Nov 2024 - Present

Nov 2024 - Present

Vibe Voyage

Vibe Voyage

Vibe Voyage

Vibe Voyage

Role: UI/UX & Product Designer

"How might we design an intuitive app that centralizes travel recommendations, authentic reviews, and traveler connections, thereby empowering users to explore confidently and create memorable journeys?"

Travelers are in need of a centralized platform to navigate the complexities of discovering authentic experiences, including finding reliable restaurants, accommodations, attractions, and local insights. Current solutions involve juggling multiple apps, blogs, and reviews, which often leads to information overload and missed opportunities.

"How might we design an intuitive app that centralizes travel recommendations, authentic reviews, and traveler connections, thereby empowering users to explore confidently and create memorable journeys?"

Travelers are in need of a centralized platform to navigate the complexities of discovering authentic experiences, including finding reliable restaurants, accommodations, attractions, and local insights. Current solutions involve juggling multiple apps, blogs, and reviews, which often leads to information overload and missed opportunities.

Travelers are in need of a centralized platform to navigate the complexities of discovering authentic experiences, including finding reliable restaurants, accommodations, attractions, and local insights. Current solutions involve juggling multiple apps, blogs, and reviews, which often leads to information overload and missed opportunities.

"How might we design an intuitive app that centralizes travel recommendations, authentic reviews, and traveler connections, thereby empowering users to explore confidently and create memorable journeys?"

Travelers are in need of a centralized platform to navigate the complexities of discovering authentic experiences, including finding reliable restaurants, accommodations, attractions, and local insights. Current solutions involve juggling multiple apps, blogs, and reviews, which often leads to information overload and missed opportunities.

"How might we design an intuitive app that centralizes travel recommendations, authentic reviews, and traveler connections, thereby empowering users to explore confidently and create memorable journeys?"

Project Background &
Personal Journey

As a travel photographer, I have spent years capturing the essence of cities, landscapes, and hidden corners, yet discovering authentic experiences beyond typical tourist spots has always been a challenge. Planning trips often meant juggling multiple apps and sifting through countless reviews, but the nuances that make a place truly memorable were easy to miss. Vibe Voyage was born from this experience, created to make exploration seamless personal, and meaningful.


Sharing my travels through photography naturally connected me with a community of fellow explorers. Over time, I noticed recurring questions from peers and followers about where to eat, which places are worth visiting, and under-appreciated spots to explore. These interactions revealed a gap in the travel experience, showing that while information exists, it is scattered, impersonal, and often overwhelming.


Vibe Voyage brings real reviews, personalized recommendations, and traveler networking together in one platform. The app reflects my belief that every journey is a story waiting to be discovered, shared, and remembered. It simplifies exploration, fosters connections, and inspires travelers to experience the world with curiosity and authenticity.

As a travel photographer, I have spent years capturing the essence of cities, landscapes, and hidden corners, yet discovering authentic experiences beyond typical tourist spots has always been a challenge. Planning trips often meant juggling multiple apps and sifting through countless reviews, but the nuances that make a place truly memorable were easy to miss. Vibe Voyage was born from this experience, created to make exploration seamless personal, and meaningful.


Sharing my travels through photography naturally connected me with a community of fellow explorers. Over time, I noticed recurring questions from peers and followers about where to eat, which places are worth visiting, and under-appreciated spots to explore. These interactions revealed a gap in the travel experience, showing that while information exists, it is scattered, impersonal, and often overwhelming.


Vibe Voyage brings real reviews, personalized recommendations, and traveler networking together in one platform. The app reflects my belief that every journey is a story waiting to be discovered, shared, and remembered. It simplifies exploration, fosters connections, and inspires travelers to experience the world with curiosity and authenticity.

As a travel photographer, I have spent years capturing the essence of cities, landscapes, and hidden corners, yet discovering authentic experiences beyond typical tourist spots has always been a challenge. Planning trips often meant juggling multiple apps and sifting through countless reviews, but the nuances that make a place truly memorable were easy to miss. Vibe Voyage was born from this experience, created to make exploration seamless personal, and meaningful.


Sharing my travels through photography naturally connected me with a community of fellow explorers. Over time, I noticed recurring questions from peers and followers about where to eat, which places are worth visiting, and under-appreciated spots to explore. These interactions revealed a gap in the travel experience, showing that while information exists, it is scattered, impersonal, and often overwhelming.


Vibe Voyage brings real reviews, personalized recommendations, and traveler networking together in one platform. The app reflects my belief that every journey is a story waiting to be discovered, shared, and remembered. It simplifies exploration, fosters connections, and inspires travelers to experience the world with curiosity and authenticity.

As a travel photographer, I have spent years capturing the essence of cities, landscapes, and hidden corners, yet discovering authentic experiences beyond typical tourist spots has always been a challenge. Planning trips often meant juggling multiple apps and sifting through countless reviews, but the nuances that make a place truly memorable were easy to miss. Vibe Voyage was born from this experience, created to make exploration seamless personal, and meaningful.


Sharing my travels through photography naturally connected me with a community of fellow explorers. Over time, I noticed recurring questions from peers and followers about where to eat, which places are worth visiting, and under-appreciated spots to explore. These interactions revealed a gap in the travel experience, showing that while information exists, it is scattered, impersonal, and often overwhelming.


Vibe Voyage brings real reviews, personalized recommendations, and traveler networking together in one platform. The app reflects my belief that every journey is a story waiting to be discovered, shared, and remembered. It simplifies exploration, fosters connections, and inspires travelers to experience the world with curiosity and authenticity.

