Sarah Dayman

Quite often when reading blogs or travel articles, I find a favourite subject to be, "How to differentiate between a "Tourist" and a "Traveller".   I have never liked nor have I agreed with this distinction (until today).  I have always taken it personally as I tend to travel in many different ways and really do enjoy visiting many of the world's main attractions. Tons of people visit The Taj Mahal, Machu Pichu or the Great Wall of China and for a very good reason!  I love museums and art galleries. I love taking city tours to learn as much as I possibly can. I love taking small group tours that allow me to explore a culture in detail that I couldn't possibly do on my own.  These things are considered to be "Touristy", which is fine but, I do not like the negative connotation that goes along with it.

Today I read an article (see below) and realized that there is indeed a difference between a "Traveller" and a "Tourist". It helped me distinguish between the people that I have travelled with and the people that just were just there to see the sights with me.

My recent trip to Ecuador with Intrepid Travel and my trip in the fall to Colombia with GAdventures, really introduced me to some REAL Travellers. These people were always talking about where they have been, things they have seen and things they have done. They talk with a level of excitement that is so addictive and inspirational.  Never once did you hear about regrets.  Every experience they have had is treasured and appreciated whether it is positive or negative. Every aspect of a different culture is embraced.

So what do I consider to be the difference between a Tourist and a Traveller? 

A Traveller has the attitude and the ability to view their surroundings with open eyes leaving behind any pre-misconceptions.  They appreciate what is in front of them for what it is and value the experience for how different it is from the way it is at home.

A Tourist has very different needs.  They crave to see the world and its amazing sights however only through the eyes of their home country.  They prefer their native tongue. They prefer that things look and feel like it does at home (as much as possible).  They fear being called a "Tourist". 

Why is the distinction important? 

For me it is simple.  I offer travel solutions to many different types of people.  It is VERY important to me that my clients LOVE their experiences.  If they don't, then I take it very personally.

What I would recommend for someone needing more creatures of comforts would be very different from what I would recommend to someone who are more comfortable with a more raw experience.

Why is it important for others? 

Knowing what type of traveller you are will help you and your consultant to put together the ideal vacation.  Travelling is a big investment.  You want it to be just right.  If you give your consultant the right information then they will be able to maximize your experience!  The great thing is that they can do it YOUR way!

In the end, it is possible to be a Traveller and only visit main world sights.  It is possible be a Traveller and visit museums.  It is possible to be a Traveller and NOT "go off the beaten track".  I crave to develop the ability to see the world for what it is, pass no judgement, and enjoy every minute and experience it with no regrets.

Everyday Mindfulness