We are so lucky that we are able to afford to travel in this day and age. Believe it or not, there was a time when only a few affluent people would be able to indulge on such luxury. Now, thanks to the internet, the world has become a much smaller space, where everything has become more affordable.

There was also a time when smoking was allowed in airplane cabins, and people clapped whenever the pilot has executed a smooth landing. Here are other  ways travel has changed throughout the years.

Having a photo printed for your passport

Years ago, one of the requirements to get a passport was an actual printed photo – plain background, no huge smile, and no hair astray. Said photo would then be pasted onto your passport, where your details would also be placed – handwritten, no less.

Hong Kong was the place to be

Trips to Hong Kong have become quite common, but there was a time when this country was such a big-time destination. It was the top-of-mind for many Filipinos because it was quite near and relatively affordable than most destinations. Meanwhile, those who had a bit more cash to burn would have US on their list.

Booking through a travel agency and getting an actual ticket

These days, you could book a flight and print a copy in the comforts of your own home wearing your pajamas – a far cry from when the only choice you had was to go to a travel agency, queue, then labor over finding the ideal date and time especially if you had connecting flights.

Exorbitant airfares and accommodation rates

Piso fares and similar promos were unheard of and Airbnb wasn’t a thing yet, so if you wanted to travel, you would have to shell out a huge amount of money for airfare and accommodations. Thus, traveling was limited only to a few.

Dressing up for the airport

Suits, leather shoes, and nice dresses – no, these weren’t outfits for a formal event, but the common airport #OOTD back in the day. The gentlemen would even have their briefcases, while the ladies would most likely don “stockings” as well. Definitely a far cry from the comfy, sometimes lazy airport outfits you see these days.

 Struggling to keep in touch

Upon landing in a different country, you’re expected to get in touch with your family right away to let them know you’ve arrived safe. But Viber and Facebook didn’t exist yet back then, so long-distance calls were the way to go. Often, that came with the challenge of adjusting to the time difference, getting through an operator, and unreliable phone lines.

Taking photos… and waiting for days before you actually see them

Sharing stories to a only chosen few

One of the perks of traveling is having so many stories to tell after each trip. But back then, you’d be limited to sharing your tales to only family and friends, to whom you could show that album filled with photos. These days, travel stories can be shared via Facebook, Instagram, or through blogs, not just to people close to you but even to strangers who stumble upon your page.

In what other ways has travel changed over the years? Share them with us below!