Project Background & Personal Journey

Project Background & Personal Journey

Project Background & Personal Journey

EXPLORE & EXPERIENCE

Locate top restaurants, attractions, and stays in a click.

Connect with locals and travelers and

experience a place at its truest.

Connect with locals and travelers and

experience a place at its truest.

EXPLORE & EXPERIENCE

Locate top restaurants, attractions, and stays in a click.

Connect with locals and travelers and

experience a place at its truest.

Connect with locals and travelers and

experience a place at its truest.

EXPLORE & EXPERIENCE

Locate top restaurants, attractions, and stays in a click.

Connect with locals and travelers and

experience a place at its truest.

Connect with locals and travelers and

experience a place at its truest.

EXPLORE & EXPERIENCE

Locate top restaurants, attractions, and stays in a click.

Connect with locals and travelers and

experience a place at its truest.

EXPLORE & EXPERIENCE

Locate top restaurants, attractions, and stays in a click.

Connect with locals and travelers and

experience a place at its truest.

No singular platform exists that consolidates authentic recommendations, local insights, and traveler experiences into one seamless space.

Switching between multiple apps, reading blogs, and watching travel vlogs leads to inefficiencies and often results in missed opportunities

to explore a place meaningfully.


Current travel apps largely focus on ratings and reviews but fail to provide personalized, location-based suggestions or a community for

interaction, leaving travelers without trusted guidance or connections with those who know a place best.


Discovering hidden or under-appreciated spots remains a challenge, as most resources highlight mainstream tourist attractions, depriving

travelers of authentic experiences that make each destination unique.


There is a clear absence of a platform that integrates real reviews, personalized suggestions, and direct interactions with both locals and

experienced travelers, which is essential for a richer, more immersive travel experience.

Travelers today face an overwhelming amount of scattered information when planning trips, from restaurants

and accommodations to attractions and local experiences. This fragmentation makes it difficult to gain a true

sense of a destination, leaving many experiences generic or uninspired.

Travelers today face an overwhelming amount of scattered information when planning

trips, from restaurants and accommodations to attractions and local experiences.

This fragmentation makes it difficult to gain a true sense of a destination, leaving many

experiences generic or uninspired.

No singular platform exists that consolidates authentic recommendations, local insights, and traveler

experiences into one seamless space. Switching between multiple apps, reading blogs, and watching

travel vlogs leads to inefficiencies and often results in missed opportunities to explore a place meaningfully.


Current travel apps largely focus on ratings and reviews but fail to provide personalized, location-based

suggestions or a community for interaction, leaving travelers without trusted guidance or connections

with those who know a place best.


Discovering hidden or under-appreciated spots remains a challenge, as most resources highlight mainstream

tourist attractions, depriving travelers of authentic experiences that make each destination unique.


There is a clear absence of a platform that integrates real reviews, personalized suggestions, and direct

interactions with both locals and experienced travelers, which is essential for a richer,

more immersive travel experience.

PROBLEM

No singular platform exists that consolidates authentic recommendations, local insights, and

traveler experiences into one seamless space. Switching between multiple apps, reading

blogs, and watching travel vlogs leads to inefficiencies and often results in missed opportunities

to explore a place meaningfully.


Current travel apps largely focus on ratings and reviews but fail to provide personalized,

location-based suggestions or a community for interaction, leaving travelers without trusted

guidance or connections with those who know a place best.


Discovering hidden or under-appreciated spots remains a challenge, as most resources

highlight mainstream tourist attractions, depriving travelers of authentic experiences that

make each destination unique.


There is a clear absence of a platform that integrates real reviews, personalized suggestions,

and direct interactions with both locals and experienced travelers, which is essential for a richer,

more immersive travel experience.

Travelers today face an overwhelming amount of scattered information when

planning trips, from restaurants and accommodations to attractions and local

experiences. This fragmentation makes it difficult to gain a true sense of a

destination, leaving many experiences generic or uninspired.

No singular platform exists that consolidates authentic recommendations, local insights, and traveler experiences into one seamless space.

Switching between multiple apps, reading blogs, and watching travel vlogs leads to inefficiencies and often results in missed opportunities

to explore a place meaningfully.


Current travel apps largely focus on ratings and reviews but fail to provide personalized, location-based suggestions or a community for

interaction, leaving travelers without trusted guidance or connections with those who know a place best.


Discovering hidden or under-appreciated spots remains a challenge, as most resources highlight mainstream tourist attractions, depriving

travelers of authentic experiences that make each destination unique.


There is a clear absence of a platform that integrates real reviews, personalized suggestions, and direct interactions with both locals and

experienced travelers, which is essential for a richer, more immersive travel experience.

Travelers today face an overwhelming amount of scattered information when planning trips, from restaurants

and accommodations to attractions and local experiences. This fragmentation makes it difficult to gain a true

sense of a destination, leaving many experiences generic or uninspired.

No singular platform exists that consolidates authentic recommendations, local insights, and traveler

experiences into one seamless space. Switching between multiple apps, reading blogs, and watching

travel vlogs leads to inefficiencies and often results in missed opportunities to explore a place meaningfully.


Current travel apps largely focus on ratings and reviews but fail to provide personalized, location-based

suggestions or a community for interaction, leaving travelers without trusted guidance or connections

with those who know a place best.


Discovering hidden or under-appreciated spots remains a challenge, as most resources highlight mainstream

tourist attractions, depriving travelers of authentic experiences that make each destination unique.


