Nurgül Büyükkalay is a Turkish travel influencer who shares her adventures and experiences through her social media channels. She often highlights hidden gems, local cultures, and unique travel tips, inspiring her followers to explore the world.
Join us as we delve into the fascinating stories behind her stunning work and discover how she’s inspiring others to explore the world.
Social channel: Instagram
Could you share some of your most memorable trips from 2024? What made them so special?
One of my most memorable trips this year was to Sweden. I headed to Abisko, Swedish Lapland to see the beauty of the Northern Lights. I have witnessed the incredible northern lights show and experienced the tranquil beauty of Sweden’s winter season, winter activities, Sami culture and Ice Hotel. Abisko National Park is a major draw, with opportunities to hunt for the elusive Northern Lights.
My visit to Mauritius Island was also memorable. I love visiting tropical islands where the weather is warm all year round and where I enjoy laying on a beach, coconut water in my hand. So many reasons why I loved the island: delicious food, magical sunsets, luxurious hotels, very rich history and culture, tropical greenery and beautiful sandy beaches. I loved to explore the natural e environments of the island; nature reserves and botanical gardens, as well as huge areas of tropical forest hiding magical waterfalls. Mauritius is a curious blend of different cultures. Wandering around the old spice shops and colonial buildings and also trying diverse food influences coming far and wide from India, China, Africa and France were really nice. And of course, the gorgeous beaches.
Moreover, my Vietnam trip made my year. Vietnam has become one of my favorite destinations in Southeast Asia and maybe in the world. I fell in love with the stunning landscapes, the friendly population, the vibrant culture, and the fresh and delicious food. The smell of fresh Vietnamese coffee is brewing at every street corner. I can’t stop thinking about this country and I am already dreaming of visiting again. I loved its culture and traditions, which are still an important part of the locals’ everyday life. What has also attracted me has been the friendliness. While walking around, everyone is smiling. We have joined the annual media familiarization trip of the 18th International Travel Expo Ho Chi Minh City (ITE HCMC 2024), which took place 3th-10th September 2024 in Ho Chi Minh City.
Your travel style seems quite diverse, from exploring nature to cultural experiences. What drives your curiosity and exploration in new destinations?
We can all agree that visiting new places is great fun. You get to learn about different cultures, try things you’ve never tried before, discover new cuisines, maybe even take in a few museums or art galleries. You’ll return home richer for the experience. Also, visiting new places is also a great way to keep your brain active.
Actually, we always say “different” people, culture, etc… However, what attracts me more is our “similarities”. Even if I travel to another part of the world, I realize that people around the world share more similarities than differences. And this is great!
As a social media influencer, which travel brands did you collaborate with in 2024?
I collaborate with some hotels and travel agencies in Turkey.
Do you have any tips for those who want to take beautiful travel photos like you?
I like to capture and reflect photos with my feelings. You need to have a sense of creativity as well as technical skills. Using natural light when possible, paying attention to composition techniques, focusing on details, editing your image by adjusting brightness, contrast, and color, and telling a story with your photos are the important things in travel photography.
In your opinion, what were the most prominent travel trends in 2024?
There is more personalization, sustainability, deep cultural connection and the preservation of natural beauty in the travel trends in 2024. Travelers are more sensitive for their environmental footprint. Slow travel movement is another trend of this year. We more recognize the value of slowing down experiences. Digital nomads are also increasing. Experiencing traveling with a local flavor is one of the most popular trends. Immersing ourselves in the culture by experiencing local traditions, tasting regional cuisine and participating in everyday life allow for a connection that goes far beyond typical tourism.
Do you have any travel plans lined up for 2025?
I would like to visit Iceland and maybe catch the northern lights again this year. I am planning to travel to the USA and have a road trip there. I want to visit Japan during the cherry blossom season. I also wish that I can visit Vietnam to discover more about this beautiful country.
Are you planning to expand your content creation to platforms beyond Instagram?
I have a blog and I am planning to work more on my blog.
Besides traveling, what are some of your other hobbies and interests?
I am also an academician at a university in my country. I deal with international projects, and I like writing projects which young university students benefit from and have a chance to travel the world besides increasing their educational skills. I play tennis and golf.
Finally, is there any message you’d like to share with the readers of Wanderlust Tips?
I would like to share a quote from Ibn Battuta “Traveling, it leaves you speechless, then turns you into a storyteller.” So we have a beautiful world to discover.
We wish you a new year filled with energy and exciting adventures! We hope your insights will inspire young travel enthusiasts and aspiring influencers.