Back in the day armchair travel was the way people could take a journey to far away places without leaving the comfort of their sofa- or break the bank. It was possible through these ancient art forms that have pages with writing – books. Well, these days it seems travel has become more interactive and visual through social media, especially the hot favourite, Instagram.
The first thing I do before heading away anywhere is sit down, get comfy and sift through Instagram in a memorised state. It is a wealth of travel information, not to mention a time sucker.
Through hashtags and geolocation, you can find amazing tips and otherwise missed locations that may not be in a Lonely Planet (these books still have a place in my heart). You get to see the city through a locals eyes and experience the authenticity of a place.
Before moving to New York, I couldn’t get enough of the city. Every photo I saw that had anything to do with the place had me in a spin. I would imagine my own life movie in the streets of New York, swept up in awe of it all.
But getting here isn’t all that easy, nor is an affordable feat. Before I could finally pick up and leave I had to use visual aids to live out my dreams.
Here are some of my favourite New York Instagrams that will have you in a euphoric state.
FOLLOW
@gmp3
New York photographer Gerry captures shots of amazing skylines that has me spending hours scrolling through his some 1700 photos for hours. You can’t do any of that with a filter kiddies. He has got mad skills.
@thenewyorkdaily
Not to be mistaken for the New York Daily News, I really identify with the photographs from thenewyorkdaily. They are everyday snaps around the city. They are raw and not ‘perfectly’ framed which is a welcomed alternative. This account is still growing everyday and while they don’t take “professional” photos, sometimes I connect more when I see the authentic side of New York streets.
@westvillagelife
Westvillagelife feeds my infatuation with one of the most sought-after neighborhoods in Manhattan. This is my go-to for suggestions for the best brunch, best picturesque street and local hangs. Instagram is just the first offering before a website launch that it looking to curate the lifestyle of the West Village.
@enderbaykal
Ender Baykal photographs New York and other cities on his travels exquisitely. He is also the creator of a #breathenewyork, a beautiful concept that highlights the empty streets of the always bustling streets of New York.
@newyorkcity
Liz Eswein secured one of the most sought after handles shortly after Instagram launched. As the name suggests she is dedicated to documenting New York City and has become an ‘gram entrepreneur. Her photos are clean and bright, and induce true love for this gorgeous city.
@nycfoodgals
Woah nelly! These gals know how to eat. These photos are gluttonous, mouth-watering and intense in the best way possible. This account will make you wish you never heard the word ‘diet’ or ‘gym’ again.
@infatuation
Ever get sick of the polite and boring restaurant reviews by food critics? Well I do and these guys get it. Starting off in New York, The Infatuation guys have quickly made a name for themselves after starting the app back in 2009. Here you will find good, honest to god truth about the various eating institutions from New York, Chicago, San Fran and more, without any of that ‘professional’ schmooze.
@underground_nyc
Everyone’s got to have a little subway porn in their life. If you know any locals or are a local, you will know it is a bitter sweet relationship with the underground. But Aaron Pegg knows how to show the more ‘peaceful’ side of the New York people mover. I have to say some of the shots scattered throughout are not my style, but there are some great unique perspectives in there.
@nyonair
The best photos are always from above! NYonAir is a global aerial content company that produce beautiful shots from a team of photographers. Sounds like a pretty awesome gig! Where do I sign up? They have a helicopter, which is kiiiiinda cheating, but they take some of the most badass-est shots of the city you will find. I dare you to look at these photos and not want to jump on a chopper for a fly by (which they also offer).
@stephridhalgh
And of course, there is yours truly…
I love discovering new Instagrammers. Who is your favorite?
Thanks for sharing: it’s always nice to see who other people are following (or maybe that’s just because I’m nosey)!