Travel like an influencer: Embrace luxury and boost your mental health

In a world dominated by meticulously curated social media feeds, where sun-drenched infinity pools in Santorini and rooftop breakfasts in Bangkok seem to be the everyday for social media influencers, it’s easy to feel that luxury travel is solely for those with brand partnerships and endless vacation days.

But could it be possible for you, too, to capture that influencer lifestyle, even if only for a fleeting night?

The reality is that you don't need a massive following or a wardrobe brimming with designer pieces to experience travel like an influencer.

What many seek when scrolling through idyllic travel snapshots is not just the stunning locales but the intoxicating feelings associated with them—the liberation, the adventure, the opportunity to reconnect with oneself.

Recent data from Expedia’s 2025 Travel Trends Report reveals that over 62% of travellers now favour short, restorative trips over lengthy, expensive getaways.

These enticing "micro-cations," typically lasting one to three nights, provide a welcomed escape for busy professionals yearning to recharge without exhausting their annual leave.

One exemplary option for such an escape is the Radisson OR Tambo, nestled near Johannesburg’s international airport.

This establishment epitomises accessible luxury and mental rejuvenation.

More than just a place to rest your head, it serves as a serene sanctuary for relaxation, offering tranquil spa treatments, an inviting outdoor pool, and modern rooms designed with your comfort in mind—think blackout curtains and plush bedding tailored to enhance relaxation.

There is a compelling connection emerging between short-term travel and enhanced mental well-being.

Research shows that individuals indulging in frequent mini getaways report 30% lower stress levels compared to those who save their leave for one or two large vacations.

Just one night away from the familiar can disrupt relentless stress cycles, soothe the nervous system, and inspire newfound mental clarity.

Moreover, these rejuvenating getaways can spark creativity. Influencers are often lauded for their talent at uncovering the unique charm in a location, whether it's capturing the perfect coffee cup angle, utilizing golden hour photography, or matching stylish outfits to picturesque settings.

However, this knack for finding beauty through travel is not exclusive to influencers. Today, more individuals are using quick trips as personal canvases, offering them the chance to craft beautiful content.

Whether it's an Instagram shot of an exquisitely plated breakfast, a whimsical Get Ready With Me video in a charming boutique hotel, or journaling against a breathtaking skyline, they aren’t merely vacating; they are experiencing and engaging in a way that celebrates joy, elegance, and presence.

“In today’s fast-paced world, we all require moments that feel cinematic, not just through our screens but in our reality,” says Setshego Ledwaba, Marketing & Communications Manager at Radisson OR Tambo.

“Whether it’s a one-night escape or a weekend retreat, we want our guests to feel like the main character in their own story. Travel doesn’t have to be about far-off destinations or lavish budgets; it’s about creating meaningful experiences that recharge the mind and inspire the soul whilst also being visually stunning.”

Social media platforms like Instagram and TikTok are inundated with content showcasing accessible luxury, from charming local boutique stays to hidden gem dining experiences.

Imagine indulging in a well-designed hotel room just 30 minutes from home, delighting in a bubble bath, unwinding with a gripping novel, and ordering room service—now, that’s a definition of luxury.

Ultimately, travelling like an influencer transcends the need for jet-setting adventures and lucrative sponsorships; it's about giving yourself the permission to pause, to curate your own experiences, and to find inspiration in your surroundings.

It's recognising your worthiness for joy and beauty, even in the smallest doses, and remembering to honour your life's narrative—not for the sake of garnering likes but as a celebration of your joy.

So, the next time you experience that familiar pang of envy while viewing someone’s picturesque city break, consider planning your own version. The world is waiting for you to craft your unique story.

BUSINESS REPORT