There is a clear absence of a platform that integrates real reviews, personalized suggestions, and direct

interactions with both locals and experienced travelers, which is essential for a richer,

more immersive travel experience.

PROBLEM

No singular platform exists that consolidates authentic recommendations, local insights, and

traveler experiences into one seamless space. Switching between multiple apps, reading

blogs, and watching travel vlogs leads to inefficiencies and often results in missed opportunities

to explore a place meaningfully.


Current travel apps largely focus on ratings and reviews but fail to provide personalized,

location-based suggestions or a community for interaction, leaving travelers without trusted

guidance or connections with those who know a place best.


Discovering hidden or under-appreciated spots remains a challenge, as most resources

highlight mainstream tourist attractions, depriving travelers of authentic experiences that

make each destination unique.


There is a clear absence of a platform that integrates real reviews, personalized suggestions,

and direct interactions with both locals and experienced travelers, which is essential for a richer,

more immersive travel experience.

Travelers today face an overwhelming amount of scattered information when

planning trips, from restaurants and accommodations to attractions and local

experiences. This fragmentation makes it difficult to gain a true sense of a

destination, leaving many experiences generic or uninspired.

PROBLEM

No singular platform exists that consolidates authentic

recommendations, local insights, and traveler experiences

into one seamless space. Switching between multiple apps,

reading blogs, and watching travel vlogs leads to

inefficiencies and often results in missed opportunities to

explore a place meaningfully.


Current travel apps largely focus on ratings and reviews but

fail to provide personalized, location-based suggestions or

a community for interaction, leaving travelers without trusted

guidance or connections with those who know a place best.


Discovering hidden or under-appreciated spots remains a

challenge, as most resources highlight mainstream tourist

attractions, depriving travelers of authentic experiences

that make each destination unique.


There is a clear absence of a platform that integrates real

reviews, personalized suggestions, and direct interactions

with both locals and experienced travelers, which is

essential for a richer, more immersive travel experience.

Travelers today face an overwhelming amount of

scattered information when planning trips, from

restaurants and accommodations to attractions

and local experiences. This fragmentation makes

it difficult to gain a true sense of a destination,

leaving many experiences generic or uninspired.

Research: Competitive & SWOT Analyses

MakeMyTrip

Goibibo

MakeMyTrip leads India’s online travel space with a

comprehensive platform for travel and holiday packages.

Its app offers easy booking and a wide range of travel options,

though the experience can feel cluttered, the company

continues to expand partnerships, aiming to provide a

one-stop solution for all travel needs.

Goibibo simplifies travel planning with a fast, intuitive app

for flights, hotels, and bus bookings, backed by competitive

prices. While the platform is strong on transactions, it offers

limited personalized recommendations or community

engagement. Goibibo is focusing on exploring innovative

features to enhance user experience and traveler connectivity.

Research: Competitive & SWOT Analyses

MakeMyTrip

MakeMyTrip leads India’s online travel space with a comprehensive platform for travel

and holiday packages. Its app offers easy booking and a wide range of travel options,

though the experience can feel cluttered, the company continues to expand partnerships,

aiming to provide a one-stop solution for all travel needs.

Goibibo

Goibibo simplifies travel planning with a fast, intuitive app for flights, hotels, and bus bookings,

backed by competitive prices. While the platform is strong on transactions, it offers limited

personalized recommendations or community engagement. Goibibo is focusing on exploring

innovative features to enhance user experience and traveler connectivity.

Research: Competitive & SWOT Analyses

MakeMyTrip

MakeMyTrip leads India’s online travel space with a comprehensive platform for travel and holiday packages.

Its app offers easy booking and a wide range of travel options, though the experience can feel cluttered, the

company continues to expand partnerships, aiming to provide a one-stop solution for all travel needs.

Goibibo

Goibibo simplifies travel planning with a fast, intuitive app for flights, hotels, and bus bookings, backed by

competitive prices. While the platform is strong on transactions, it offers limited personalized recommendations

or community engagement. Goibibo is focusing on exploring innovative features to enhance user experience.

MakeMyTrip

Goibibo

Goibibo simplifies travel planning with a fast, intuitive app

for flights, hotels, and bus bookings, backed by competitive

prices. While the platform is strong on transactions, it offers

limited personalized recommendations or community

engagement. Goibibo is focusing on exploring innovative

features to enhance user experience.

MakeMyTrip leads India’s online travel space with a

comprehensive platform for travel and holiday packages.

Its app offers easy booking and a wide range of travel

options, though the experience can feel cluttered, the

company continues to expand partnerships,

aiming to provide a one-stop solution for all travel needs.

Research: Competitive
& SWOT Analyses

Leveraging my network across photography and travel communities on platforms like 500px and Instagram, I embarked on a mission to

gather insights directly from travelers and fellow photographers. I deployed surveys and conducted informal interviews to validate

assumptions and capture deep, qualitative feedback.


Using a combination of structured survey tools and personal interactions, including one-on-one chats and virtual discussions,

I collected nuanced feedback that was instrumental in shaping Vibe Voyage’s design and functionality. These insights ensured the app

addresses real traveler needs, from discovering authentic experiences to connecting with locals.

I prefaced the survey with questions related to travelers’ experiences in

planning trips and discovering authentic local experiences. As the

survey reached a broad demographic, not limited to my photography

and travel communities, I wanted to ensure relevance. The feedback

highlighted a strong desire for reliable local recommendations,

personalized itineraries, and a platform that connects travelers with

both locals and fellow explorers.


