As a photographer myself, I’m well aware of how “image is everything” when it comes to making something look good, or selling an idea. Even being aware of that, I was still surprised to learn what I learned in this revealing article on CNN, called, “‘The sexy lady’ and other hotel photo tricks.” Read it here: http://bit.ly/gL17ic

How many times have you gone on an expensive vacation only to realize it is half of what you expected? Or, you tell yourself that it must be different just this one time, because it is an especially busy weekend, or spring break (somewhere!) And, because you are embarassed, when you get home you still write it up as an amazing experience as you brag about it to your friends?

That article was an eye-opener to me, and will certainly help me keep my eyes wide open as I search online for my next fantastical vacation. One way to get a more accurate “picture” of a place you plan to visit is to search online for photos from actual vacationers. Flickr is a good place to start.

And as always, happy trails!