Many travel blogs are exactly the same.
Even if they don’t look the same, the ads are the same, the images are the same, and the ‘tips,’ which are meant to help them rank, are the same.
Many travel bloggers use the same WordPress theme on their website because they follow other travel bloggers’ advice. The websites look almost identical when the travel blogs also use the same affiliate links for Discover Cars, Viator, and other popular affiliates.
It’s one of the many reasons why I love Squarespace. You can create a website that is unique and customised.
Another quick rant: Most of the “best blog” lists cover the same travel blogs that have been around for over a decade. But there are many more travel blogs than just the top ones (I’m thinking about websites like Nomadic Matt or A Blonde Abroad), plus many of the newer sites look more elegant.
My background in digital content is for travel brands such as Tourism New Zealand. This means that I am more familiar with UX and SEO than many bloggers. This has helped me to get traffic and make a living with my travel blog.
It also means that I am more critical of many travel websites. I expect great content, an excellent UX, and creative design. Yes, it’s a big ask. There are a few travel blogs that do a fantastic job.
Who is the best candidate to meet this brief? These travel blogs all have beautiful designs and are easy to navigate.
1. Dusty Roads
Recently, I went hiking with a friend whom I met at a coliving area in Tenerife.
We discovered that we run our own travel websites on the way to the trailhead. We started a deep industry conversation and discussed our favorite travel blogs. Almost immediately, both of us mentioned Along Dusty Roads.
They are the best in the world when it comes to photography, website design, and depth of content.
This is a wonderful example of what a travel website should be doing: giving genuine advice and inspiration about travel.
2. The Common Wanderer
It is my favorite travel blog on the web because of its incredible photography and elegant design.
Mark and Mim make a good team. Together, they’ve built a beautiful travel website. They are so real to me, and I like that they share more personal stories with their travel guides.
The print and preset shop is equally impressive.
3. Petrina Darrah — a New Zealand travel blog
My travel blog has always been focused on beautiful design (yes, this is me nominating).
My site’s design does not necessarily improve search results, but it certainly enhances the user experience for anyone who visits. My readers tell me that my site is visually appealing.
The goal of my travel blog is for me to create a business that I am proud of. Having a beautiful design blog is one way of creating a strong personal brand.
4. Sommertage
Sommertage is the travel blog of Kathi and Romeo from Austria, “Free-spirited Wanderers and Independent Freelancers”.
Their blog is very visual, with stunning photos in a beautiful pastel color palette.
It’s also great that their site is free of advertisements (for now). The site looks and feels different when there are no ads.
Kathi and Romeo have stated that they are focusing on providing their honest opinions of places. And from what I’ve seen, they’ve done just that. Their New Zealand posts give me the impression that they are really focused on providing useful information. I can tell when someone hasn’t actually done the things they mention in their posts!
5. Petite Suitcase
Scarlett is the travel photographer behind Petite Suitcase. Her website has a lot of beautiful and dreamy photos taken in Italy.
Her writing is heartfelt and genuine. I like the way that she focuses on her adopted Italy.
Her blog is designed in a simple, straightforward way that puts her photos at the forefront.
6. illumination
Mel Legarda, the London-based content creator and blogger behind illumelation – a culture and slow travel blog – is a blogger.
Her photography is stunning, and her blog is a mix of informative posts (comparing eSIMs, itineraries) and personal stories.
Mel is a British Filipino blogger. I’m well aware that this list is mostly white. Mel’s view on travel in the Philippines is interesting.
On a separate note, I’d love to read more blogs by people of color or with diverse abilities. Travel blogging and travel writing can be a space dominated by white/straight/able-bodied men.
Feel free to share your favorites with me.
7. Art Distance
Hannah is an art historian, travel blogger, and writer based in London. She writes the stunning blog Art Distance.
Her travel blog is beautifully designed and shows that she has a great eye for art.
8. Wander Lush
Emily Lush is one of the most dedicated travel bloggers.
Her posts are extremely detailed and informative, and written with care and skill. Her photos are equally impressive.
Wander Lush is my favorite travel blog. It’s a wonderful example of a blog that was built with passion and originality.
She has a great deal of knowledge about Georgia, which she displays in her content.
9. 68 North
This is one of the best travel websites I’ve ever used.
Cody Duncan was my guide when I hiked for two weeks on the Lofoten islands in Norway. He offers detailed hiking guides and plenty of information about the Lofoten islands.
This is a great example of a travel blog that focuses on specialized destinations.
10. Laura the Explorer
Laura the Explorer, a travel blog with beautiful photography and detailed itineraries, is an international blog.
Laura uses image shapes and other features to add visual interest to her blog posts.
11. Not a Nomad Blog
Monica’s site is very clean and simple.
The blog is designed in a simple way that makes it easy for readers to digest the detailed information.
Monica is a unique case, however. She is a programmer and was able to code much of her site herself. This blog is a great example of how you don’t have to use WordPress to be successful. If you have quality content, you will attract the right audience.