Interestingly, despite frequent engagement on platforms like 500px

and Instagram, there was a noticeable demand for a more integrated,

app-based solution, indicating a clear opportunity for Vibe Voyage.

This insight, combined with the community’s input, suggested strong

potential for adoption and the need for a seamless, user-centered

platform that makes exploration effortless and meaningful.

User Surveys & Interviews

User Surveys & Interviews

Leveraging my network across photography and travel communities on platforms like 500px and Instagram,

I embarked on a mission to gather insights directly from travelers and fellow photographers. I deployed

surveys and conducted informal interviews to validate assumptions and capture deep, qualitative feedback.


Using a combination of structured survey tools and personal interactions, including one-on-one chats and

virtual discussions, I collected nuanced feedback that was instrumental in shaping Vibe Voyage’s design and

functionality. These insights ensured the app addresses real traveler needs, from discovering authentic

experiences to connecting with locals.

I prefaced the survey with questions related to travelers’

experiences in planning trips and discovering authentic local

experiences. As the survey reached a broad demographic, not

limited to my photography and travel communities, I wanted to

ensure relevance. The feedback highlighted a strong desire for

reliable local recommendations, personalized itineraries, and a

platform that connects travelers with both locals and explorers.


Interestingly, despite frequent engagement on platforms like

500px and Instagram, there was a noticeable demand for a

more integrated, app-based solution, indicating a clear

opportunity for Vibe Voyage. This insight, combined with the

community’s input, suggested strong potential for adoption

and the need for a seamless, user-centered platform that

makes exploration effortless and meaningful.

User Survey Takeaways

User Survey Takeaways

User Surveys & Interviews

Leveraging my network across photography and travel communities on platforms like 500px and

Instagram, I embarked on a mission to gather insights directly from travelers and fellow photographers.

I deployed surveys and conducted informal interviews to validate assumptions and capture deep,

qualitative feedback.


Using a combination of structured survey tools and personal interactions, including one-on-one chats

and virtual discussions, I collected nuanced feedback that was instrumental in shaping Vibe Voyage’s

design and functionality. These insights ensured the app addresses real traveler needs, from

discovering authentic experiences to connecting with locals.

I prefaced the survey with questions related to travelers’ experiences in planning trips and discovering

authentic local experiences. As the survey reached a broad demographic, not limited to my

photography and travel communities, I wanted to ensure relevance. The feedback highlighted a strong

desire for reliable local recommendations, personalized itineraries, and a platform that connects

travelers with both locals and explorers.


Interestingly, despite frequent engagement on platforms like 500px and Instagram, there was a

noticeable demand for a more integrated, app-based solution, indicating a clear opportunity for Vibe

Voyage. This insight, combined with the community’s input, suggested strong potential for adoption

and the need for a seamless, user-centered platform that makes exploration effortless and meaningful.

User Survey Takeaways

User Surveys & Interviews

User Survey Takeaways

Leveraging my network across photography and travel

communities on platforms like 500px and Instagram, I

embarked on a mission to gather insights directly from

travelers and fellow photographers. I deployed surveys and

conducted informal interviews to validate assumptions and

capture deep, qualitative feedback.


Using a combination of structured survey tools and personal

interactions, including one-on-one chats and virtual

discussions, I collected nuanced feedback that was

instrumental in shaping Vibe Voyage’s design and

functionality. These insights ensured the app addresses real

traveler needs, from discovering authentic experiences to

connecting with locals.

I prefaced the survey with questions related to travelers’

experiences in planning trips and discovering authentic local

experiences. As the survey reached a broad demographic,

not limited to my photography and travel communities, I

wanted to ensure relevance. The feedback highlighted a

strong desire for reliable local recommendations,

personalized itineraries, and a platform that connects

travelers with both locals and explorers.


Interestingly, despite frequent engagement on platforms like

500px and Instagram, there was a noticeable demand for a

more integrated, app-based solution, indicating a clear

opportunity for Vibe Voyage. This insight, combined with the

community’s input, suggested strong potential for adoption

and the need for a seamless, user-centered platform that

makes exploration effortless and meaningful.

Card Sorts & Affinity Mapping

Card Sorts & Affinity Mapping

Card Sorts & Affinity Mapping

After gathering survey and interview results, I moved into the engaging phases of card sorting and affinity mapping. This interactive

stage was particularly insightful, allowing me to step into the shoes of travelers and photographers, uncovering the underlying

motivations, frustrations, and desires that shape their journeys.


Through this process, I not only organized key app features and content but also mapped the emotional and practical pathways

users take when exploring new destinations, discovering authentic experiences, and connecting with locals and fellow travelers.

After gathering survey and interview results, I moved into the engaging phases of card sorting and affinity

mapping. This interactive stage was particularly insightful, allowing me to step into the shoes of travelers

and explorers, uncovering the underlying motivations, frustrations, and desires that shape their journeys.


Through this process, I not only organized key app features and content but also mapped the emotional and

practical pathways users take when exploring new destinations, discovering authentic experiences, and

connecting with locals and fellow travelers.

After gathering survey and interview results, I moved into the engaging phases of card sorting and

affinity mapping. This interactive stage was particularly insightful, allowing me to step into the

shoes of travelers and explorers, uncovering the underlying motivations, frustrations, and desires

that shape their journeys.


