Millions of Brits are ‘fed up’ of travel photos showing unrealistic, picture-perfect scenes.
A study of 2,000 adults found 29 per cent would rather see ‘authentic’ snaps showing what the holiday was really like than the ideal images.
In fact, travellers are seven times MORE likely to visit a destination after seeing a picture posted on social media that shows its true colours.
It also emerged 'hot dogs or legs' pictures are the most annoying holiday photos you see on social media, according to 26 per cent of adults.
As a result, hotel chain Hampton by Hilton has appointed documentary photographer Ian Weldon to reveal the ‘real’ side of British holidays, with a new series titled ‘This is Real Travel’.
Over three days in a busy hotel, Ian captured a series of candid photographs showcasing the warmth, fun and human connection of travellers.
The images range from Morris dancers in full regalia getting to grips with a waffle maker, to football fans having a post-match pint and the flurry of girlfriends getting ready for a night out.
They all star genuine hotel guests in action and will be used by Hampton by Hilton to celebrate the real travel moments that take place at its hotels.
Ian Weldon said: “This series is all about celebrating those heart-warming and often humorous connections that happen when we travel.
“I hope it shines a light on the fun and friendliness that can be found in every single type of trip.
“The images bring to life the real side of travel by celebrating the connections that make travelling experiences so special but often don’t make the photo album.”
The study also found that in reality, only 10 per cent of Brits’ annual leave is spent taking exotic long-haul holidays.
Instead, the rest goes on trips in the UK and Europe, with 35 per cent going on ‘occasion’ travel like concerts, sporting events and family birthdays.
The USA, Italy and the Caribbean continue to top the bucket list of dream destinations for 2020, but the research, carried out via OnePoll, shows more Brits will be travelling to London, the Lake District and Edinburgh this year.
Tal Shefer, vice president of Hampton by Hilton EMEA, said: “With nearly 20 per cent of Brits admitting they would like to see people using no filters for travel photography in 2020, we couldn’t be happier to partner with Ian Weldon to launch our ‘This Is Real Travel’ campaign.
“When it comes to trips, Hampton keeps it real.
“Whenever you stay with us, you can count on our free hot breakfast, waffles included, and Wi-Fi as standard, along with happiness guaranteed.”
To view the full ‘This is Real Travel’ series and for a look behind the scenes of the shoot visit https://newsroom.hilton.com/
Top Dream Travel Destinations for 2020
1. USA
2. Italy
3. Caribbean
4. Australia
5. New Zealand
6. Barbados
7. Japan
8. Greece
9. Canary Islands
10. Spain
Most Realistic Travel Destinations for 2020
1. London
2. Lake District
3. Edinburgh
4. Manchester
5. York
6. Spain
7. Liverpool
8. Italy
9. Cotswolds
10. France
