Long before mass tourism took hold, a vacation abroad was the preserve of the wealthy and the privileged. Even a holiday at home was seen as an extravagance few could afford. Marketing an overseas travel destination was therefore aimed at those with money to spend, and the advertising created to promote a place, service, or hotel reflected this exclusive segment of society. The result was the golden age of the travel poster, beautiful and evocative banners, placards, and even luggage labels that reflected not only the appeal of the destination, but period fashion trends too.
Browse the gallery and draw inspiration from the art of travel created in a bygone age.