News

In an age where social media is flooded with perfectly curated travel content, it’s easy to feel like luxurious getaways are reserved for influencers with brand deals and unlimited time off. From sun-drenched infinity pools in Santorini to rooftop breakfasts in Bangkok, the illusion of constant travel can feel both aspirational and frustrating. But what if you could take that same energy and bring it into your own reality, even if just for a night?

The truth is you don’t need 100,000 followers or a suitcase full of designer clothes to travel like an influencer. What most people crave when they scroll through dreamy vacation posts isn’t just the destination, it’s the feeling. The sense of freedom. Recent data from Expedia’s 2025 Travel Trends Report shows that over 62% of travellers are now prioritising short, restorative trips over long, expensive vacations. These "micro-cations" (short getaways of one to three nights) have become the preferred escape for professionals in high-pressure jobs looking to recharge without draining their annual leave. Whether it’s a night in a chic local hotel or a weekend retreat just an hour outside the city, people are rediscovering the power of brief but meaningful breaks.

An example of this would be a stay at Radisson OR Tambo, one that perfectly captures a blend of accessible luxury and mental well-being. Conveniently located near Johannesburg’s international airport, it offers more than just a place to sleep, it’s a sanctuary designed for rest and renewal. From the serene outdoor pool and tranquil spa treatments to quiet, modern rooms with blackout curtains and plush bedding, every detail is crafted to support relaxation.

There’s also a growing link between short form travel and mental well-being. One study showed, people who take frequent mini getaways report 30% lower stress levels than those who wait for one or two big holidays a year. Even a single night away from your usual surroundings can interrupt stress cycles, calm the nervous system, and provide mental clarity.

And then, there’s the creative boost. Influencers are often praised for their ability to “find the magic” in a location, whether that’s framing a coffee cup just right, capturing golden hour light, or styling an outfit to match a backdrop. But this isn’t exclusive to influencers. In fact, more people are now using travel as a form of personal expression, turning short trips into opportunities to create their own beautiful content. Whether you're snapping photos of a well-plated breakfast, filming a GRWM (get ready with me) in a boutique hotel, or journaling with a skyline view, you're not just taking a break, you're engaging with your surroundings in a way that prioritises joy, beauty, and presence.

“In today’s fast-paced world, we all need moments that feel cinematic, not just on screen, but in real life. 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 mean faraway places or extravagant budgets, it’s about creating meaningful experiences that recharge the mind and inspire the soul and yes, make for beautiful content too,” says Setshego Ledwaba, Marketing & Communications Manager, Radisson OR Tambo.

Platforms like Instagram and TikTok are increasingly filled with content that highlights accessible luxury: local boutique stays, hidden gem restaurants, and experiences that feel elevated without being out of reach. A night at a well-designed hotel 30 minutes from home, paired with a bubble bath, a good book, and room service? That’s luxury.

Travelling like an influencer isn’t really about jet-setting or sponsorships, it’s about permission. Giving yourself permission to pause, to curate your experience, to feel inspired by your surroundings. It’s about recognising that you deserve beauty, even in small doses. And it’s about remembering that your life is just as worthy of being captured and shared, not for likes or validation, but as a celebration of your own joy.

Next time you feel that familiar twinge of envy while strolling through someone's city break, consider planning your own version.