Traveling the world with a camera in one hand and a concert ticket in the other has become my favorite hobby over the years. As a music enthusiast and photographer, I’ve found a unique way to blend my passions. My travel plans? They often revolve around where my favorite bands are playing next.
I’ve been asked several times if I travel just to go to concerts. Well, no. But it’s a big part of how I choose where I’m going next. Over the past several years, my passport has collected stamps and my cars miles with numerous trips each year (barring the pandemic pause).
Unlike the typical summer tourist chasing perfect weather and blooming landscapes, I find joy in traveling any time of the year. I’m not a person who needs to travel during June to have all of the flowers blooming and the hundreds of thousands of extra tourists around. I’m a big fan of traveling during the winter, which is typically the off-season for most places. This flexibility lets me see the world in its many shades, not just when it’s dressed up for the peak season crowds. I’ve discovered that quieter times often allow for a more authentic and intimate exploration of new places.
My travel strategy involves a blend of careful planning and spontaneity. I keep an eye on the tour schedules of bands I love and see if they align with the destinations on my list. This has led me to unexpected places, turning each trip into an adventure filled with music and discovery. For me, it’s about the thrill of seeing a favorite band in a new city and soaking in the unique vibe of each locale.
The process requires a fair bit of planning. Ensuring ticket availability, aligning flight schedules, and managing accommodation – it’s all part of the game. Not every plan goes smoothly, but sometimes the unexpected turns lead to the best experiences.
A memorable and recent example of this was when I planned to follow The Cure across Southern Europe. The tickets fell through to my disappointment, but soon after, Ville Valo (former frontman of HIM from Finland) announced his solo tour. For his shows, I ended up in two cities in Poland that were on my ‘someday’ list, and revisiting one of my favorite cities, Prague. These detours often lead to the most unforgettable experiences and the occasional terrifying Uber ride, but more on that another time.
I had planned on staying in Europe a little longer, so I wondered – is anything else going on? After a few days, I saw that the Pixies had announced their tour and their first stop was in Stockholm. Having missed out on Sweden during the pandemic, it felt like the stars aligned. My trip concluded with a fusion of iconic concerts, new city explorations, and a wealth of unforgettable moments.
A bonus for concert photographers is the opportunity to capture unique venues. From the eclectic ambiance of Prague’s Lucerna Music Bar to the historic charm of Stockholm’s Cirkus, a former circus building, these places add an extra layer of excitement and visual appeal to the trip.
I always suggest to fellow travelers to try adding a concert or a local event into their trip. It could be anything – a play, a sports game, or a festival. It adds an extra layer of fun and helps you connect with the place in a different way. It’s not just about seeing a new place; it’s about experiencing it. It’s a way to connect with locals, enjoy live entertainment, and create memories that are as vivid as the photos you take home.
For me, it’s a formula that never disappoints. It’s a journey of discovery, excitement, and the joy of experiencing the world through both music and travel.