When one hears the word “tourist,” a certain image likely comes to mind. For me, it is the camera-toting out-of-towner with a well-worn guidebook and map. Eager to see every well-known attraction in a particular city, their trip is scheduled to the last detail. They are there to see their destination’s highlights . . . and only the highlights. They will return to their homes at the end of the trip with more than a few stories and, probably, some gift shop-purchased souvenirs. But, something will remain missing. The itinerary of a traveler, by contrast, is often less structured. While they, too, may consult guidebooks and maps, their trip is decidedly less predetermined. Though there may be attractions to see, travelers do not mind stepping off of the beaten path. Seeing not just the highlights, but what else there is to see. Travelers are there for the experience. Tourists often operate on such a rigid schedule that there seems to be little
A truthful and often amusing take on travel . . . and life, in general.