Russian new algorithm helps tourists find those secret places that locals love

In a bid to help tourists have a more authentic travel experienc, programmers from ITMO University in St. Petersburg have created a computer algorithm that allows travelers to find museums, cafes, streets and other interesting spots based on Instagram posts by local inhabitants.

To test the algorithm, scientists analyzed photos taken on Instagram in St. Petersburg in 2016. They compiled a list of places loved by local residents and compared them to the ones that tourists prefer.

“Instagram includes over 600 million users from all over the world,” researchers wrote in their paper. “One of the most prevalent types of Instagram content is photos of places, historical buildings and other interesting locations. There is no doubt that popular places for local citizens and visitors differ.”