Is It Worth Traveling for a Tattoo?

Hello Everyone!
In today’s episode, I’d like to give you a small thought to reflect on: does it make sense to travel somewhere to get a tattoo? Is a tattoo something you simply look for in your neighbourhood, or is it a lifetime decision that’s worth investing more time and energy in?

A Tattoo Is a Lifetime Decision

I believe it is a lifetime decision.

Getting a tattoo, unlike most things we do, stays with us for a very long time. Trying a new bakery, buying a new phone, or testing a new haircut is easy — if you like it, great. If not, the consequences are small. A tattoo is different.

Just like many creative fields, tattooing has entered an era of specialization. To truly master a profession, you need to focus on it deeply. Unless someone is a rare genius, it’s almost impossible to become excellent at guitar, piano, drums, and flute by practicing each of them for thirty minutes once a week. We get far better results when we choose one.

The same applies to tattoos.
You cannot expect a realism artist to suddenly create a delicate fine line tattoo — and vice versa. Understanding this protects you from disappointment and helps you make informed decisions about your body.

Why Traveling for a Tattoo Sometimes Makes Sense

That’s exactly why traveling for a tattoo session can be a very good idea.

If you’re looking for a specific style, aesthetic, or artistic sensitivity — and no one in your town truly does it (not just claims they can) — then looking a bit further away is often the smartest choice. It can turn into a beautiful adventure.

Stepping outside your comfort zone adds a little tension to the brain, but in return, it often brings confidence, clarity, and pride. Afterwards, you get to say:

“YES. YES. YES.”

A small victory — but life is mostly made of small things.

A good morning coffee.
A meaningful conversation.
Thirty minutes with a book.
And sometimes, traveling to another city — like Amsterdam — to get a tattoo that will stay with you forever.

Choosing Responsibility Over Convenience

If you can find a tattoo studio nearby that truly speaks to you — that’s wonderful. Just take responsibility for your own body and your choices. If that studio happens to be Vadelma Tattoo in Amsterdam, even better. But the most important thing is that you are happy with your decision.

A tattoo should never be rushed, random, or chosen out of convenience alone. It should feel right — aesthetically, emotionally, and artistically.

Final Thoughts

Thank you for today.

I wish you only beautiful tattoos and meaningful experiences with tattoo artists — wherever in the world they may be. And if your journey leads you to Amsterdam, we’ll be here, working slowly, carefully, and with intention.

Much love,
Simon

You can also explore our artwork beyond tattoos in the
VADELMA ART PRINT STORE

FAQ – Traveling for a Tattoo

Is it common to travel for a tattoo?
Yes. Many people travel specifically to work with artists who specialize in a certain style or aesthetic.

Is traveling for a tattoo worth the cost?
If the tattoo fits your values and will stay with you for life, many people find it absolutely worth the investment.

Should I choose convenience or quality?
Quality should always come first. Convenience fades quickly; tattoos remain.

Why is specialization important in tattooing?
Because different tattoo styles require different skills, tools, and experience. Specialization leads to better results.

Can Amsterdam be a good city for a tattoo trip?
Absolutely. Amsterdam is known for its safety, artistic culture, and high-quality tattoo studios.