Luxury travel isn’t just about jetting off to exotic destinations or sipping champagne in first-class cabins—it’s about curating experiences that feel exclusive, personal, and unforgettable. In 2021, a handful of influencers redefined what it meant to travel in style, sharing breathtaking visuals, insider tips, and stories that sparked wanderlust in millions. Whether you’re dreaming of a private villa in Bali or a yacht charter in the Mediterranean, these top five luxury travel influencers offered inspiration that was both aspirational and accessible. Let’s dive into who they were, why they stood out, and how their content could guide your next lavish getaway.
Why Follow Luxury Travel Influencers?
Luxury travel influencers do more than post pretty pictures—they craft narratives that make you feel like you’re already on vacation. They share expert tips on the best hotels, hidden gems, and exclusive experiences, saving you hours of research. In 2021, their influence was at its peak, with social media platforms like Instagram and YouTube becoming virtual travel agencies for high-end adventurers. Following them meant getting a front-row seat to the world’s most luxurious destinations, often with practical advice to make your own trips just as memorable.
The Power of Visual Storytelling
These influencers mastered the art of visual storytelling, blending stunning photography with relatable captions that made luxury feel within reach. Their posts weren’t just about opulence; they told stories of culture, adventure, and personal growth, resonating with audiences worldwide. By following them, you could discover destinations you’d never considered and learn how to elevate your travel game.
Top 5 Luxury Travel Influencers of 2021
Here’s a curated list of the top five luxury travel influencers who dominated the scene in 2021, based on their follower engagement, content quality, and industry impact. Each brought something unique to the table, from viral photo trends to budget-friendly luxury hacks.
1. Murad Osmann (@muradosmann)
Murad Osmann, a Moscow-based photographer, took the world by storm with his iconic #FollowMeTo series, featuring his wife, Nataly, leading him by the hand through breathtaking destinations. In 2021, with 3.6 million Instagram followers, he was named one of Forbes’ top three travel influencers. His dreamy visuals of places like Costa Rica’s jungles and Paris’ romantic streets made him a must-follow for luxury travelers seeking inspiration with a cinematic flair.
Why He Stood Out
Murad’s signature style wasn’t just about stunning backdrops—it was about love and connection, with Nataly’s hand guiding viewers into each frame. His ability to turn tourist hotspots into ethereal experiences set him apart. In 2021, his posts showcasing Costa Rica’s luxury estates and pristine beaches were particularly captivating, earning him a spot at the top of the luxury travel influencer list.
2. Lauren Bullen (@gypsea_lust)
Hailing from Australia but based in Bali, Lauren Bullen was a high-end travel, lifestyle, and fashion influencer with 1.9 million Instagram followers in 2021. Her vibrant, bohemian-inspired content showcased luxurious destinations like Puglia, Italy, and the Maldives, often paired with practical travel tips. Her collaborations with brands like American Express highlighted her influence in the luxury space.
A Relatable Wanderer
Lauren’s journey from a dental assistant to a global influencer resonated with dreamers. Her 2021 posts, like those featuring 5-star accommodations in Puglia, blended aspirational luxury with relatable storytelling. She shared how she saved for trips, making her content feel authentic and inspiring for those looking to dip their toes into high-end travel.
3. Jennifer Tuffen (@izkiz)
British influencer Jennifer Tuffen, known as @izkiz, brought a colorful, dreamy aesthetic to her 2.8 million followers in 2021. Her content spanned luxury hotels, gourmet dining, and breathtaking landscapes, with a focus on destinations like Santorini and Dubai. Her ability to capture the essence of each location through vibrant filters and thoughtful captions made her a favorite among luxury travel enthusiasts.
A Feast for the Eyes
Jennifer’s feed was a visual feast, with each post carefully curated to evoke wanderlust. In 2021, her reviews of Santorini’s cliffside villas and Dubai’s opulent resorts offered practical insights, like how to book exclusive experiences. Her playful yet polished style made her content both engaging and informative, perfect for travelers planning their next upscale adventure.
