“The traveler sees what they see as is, the tourist sees what they have come to see.” GK Chesterton

Many may not think about the difference between being a traveler and being a tourist. For me, a traveler learns from and converses with locals immersing themselves with the local culture, norms, and language. A tourist, on the other hand, only sightsees, specifically popular sights and eateries, and stays within their comfort zone.

When I travel, I like to be curious and courteous, deliberate and patient, comfortable but also adventurous. I converse with locals, I learn phrases in the local language if not English or Spanish, and I learn about and respect the local culture and norms. I also don’t always rely on maps; I often trust my instincts or just wander as I love to do to see what I arrive upon. I don’t shop at the obvious tourist souvenir shops; I more look out for local artisans and local, but often hidden, treasures. As a US American, I don’t eat typical “American” foods like cheeseburgers, fries, and chicken nuggets, or eat at McDonalds, Burger King, Pizza Hut, KFC or other exported eateries around the world. I try to blend in as much as possible and try new foods within my diet restrictions by eating the local cuisine as I know that food is very closely linked to culture.

Happy traveling!