near Bottineau are ideal for those clear skies you’ll need to catch the auroras. North Dakota’s Martens Observatory has actually installed a pair of cameras that provide a public livestream of the night sky that will capture auroras when they appear overhead.

8. Maine

The mostly rural state offers plenty of stargazing opportunities. It’s also home to the Dark Sky Sanctuary, the Katahdin Woods & Waters National Monument, making Maine the best place east of the Mississippi to catch the northern lights. There’s also an International Dark Sky Park in the Appalachian Mountain Club’s Maine woods, as well as other remote, clear spots where the auroras might be spotted.