Through this process, I not only organized key app features and content but also mapped the

emotional and practical pathways users take when exploring new destinations, discovering

authentic experiences, and connecting with locals and fellow travelers.

Card Sorts & Affinity Mapping

After gathering survey and interview results, I moved into the

engaging phases of card sorting and affinity mapping. This

interactive stage was particularly insightful, allowing me to

step into the shoes of travelers and explorers, uncovering

the underlying motivations, frustrations, and desires that

shape their journeys.


Through this process, I not only organized key app features

and content but also mapped the emotional and practical

pathways users take when exploring new destinations,

discovering authentic experiences, and connecting with

locals and fellow travelers.

Meet the Users:
Personas, Task Flows, Journeys

Meet the Users:
Personas, Task Flows, Journeys

Meet the Users:
Personas, Task Flows, Journeys

In preparation for wireframing, I delved deep into the realms where

our users are most active – from photography communities on

500px to travel discussions on Instagram and forums dedicated

to trip planning.


By engaging directly with fellow travelers and explorers, I fostered

a genuine connection, allowing me to fully understand their hopes,

challenges, and everyday interactions while planning trips and

seeking authentic experiences. This empathetic approach not only

enriched my research but also enabled me to craft detailed

personas that truly reflect the aspirations and needs of modern

travelers.


These personas, in turn, informed the creation of task flows and user

journeys, setting a solid foundation for the design phase.In this way,

I gained deep insights that helped me to create, or rather uncover,

my personas for Vibe Voyage.

In preparation for wireframing, I delved deep into the realms where our users are most

active – from photography communities on 500px to travel discussions on Instagram

and forums dedicated to trip planning.


By engaging directly with fellow travelers and explorers, I fostered a genuine connection,

allowing me to fully understand their hopes, challenges, and everyday interactions while

planning trips and seeking authentic experiences. This empathetic approach not only

enriched my research but also enabled me to craft detailed personas that truly reflect the

aspirations and needs of modern travelers.


These personas, in turn, informed the creation of task flows and user journeys, setting a solid

foundation for the design phase.In this way, I gained deep insights that helped me to create,

or rather uncover, my personas for Vibe Voyage.

In preparation for wireframing, I delved deep into the realms where

our users are most active – from photography communities on

500px to travel discussions on Instagram and forums dedicated

to trip planning.


By engaging directly with fellow travelers and explorers, I fostered

a genuine connection, allowing me to fully understand their hopes,

challenges, and everyday interactions while planning trips and

seeking authentic experiences. This empathetic approach not only

enriched my research but also enabled me to craft detailed

personas that truly reflect the aspirations and needs of modern

travelers.


These personas, in turn, informed the creation of task flows and user

journeys, setting a solid foundation for the design phase.In this way,

I gained deep insights that helped me to create, or rather uncover,

my personas for Vibe Voyage.

The insights I gathered during my research helped me develop 3 personas:
Riya – The Solo Explorer Jay – The Family Traveler Akhil – The Budget Backpacker
The insights I gathered during my research helped me develop 3 personas:
Riya – The Solo Explorer Jay – The Family Traveler Akhil – The Budget Backpacker
The insights I gathered during my research helped me develop 3 personas:

Riya – The Solo Explorer

Jay – The Family Traveler

Akhil – The Budget Backpacker

Meet the Users:
Personas, Task Flows, Journeys

In preparation for wireframing, I delved deep into the realms

where our users are most active – from photography

communities on 500px to travel discussions on Instagram

and forums dedicated to trip planning.


By engaging directly with fellow travelers and explorers, I

fostered a genuine connection, allowing me to fully

understand their hopes, challenges, and everyday

interactions while planning trips and seeking authentic

experiences. This empathetic approach not only enriched my

research but also enabled me to craft detailed personas that

truly reflect the aspirations and needs of modern travelers.


These personas, in turn, informed the creation of task flows

and user journeys, setting a solid foundation for the design

phase.In this way, I gained deep insights that helped me to

create, or rather uncover, my personas for Vibe Voyage.

The insights I gathered during my research helped
me develop 3 personas:

Riya – The Solo Explorer

Jay – The Family Traveler

Akhil – The Budget Backpacker

Exploration, Ideation:
1A & Wireframes

Exploration, Ideation:
1A & Wireframes

In the exploration and ideation phase for Vibe Voyage, I focused on the

core functionalities that would address the main concerns of our user

personas—discovering authentic experiences, connecting with locals,

and engaging with fellow travelers.


Recognizing the need for a seamless and intuitive user experience, I

meticulously mapped out the journey of a traveler searching for

restaurants, attractions, and stays, saving favorites, and interacting

with trusted local and traveler reviews. Key features were

conceptualized to include personalized destination suggestions,

curated local insights, and a chat interface for connecting with locals

and fellow explorers.


With these priorities in mind, initial sketches were drawn, leading to the

development of the first set of wireframes.

In designing Vibe Voyage, I focused on a feature that allows travelers to explore and bookmark destinations, restaurants, attractions,

and accommodations, along with detailed profiles, reviews, and insider tips from locals and fellow travelers. Integration of a familiar,

intuitive interface was key, so we adopted well-known navigation patterns to provide a sense of ease and confidence while exploring.


The wireframes included detailed flows for searching locations, filtering attractions based on locations, and receiving personalized

suggestions. This was followed by the development of mid-fidelity mockups, which incorporated feedback from our initial user

research, highlighting the desire for a seamless, intuitive, and personalized travel planning experience. Below, you can see a brief of

my wireframes with interaction arrows.

