Do you enjoy traveling and discovering new places? Are you a tourist or a traveler? Many people may find this inquiry odd. The reality is, however, that these two phrases are diametrically opposed.
Although the terms “traveler” and “tourist” are sometimes used together, there is a significant distinction between the two.
In this post, we will explain the distinction between a tourist and a traveler. To begin, let’s define the two terms:
Travelers
Travelers are persons who like exploring new locations and immersing themselves in local culture. They are interested in areas never heard of and are less populated. Travelers hope to learn about and experience a new culture while also taking a vacation from their busy lives. Travelers like to fly economy so that they keep their status as regular citizens.
Tourists
Tourists are persons who can easily be spotted among the locals. With a camera in hand, they can be readily recognized as they try to stay in their comfort zone. Many visitors, despite their desire to see a place, are not interested in the local culture or traditions. They like to visit large cities and stay in high-end hotels. Tourists are interested in sightseeing and different famous spots.
What is the difference between a tourist and a traveler?
Some of the characteristics that distinguish a traveler from a tourist are listed below.
Tourists stand out, whereas travelers fit in
Tourists strive to draw attention to themselves, and many of them act strangely towards the locals. They appear to be absorbed in their own thoughts and act like they are alone. Tourists may be seen in groups, wearing sandals, hats, holding a map, a selfie stick, and a camera. Those type of tourists sticks out like a sore thumb.
Travelers make every effort to blend in with the natives. They appear to know where they’re going (even if they don’t), they dress the part, and they make an attempt to conform to the local social norms.
Tourists want comfort food, whereas travelers eat what the locals consume
Tourists are always hesitant to taste the local cuisine. They like to consume comfort food or bring their own meals with them.
Travelers, on the other hand, are interested in learning about the local food and devouring whatever comes their way. They are constantly open to trying new things and love to consume traditional foods. Travelers are more interested in learning about the culture of the place they are visiting.
Tourists like sightseeing and travelers form friendships
Tourists only want to see the most popular and well-known tourist attractions. They don’t really make an effort to interact with locals or see the city’s core. They avoid interacting with natives and stick to their own groups.
Travelers like getting connected with the locals. They get out of their comfort zone to learn about the local language and culture. They tour the city’s center and discover all the best secret locations or learn unique stories.
Tourists dress casually, whereas travelers dress in style
While traveling, tourists choose to wear comfy clothing. It doesn’t matter whether it’s out of fashion or inappropriate for the place they’re visiting. As a result, sometimes they run the risk of not being respectful of a country’s fashion norms.
Travelers have become more knowledgeable and appreciative of the local culture and heritage. They pack clothing that is appropriate for their personal style, comfort, and fashion. In terms of clothing, they are more trendy and useful.
Travelers learn local languages while tourists communicate in their home speech
Tourists only stay in a location for a few days. They make little effort to acquire the local language and prefer to speak in their native tongue.
Travelers strive to blend in with the locals and stay in destinations for extended periods of time. They conduct a thorough study of the locations and seek to learn the language. The majority of travelers are fluent in many languages.
Tourists purchase souvenirs, while travelers negotiate
Tourists only stay for a few days, thus they don’t have much time to see the sights. They are led to well-known tourist stores, where they purchase pricey items without haggling. They accept whatever is available in tourist stores and make no attempt to learn about the specialty.
Travelers who stay in one area for an extended time enjoy getting to know the locals. They look for local treasures and resources. They make an effort to purchase genuine things from the location. They also become friends with certain locals who assist the traveler in discovering the area’s distinctiveness. They purchase mementos at the most reasonable costs possible.
Tourists follow maps, whereas travelers follow their intuition
Most of the tourists arrive via tour firms that have pre-packaged itineraries for them. That’s why they mostly rely on maps and tour guide’s information.
The masters of their own minds are the travelers. They follow their hearts wherever they go. They do not follow any packages and instead explore destinations as suggested by the locals.
Whether you are a traveler or a tourist and you are keen on outdoor experiences or alternative accommodations in nature, book now your stay at Campsaround.
