Felix Tanaka

The idea that a single photo on a guide cover can standardize and dictate an entire first big trip is appealing because it suggests an inspiring simplicity in discovering complex destinations like the American Southwest.
However, even if the image served as an initial trigger and guided an initial idea, it doesn't capture all the research and detailed planning needed to truly discover lesser-known places.
Reducing such a rich trip to a single spark is like forgetting all the market runs, vegetable preparation, and cooking that make a good meal, even if it's the photo of the final dish that made your mouth water.
To visit The Wave, for example, a special permit and prior organization are often required; inspiration doesn't handle administrative logistics.

A photo of "The Wave" on a guide can spark an idea, that's true, but it doesn't magically standardize an entire trip to include lesser-known places.
It's the work of active research and preparation, like mine for a hotel in Alicante last summer, that allows you to get a head start and discover gems, not a simple cover image.
The reality on the ground is that only a well-crafted strategy helps you win the race against unforeseen events.
Otherwise, you're just following in the footsteps of other tourists.

You have correctly observed that a single photo cannot do everything. You need much more than just a visual to plan such a trip.

It's true that procedures take a long time, we don't have a minute to lose, especially with the processing delays that are increasing. Moreover, you really need to plan ahead for supporting documents, like recent ID photos, otherwise the entire application is rejected and you have to start over.

It is imperative that the source of inspiration be properly documented and verified. We must ensure that the approval process for destination selection does not rely on a mere impression but on verifiable data from an appropriate market study.

Age isn't the real problem here. Focusing on that forgets that even child passports require the same papers and can be refused for a photo. We need to solve the document issue for everyone.