In the exploration and ideation phase for Vibe Voyage, I focused on the core functionalities that

would address the main concerns of our user personas—discovering authentic experiences,

connecting with locals, and engaging with fellow travelers.


Recognizing the need for a seamless and intuitive user experience, I meticulously mapped out

the journey of a traveler searching for restaurants, attractions, and stays, saving favorites, and

interacting with trusted local and traveler reviews. Key features were conceptualized to include

personalized destination suggestions, curated local insights, and a chat interface for connecting

with locals and fellow explorers.


With these priorities in mind, initial sketches were drawn, leading to the development of the first

set of wireframes.

In designing Vibe Voyage, I focused on a feature that allows travelers to explore and bookmark

destinations, restaurants, attractions, and accommodations, along with detailed profiles,

reviews, and insider tips from locals and fellow travelers. Integration of a familiar, intuitive

interface was key, so we adopted well-known navigation patterns to provide a sense of ease

and confidence while exploring.


The wireframes included detailed flows for searching locations, filtering based on preferences,

and receiving personalized suggestions. This was followed by the development of mid-fidelity

mockups, which incorporated feedback from our initial user research, highlighting the desire

for a seamless, intuitive, and personalized travel planning experience. Below, you can see a

brief of my wireframes with interaction arrows.

Exploration, Ideation:
1A & Wireframes

In the exploration and ideation phase for Vibe Voyage, I focused on the

core functionalities that would address the main concerns of our user

personas—discovering authentic experiences, connecting with locals,

and engaging with fellow travelers.


Recognizing the need for a seamless and intuitive user experience, I

meticulously mapped out the journey of a traveler searching for

restaurants, attractions, and stays, saving favorites, and interacting

with trusted local and traveler reviews. Key features were

conceptualized to include personalized destination suggestions,

curated local insights, and a chat interface for connecting with locals

and fellow explorers.


With these priorities in mind, initial sketches were drawn, leading to the

development of the first set of wireframes.

In designing Vibe Voyage, I focused on a feature that allows travelers to explore and bookmark destinations,

restaurants, attractions, and accommodations, along with detailed profiles, reviews, and insider tips from

locals and fellow travelers. Integration of a familiar, intuitive interface was key, so we adopted well-known

navigation patterns to provide a sense of ease and confidence while exploring.


The wireframes included detailed flows for searching locations, filtering based on preferences, and receiving

personalized suggestions. This was followed by the development of mid-fidelity mockups, which

incorporated feedback from our initial user research, highlighting the desire for a seamless, intuitive, and

personalized travel planning experience. Below, you can see a brief of my wireframes with interaction arrows.

Exploration, Ideation:
1A & Wireframes

In the exploration and ideation phase for Vibe Voyage, I

focused on the core functionalities that would address the

main concerns of our user personas—discovering authentic

experiences, connecting with locals, and engaging with

fellow travelers.


Recognizing the need for a seamless and intuitive user

experience, I meticulously mapped out the journey of a

traveler searching for restaurants, attractions, and stays,

saving favorites, and interacting with trusted local and

traveler reviews. Key features were conceptualized to

include personalized destination suggestions, curated local

insights, and a chat interface for connecting with locals and

fellow explorers.


With these priorities in mind, initial sketches were drawn,

leading to the development of the first set of wireframes.

In designing Vibe Voyage, I focused on a feature that allows

travelers to explore and bookmark destinations,

restaurants, attractions, and accommodations, along with

detailed profiles, reviews, and insider tips from locals and

fellow travelers. Integration of a familiar, intuitive interface

was key, so we adopted well-known navigation patterns to

provide a sense of ease and confidence while exploring.


The wireframes included detailed flows for searching

locations, filtering based on preferences, and receiving

personalized suggestions. This was followed by the

development of mid-fidelity mockups, which incorporated

feedback from our initial user research, highlighting the

desire for a seamless, intuitive, and personalized travel

planning experience. Below, you can see a brief of

my wireframes with interaction arrows.

Usability Testing

Usability Testing

Usability Testing & Affinity Mapping

I developed an interactive prototype of Vibe Voyage and conducted an initial

test with a small group of volunteers. The test was structured to gather insights

on the app’s usability, intuitiveness, and overall experience.


Scenario: The user has just opened the app and wants to explore destinations,

find authentic local experiences, and connect with locals or fellow travelers.


Task 1: Log in and explore nearby attractions, providing feedback on the ease

of access and clarity of information about each location.


Task 2: Search for a destination or attraction and explore the detailed profiles,

reviews, and tips.


Task 3: Connect with a local or traveler to ask questions and gather firsthand

insights about the destination.


This approach allowed me to collect valuable feedback on the app’s user

interface and functionality, directly from the target audience.

I developed an interactive prototype of Vibe Voyage and conducted an initial test with a small

group of volunteers. The test was structured to gather insights on the app’s usability,

intuitiveness, and overall experience.


Scenario: The user has just opened the app and wants to explore destinations, find authentic

local experiences, and connect with locals or fellow travelers.


Task 1: Log in and explore nearby attractions, providing feedback on the ease of access and

clarity of information about each location.


Task 2: Search for a destination or attraction and explore the detailed profiles and reviews.


Task 3: Connect with a local or traveler to ask questions and gather firsthand insights about

the destination.


This approach allowed me to collect valuable feedback on the app’s user interface and

functionality, directly from the target audience.

