The trend of getting tattoos while traveling, known as “tattourism,” is on the rise among jetsetters. Data from Hostel World shows that over 40% of adult vacationers under the age of 35 have gotten a tattoo while traveling, with half of those individuals specifically going abroad for that purpose. Tattoo artists like Rose Hardy from California and Dr. Lakra in Oaxaca, Mexico, have noted that a significant portion of their clientele travel from other cities or even countries to get inked by them.
People are choosing to commemorate their travels with tattoos as a more permanent and meaningful keepsake compared to traditional travel trinkets. Cristina Ferucci and her friends got matching tattoos to mark a trip to London that was postponed due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Sean Flynn, an editor from Jersey City, got a tattoo in Barcelona while on vacation, emphasizing the personal significance and joy he derives from his tattoos as opposed to how others may perceive them.
Hotels in New York City are embracing the body art trend by offering in-house tattoo parlors or hosting resident tattoo artists. The Moxy Hotels have recruited tattoo artist Jonathan “JonBoy” Valena as a resident at their Times Square location, while the Untitled Hotel has opened the city’s first permanent in-hotel tattoo studio called Unscripted Ink. The trend extends beyond hotels, with cruise ships like Virgin Voyages offering tattoo shops on board for passengers to get inked in international waters.
Keepsake ink has become a popular trend at various events and celebrations, with flash tattoos being offered as souvenirs. Couples are now offering guests the chance to get tattooed at their weddings, with viral videos on TikTok showcasing the practice. Pop-up events in New York City provide patrons with the opportunity to get free flash tattoos, featuring small pieces of art that are pre-drawn. Companies like That Cheese Plate and Omsom have used flash tattoos to mark significant anniversaries, viewing them as a fun and cute way to express self-expression and commemorate memories.
Overall, tattourism and keepsake ink are part of a larger movement towards permanent souvenirs and self-expression through body art. People are increasingly choosing tattoos as a meaningful and personal way to commemorate their travels and significant life events. The trend has been embraced by various businesses, including hotels, cruise ships, and event organizers, who see it as a unique and creative way to enhance the overall experience for their customers and guests. As tattoos become more mainstream and accepted, the practice of getting inked as a keepsake or souvenir is likely to continue growing in popularity.