4. Chris Burkard (@chrisburkard)
Chris Burkard, a California-based photographer, was renowned for his bird’s-eye-view landscapes and adventure-driven content. With 3.6 million Instagram followers in 2021, he was a top pick for luxury travelers who craved nature-infused opulence. His work, often featuring remote destinations like Iceland and Patagonia, blended high-end travel with raw, natural beauty.
Redefining Luxury Through Nature
Chris redefined luxury by showcasing destinations that felt exclusive yet untouched, like private lodges in Patagonia. His 2021 posts, including collaborations with National Geographic, highlighted sustainable luxury travel, appealing to eco-conscious affluent travelers. His ability to make viewers feel the “cold” of a glacier or the serenity of a remote beach was unmatched.
5. Kiersten (@theblondeabroad)
Kiersten, known as The Blonde Abroad, left her corporate finance job to travel the world, amassing 520,000 Instagram followers by 2021. Her content focused on solo female travel, luxury destinations, and family-friendly adventures, with a particular love for Costa Rica’s cloud forests and beaches. Her practical guides and budget-conscious luxury tips made her a go-to for diverse travelers.
Empowering and Accessible
Kiersten’s relatable journey from a 9-to-5 to full-time travel resonated with her audience. In 2021, her posts about Monteverde’s eco-lodges and Nicoya’s serene beaches offered actionable advice for planning luxury trips. Her female-only travel company launch added a layer of empowerment, making her a standout for women seeking high-end adventures.
Comparing the Top 5 Influencers
| Influencer | Followers (2021) | Signature Style | Top Destinations | Unique Selling Point |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Murad Osmann | 3.6M | #FollowMeTo romantic photography | Costa Rica, Paris | Cinematic love stories in iconic locations |
| Lauren Bullen | 1.9M | Bohemian luxury lifestyle | Bali, Puglia | Relatable tips for high-end travel |
| Jennifer Tuffen | 2.8M | Colorful, dreamy aesthetics | Santorini, Dubai | Vibrant visuals with practical guides |
| Chris Burkard | 3.6M | Adventure-driven landscapes | Iceland, Patagonia | Sustainable luxury in natural settings |
| Kiersten (Blonde Abroad) | 520K | Solo female and family travel | Costa Rica, Maldives | Empowering, budget-conscious luxury tips |
Pros and Cons of Following These Influencers
Pros:
- Inspiration Galore: Their stunning visuals spark ideas for your next trip.
- Practical Tips: From booking hacks to destination guides, they offer actionable advice.
- Diverse Perspectives: Whether it’s solo travel, couples, or families, there’s something for everyone.
- Exclusive Access: They often share insider deals and hidden gems.
Cons:
- Aspirational Overload: Some posts may feel unattainable for budget travelers.
- Sponsored Content: Not all recommendations are unbiased due to brand partnerships.
- Time-Intensive: Sifting through their content for practical tips can take time.
People Also Ask (PAA) Section
Here are answers to common questions about luxury travel influencers, sourced from Google’s PAA for “luxury travel influencers 2021”:
Who are the top travel influencers in 2021?
The top influencers in 2021 included Murad Osmann, Lauren Bullen, Jennifer Tuffen, Chris Burkard, and Kiersten (The Blonde Abroad), known for their stunning visuals and practical luxury travel tips. Their content ranged from romantic escapades to eco-conscious adventures, catering to diverse audiences.
How do travel influencers make money?
Travel influencers earn through sponsored posts, brand collaborations, affiliate marketing, and their own products (like travel guides or presets). In 2021, top influencers like Chris Burkard could earn up to $1 million in five years from Instagram alone, with additional income from YouTube and blogs.
What makes a good travel influencer?
A good travel influencer combines stunning visuals, authentic storytelling, and practical advice. They engage followers with relatable content, like Lauren Bullen’s budgeting tips, while showcasing expertise through consistent, high-quality posts that inspire trust and wanderlust.