Usability Testing Results & Affinity Mapping

After conducting usability testing, I utilized affinity mapping to

organize and analyze the feedback and insights collected.

I applied Nielsen’s Severity Rating Scale to prioritize the most

critical issues and areas for improvement.

A preference test was conducted to understand user reactions to

different UI elements, with particular focus on the layout and color

schemes. This feedback was pivotal in refining the app’s UI design,

ensuring that it resonated more effectively with our target

audience’s preferences and expectations.

After conducting usability testing, I utilized

affinity mapping to organize and analyze

the feedback and insights collected.

I applied Nielsen’s Severity Rating Scale to

prioritize the most critical issues and areas

for improvement.

A preference test was conducted to understand

user reactions to different UI elements, with

particular focus on the layout and color schemes.

This feedback was pivotal in refining the app’s UI

design, ensuring that it resonated more

effectively with our target audience’s

preferences and expectations.

Usability Testing Results & Affinity Mapping

I developed an interactive prototype of Vibe Voyage and

conducted an initial test with a small group of volunteers.

The test was structured to gather insights on the app’s

usability, intuitiveness, and overall experience.


Scenario: The user has just opened the app and wants to

explore destinations, find authentic local experiences,

and connect with locals or fellow travelers.


Task 1: Log in and explore nearby attractions, providing

feedback on the ease of access and clarity of

information about each location.


Task 2: Search for a destination or attraction and explore the

detailed profiles, reviews, and tips.


Task 3: Connect with a local or traveler to ask questions and

gather firsthand insights about the destination.


This approach allowed me to collect valuable feedback on

the app’s user interface and functionality, directly from the

target audience.

Usability Testing

After conducting usability testing, I utilized affinity mapping

to organize and analyze the feedback and insights collected.

I applied Nielsen’s Severity Rating Scale to prioritize the

most critical issues and areas for improvement.

A preference test was conducted to understand user reactions

to different UI elements, with particular focus on the layout and

color schemes. This feedback was pivotal in refining the app’s

UI design, ensuring that it resonated more effectively with our

target audience’s preferences and expectations.

Usability Testing

Usability Testing
& Affinity Mapping

I developed an interactive prototype of Vibe Voyage and

conducted an initial test with a small group of volunteers.

The test was structured to gather insights on the app’s

usability, intuitiveness, and overall experience.


Scenario: The user has just opened the app and wants to

explore destinations, find authentic local experiences, and

connect with locals or fellow travelers.


Task 1: Log in and explore nearby attractions, providing

feedback on the ease of access and clarity of information

about each location.


Task 2: Search for a destination or attraction and explore

the detailed profiles and reviews.


Task 3: Connect with a local or traveler to ask questions

and gather firsthand insights about the destination.


This approach allowed me to collect valuable feedback on

the app’s user interface and functionality, directly from the

target audience.

A preference test was conducted to understand user reactions

to different UI elements, with particular focus on the layout and

color schemes. This feedback was pivotal in refining the app’s UI

design, ensuring that it resonated more effectively with our

target audience’s preferences and expectations.

After conducting usability testing, I utilized affinity mapping to

organize and analyze the feedback and insights collected.

I applied Nielsen’s Severity Rating Scale to prioritize the most

critical issues and areas for improvement.

Vibe Voyage's Design Intermission: Clarifying & Enhancing Usability

Transitioning the app from a simple interface to a refined, intuitive design, focused on providing clarity and effortless navigation,

making what can be an overwhelming process into an engaging and enjoyable journey.

Vibe Voyage's Design Intermission: Clarifying & Enhancing Usability

Transitioning the app from a simple interface to a refined, intuitive design, focused on providing clarity and

effortless navigation, making what can be an overwhelming process into an engaging and enjoyable journey.

Vibe Voyage's Design Intermission: Clarifying & Enhancing Usability

Transitioning the app from a simple interface to a refined, intuitive design, focused on

providing clarity and effortless navigation, making what can be an overwhelming

process into an engaging and enjoyable journey.

Vibe Voyage's Design Intermission:
Clarifying & Enhancing Usability

Transitioning the app from a simple interface to a refined,

intuitive design, focused on providing clarity and

effortless navigation, making what can be an overwhelming

process into an engaging and enjoyable journey.

User Interface Design

User Interface Design

The name Vibe Voyage emerged during my exploration of travel communities and photography networks, capturing the essence of

authentic discovery and shared experiences.


As I began designing the UI, the initial goal was to reflect the app’s mission: to provide travelers with clear, accessible guidance while

uncovering the true character of each destination.


Feedback from fellow photographers and travelers guided me toward a more universal design approach, ensuring the interface

remained intuitive, approachable, and visually engaging for users of all backgrounds. The focus was on creating an experience that is

both functional and inspiring, encouraging exploration beyond conventional tourist paths.


Over the course of iterative design, the app’s purpose became clearer: Vibe Voyage needed to be a seamless platform where

travelers could easily discover local insights, connect with others, and share authentic experiences.


Ultimately, the design evolved into more than a travel guide or review platform, it became a dynamic community hub, where

travelers and locals alike can exchange insights, stories, and recommendations, making every journey richer and more meaningful.

The name Vibe Voyage emerged during my exploration of travel communities and photography networks,

capturing the essence of authentic discovery and shared experiences.


As I began designing the UI, the initial goal was to reflect the app’s mission: to provide travelers with clear,

accessible guidance while uncovering the true character of each destination.


Feedback from fellow photographers and travelers guided me toward a more universal design approach,

ensuring the interface remained intuitive, approachable, and visually engaging for users of all backgrounds.

