Travel has always been about discovery, but in today’s digital world, that discovery doesn’t stop when the trip ends. More and more, people are logging in to share their favourite destinations, hidden spots, and personal stories with fellow travellers. The result? Online communities that feel like global guidebooks, full of authentic experiences rather than scripted itineraries

NMTBP looks at some of the standout platforms where explorers connect and inspire one another

Storytelling on the map: Findery

Findery, created by Flickr co-founder Caterina Fake, lets users leave “notes” pinned to a digital world map. These notes aren’t just reviews – they’re personal stories, tips, and sometimes even bits of local history. Whether it’s a tucked-away coffee shop in Copenhagen or a memory of hiking in Patagonia, Findery turns travel into a shared narrative

Curated travel collections: Everplaces

Everplaces takes a scrapbook-style approach to travel. Users collect favourite cafés, landmarks, or boutique hotels and organise them into shareable guides. Like a mix of Pinterest and a personal diary, it makes swapping ideas both practical and beautiful. While it’s less active today, its influence lives on in apps like Google Maps’ list feature

A community of explorers: Travellerspoint

One of the oldest online travel communities, Travellerspoint is part blog space, part travel guide. Members can post photos, write blogs, and even contribute to a collaborative, wiki-style guide that’s built entirely by travellers themselves. It’s the digital equivalent of swapping tips at a hostel common room

Connecting with locals: Touristlink

Touristlink goes beyond traveller-to-traveller interaction by also connecting people with locals. Members can share lists, swap reviews, and pick up recommendations straight from the people who know their hometowns best — giving visitors an authentic view that guidebooks rarely provide

A social travel iioneer: WAYN (Where Are You Now?)

Wayn was one of the first social networks designed for travellers. It allowed people to log where they had been, mark dream destinations, and meet others with the same travel passions. Though less active today, it paved the way for many newer platforms

The digital travel diary: Polarsteps

A favourite among today’s wanderers, Polarsteps tracks your journey automatically and plots it on a map. You can add photos and notes along the way, creating a visual diary to share with friends or turn into a keepsake. It’s the perfect blend of practical tracking and storytelling

Why these platforms matter

What makes these communities so compelling isn’t just the information they provide, but the voices behind it. They:

• Democratise advice – tips come from everyday travellers, not just professionals
• Highlight real experiences – sharing hidden gems, mistakes, and magical moments alike
• Build global connections – linking people who may never meet in person but share a love of discovery

The journey continues online

While some platforms have changed or faded, the spirit of sharing remains strong. From Instagram hashtags to Facebook travel groups and Google Maps lists, the idea remains the same: to share experiences and inspire others

So next time you set off on an adventure – whether it’s a weekend escape or a round-the-world journey – consider logging in, sharing a note, or building your own collection. Because travel is about more than where you go; it’s about the stories you leave behind for the next explorer