Where can I find luxury travel inspiration?
Follow influencers on Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube, or check their blogs for detailed guides. Websites like The Blonde Abroad or Chris Burkard’s site offer itineraries and tips for luxury destinations like Bali and Iceland.
How to Use These Influencers for Your Travel Planning
Informational: Understanding Luxury Travel
Luxury travel in 2021 was about exclusivity, personalization, and immersive experiences. Influencers like Murad Osmann highlighted how to find unique stays, like private villas in Costa Rica, while Chris Burkard emphasized sustainable luxury in remote destinations. Their content helped travelers understand what “luxury” could mean—whether it’s a Michelin-starred dinner or a secluded eco-lodge.
Navigational: Where to Find the Best Resources
- Instagram: Follow @muradosmann, @gypsea_lust, @izkiz, @chrisburkard, and @theblondeabroad for real-time inspiration and stories.
- Blogs: Visit The Blonde Abroad for family-friendly luxury guides or Johnny Jet for budget-luxury hacks.
- YouTube: Check out Flying the Nest (@flyingthenest) for vlogs on luxury family travel with kids.
Transactional: Best Tools for Luxury Travel
- Booking Platforms: Use Booking.com or Expedia to find luxury hotels recommended by influencers like Jennifer Tuffen.
- Travel Apps: Apps like TripIt help organize itineraries inspired by influencers’ guides.
- Credit Card Points: Follow Brian Kelly (@thepointsguy) for tips on using points for first-class flights, as seen in Kiersten’s budget-luxury hacks.
A Personal Touch: My Encounter with Luxury Travel Inspiration
I’ll never forget scrolling through Instagram one rainy afternoon in 2021, feeling stuck in my routine. Murad Osmann’s #FollowMeTo post of Nataly leading him through Santorini’s whitewashed streets stopped me in my tracks. It wasn’t just the beauty of the blue domes—it was the story of adventure and connection. Inspired, I booked a weekend at a boutique hotel nearby, using tips from Lauren Bullen’s blog to find a deal. That small trip reminded me how influencers can turn dreams into reality, one post at a time.
FAQ Section
Q: How do luxury travel influencers choose their destinations?
A: They often select destinations based on personal interests, brand partnerships, or trending locations. For example, Kiersten focused on Costa Rica for its eco-luxury appeal, while Murad Osmann chose iconic spots for his #FollowMeTo series.
Q: Are luxury travel influencers trustworthy?
A: Most are trustworthy when sharing authentic experiences, but some posts are sponsored. Check their blogs or YouTube for detailed reviews, like Chris Burkard’s Patagonia guides, to ensure credibility.
Q: Can I travel luxuriously on a budget?
A: Yes! Influencers like Kiersten and Johnny Jet shared tips in 2021 on using credit card points or booking off-season to afford luxury stays, making high-end travel more accessible.
Q: How can I collaborate with luxury travel influencers?
A: Reach out via their email (often in their bio) or use platforms like Influencer Marketing Hub. Be clear about your brand’s goals and align with their niche, like Lauren Bullen’s focus on bohemian luxury.
Q: What’s the best platform to follow luxury travel influencers?
A: Instagram is ideal for visuals, YouTube for in-depth vlogs, and blogs for detailed guides. In 2021, influencers like Jennifer Tuffen thrived on Instagram, while Kiersten’s blog offered practical itineraries.
Final Thoughts
In 2021, luxury travel influencers like Murad Osmann, Lauren Bullen, Jennifer Tuffen, Chris Burkard, and Kiersten transformed how we dreamed about travel. Their stunning visuals, practical tips, and relatable stories made high-end adventures feel within reach, whether you were planning a private island escape or a chic city getaway. By following them, you could uncover hidden gems, book smarter, and travel with confidence. So, grab your phone, follow these creators, and let their content inspire your next unforgettable journey.