The focus was on creating an experience that is both functional and inspiring, encouraging exploration beyond

conventional tourist paths.


Over the course of iterative design, the app’s purpose became clearer: Vibe Voyage needed to be a seamless

platform where travelers could easily discover local insights, connect with others, and share authentic

experiences.


Ultimately, the design evolved into more than a travel guide or review platform, it became a dynamic community

hub, where travelers and locals alike can exchange insights, stories, and recommendations, making every journey

richer and more meaningful.

User Interface Design

The name Vibe Voyage emerged during my exploration of travel communities and photography

networks, capturing the essence of authentic discovery and shared experiences.


As I began designing the UI, the initial goal was to reflect the app’s mission: to provide travelers

with clear, accessible guidance while uncovering the true character of each destination.


Feedback from fellow photographers and travelers guided me toward a more universal design

approach, ensuring the interface remained intuitive, approachable, and visually engaging for

users of all backgrounds. The focus was on creating an experience that is both functional and

inspiring, encouraging exploration beyond conventional tourist paths.


Over the course of iterative design, the app’s purpose became clearer: Vibe Voyage needed

to be a seamless platform where travelers could easily discover local insights, connect with

others, and share authentic experiences.


Ultimately, the design evolved into more than a travel guide or review platform, it became a

dynamic community hub, where travelers and locals alike can exchange insights, stories, and

recommendations, making every journey richer and more meaningful.

User Interface Design

The name Vibe Voyage emerged during my exploration

of travel communities and photography networks,

capturing the essence of authentic discovery and

shared experiences.


As I began designing the UI, the initial goal was to reflect

the app’s mission: to provide travelers with clear,

accessible guidance while uncovering the true character

of each destination.


Feedback from fellow photographers and travelers

guided me toward a more universal design approach,

ensuring the interface remained intuitive, approachable,

and visually engaging for users of all backgrounds.

The focus was on creating an experience that is both

functional and inspiring, encouraging exploration beyond

conventional tourist paths.


Over the course of iterative design, the app’s purpose

became clearer: Vibe Voyage needed to be a seamless

platform where travelers could easily discover local

insights, connect with others, and share authentic

experiences.


Ultimately, the design evolved into more than a travel guide

or review platform, it became a dynamic community hub,

where travelers and locals alike can exchange insights,

stories, and recommendations, making every journey richer

and more meaningful.

Vibe Voyage taught me

Vibe Voyage has been a journey of exploration and refinement, evolving from a simple idea of sharing travel tips to a holistic

platform that connects travelers with locals and authentic experiences. This growth was driven by continuous engagement

with users, whose insights shaped every feature and interaction. The app’s success in helping travelers discover, connect,

and experience destinations meaningfully underscores the value of accessible, trustworthy guidance.


The philosophy of user-centric design has been central to Vibe Voyage. From the beginning, I immersed myself in

understanding travelers’ aspirations, challenges, and motivations. This empathetic approach enriched the design process

and made the creative journey deeply rewarding. Crafting an experience that reveals what a place truly is, through the eyes

of those who know it best, is a testament to the impact of placing users at the core of every design decision.

Vibe Voyage taught me

Vibe Voyage has been a journey of exploration and refinement, evolving from a

simple idea of sharing travel tips to a holistic platform that connects travelers

with locals and authentic experiences. This growth was driven by continuous

engagement with users, whose insights shaped every feature and interaction.

The app’s success in helping travelers discover, connect, and experience

destinations meaningfully underscores the value of accessible, trustworthy

guidance.


The philosophy of user-centric design has been central to Vibe Voyage. From

the beginning, I immersed myself in understanding travelers’ aspirations,

challenges, and motivations. This empathetic approach enriched the design

process and made the creative journey deeply rewarding. Crafting an

experience that reveals what a place truly is, through the eyes of those who

know it best, is a testament to the impact of placing users at the core of

every design decision.

Vibe Voyage taught me

Vibe Voyage has been a journey of exploration and refinement, evolving from a simple idea of

sharing travel tips to a holistic platform that connects travelers with locals and authentic

experiences. This growth was driven by continuous engagement with users, whose insights

shaped every feature and interaction. The app’s success in helping travelers discover, connect,

and experience destinations meaningfully underscores the value of accessible, trustworthy

guidance.


The philosophy of user-centric design has been central to Vibe Voyage. From the beginning, I

immersed myself in understanding travelers’ aspirations, challenges, and motivations. This

empathetic approach enriched the design process and made the creative journey deeply

rewarding. Crafting an experience that reveals what a place truly is, through the eyes of those who

know it best, is a testament to the impact of placing users at the core of every design decision.

Vibe Voyage taught me

Vibe Voyage has been a journey of exploration and

refinement, evolving from a simple idea of sharing travel

tips to a holistic platform that connects travelers with locals

and authentic experiences. This growth was driven by

continuous engagement with users, whose insights shaped

every feature and interaction. The app’s success in helping

travelers discover, connect, and experience destinations

meaningfully underscores the value of accessible,

trustworthy guidance.


The philosophy of user-centric design has been central to

Vibe Voyage. From the beginning, I immersed myself in

understanding travelers’ aspirations, challenges, and

motivations. This empathetic approach enriched the

design process and made the creative

journey deeply rewarding. Crafting an experience that

reveals what a place truly is, through the eyes of those who

know it best, is a testament to the impact of placing users

at the core of every design decision.