Spring has sprung, and young grads across the country are getting ready to set off on their next adventures but here at Grapefruit Moon we are battling a cosmic deluge, brollies required. If only we could jet off on a Grand Tour and leave the damp behind. Oh well, guess we will satisfy our desires with some stunning travel images and posters.
The Grand Tour began in the 17th century as the culmination of a wealthy young Englishman’s formal education, and comprised of a continental voyage with stops in Paris, Italy, and sometimes Greece. The introduction of railroads in the 19th century opened up the Tour to the middle class, causing the wealthy to escape to exclusive environs like the Riviera. During the 20th century the classical Grand Tour continued to evolve, when the invention of commercial aviation led to wider points of origin and further destinations. Accessibility expanded the definition of ‘tour,’ leading to 1960s Volkswagen Bug road trips and Euro rail pass backpacking. The legacy of the Tour can be seen in today’s gap years and post-high school and -collegiate jaunts across Europe or explorations of Africa and Southeast Asia.
With those setting out on a contemporary Grand Tour in mind, here are some posters from famous graphic designers from Poland to Venice. We think they are the perfect accessory for all the graduates out there voyaging to a dorm room, and make a wonderful bon voyage or welcome home for those continuing education abroad. Congratulations!