traveller or tourist

Tourist Vs. Traveler: What's the Difference, And Which Travel Type Is Right For You?

Contrary to what one might believe, there is a difference between a tourist and a traveler - so, which one should you be?

Tourist or traveler - what's the difference and which is better? For the purpose of this discussion, a tourist is someone on a short trip (up to around four weeks) that is just taking annual leave from work. A traveler is someone who has quit their job, become a digital nomad, or has taken an extended leave off work to travel for much longer.

These modes of travel offer very different perspectives and benefits. Traveling full time is not for many people, but for others, it's a dream come true!

If one is a tourist, then one is on a holiday. With this style of travel, one will typically pick one or two specific countries or locations to visit. One will normally want to make the most of one's time and so will plan one's trip carefully. Or one will just stay at a beach resort and enjoy sunbathing and cocktails.

• Tourist: On Holiday - Often two Weeks
• Budget: Much Higher
• Daily Schedule: Packed With Things To See and Do
• Pics: Tons Of Pics Every Day

The daily budget of a tourist is generally much higher. This is the time to have a good time and live it up. One is likely to stay at nice accommodation, go and see expensive attractions, and enjoy various activities. This is the good life and time to spend and enjoy life.

Related:  10 Dream Jobs For People Who Love To Travel, Revealed

A traveler is someone traveling for an extended period of time. This can be done in many ways. One can take a "gap year" - after finishing high school and before entering university, just travel for a year. Alternatively, it is common to take the gap year after finishing university but before starting a job. This is often on a shoestring budget. The trip can be financed by volunteering in countries around the world. This is often where one is hosted by a family, business, or farm and does some amount of work in extend for bed and board. It is an awesome way to enjoy a cultural exchange.

• Budget: Managed To Last Long Term
• Gap Year: Take A Year Off And Do Something Completely Different Somewhere Else In The World

Often travelers will quit their jobs for a year and travel. This is very common in Europe, but perhaps less common in America. Often employers will reluctantly agree that as they are good workers, their job will be there when they get back.

• Options: Living Off Savings, Volunteering, Working And Traveling, Digital Nomad

One can also become a digital nomad and work online. In theory, any job that can be done from home on a laptop can be done remotely, if it can be done remotely, it can be down anywhere where there is internet (depending on the security and timezones, etc. of the company). Just move one's home office to Bora Bora in Tahiti or to an Air BnB on the Greek islands!

Other travelers look for freelancing work that can be done online - they look for work just made for traveling. This can include data analyst, software engineer, online English (or other) tutoring, content management, online forum community management, proofreading, and much more. There are many ways of making money while traveling .

• Online Jobs: Opportunities Online Are Limitless Now!

Travelers are typically traveling at a much slower pace and will often spend days to months just working or chilling somewhere in the world. They may rent an Airbnb in a country for a couple of months. Or work on a farm for a couple of months. But the pace is different as is the budget.

While a tourist may be spending well over $200.00 daily, a traveler may only be spending $50.00 daily (or even $20.00 or zero for savvy backpackers). This of course varies wildly.

Another difference is that whereas a tourist will often choose a place and see it superficially in a short time period. A traveler will choose a region and will often get to know it much better.

Related:  Happiness Is Packing For An Adventure Somewhere Far: Packing Tips For Solo Backpackers

Which is For You?

Which is better is entirely a matter of opinion and circumstance. A tourist is settled in their own country and just wants a break and to see something different. They are settled and have a family or otherwise are happy where they are.

A traveler seeks traveling to be a lifestyle - a way of life (at least for a while). The road can be someone's home. That is of course not for most folks. Most folks want a sense of a place to call home. One compromise that many travelers come to is choosing a country to live in for a year or two, and then move to another.

This is the lifestyle of many NGOs (non-government organizations - normally non-profit charity and development organizations in developing countries). Other people often in this category are workers for the United Nations seeking international postings, and embassy staff seeking international postings.

Next:  Here's Everything Travelers Shouldn't Be Doing While On Vacation From Work

Home » Personal » What is the difference between tourist and traveller?

What is the difference between tourist and traveller?

By Author Macca Sherifi

Posted on Last updated: March 5, 2024

This post contains product affiliate links. These are mainly on items/hotels/tours that I personally endorse & love. I may earn a small commission if you make a purchase, but at no extra cost to you.

It’s time for that age old debate – what is the difference between tourist and traveller? For me, it all comes down to one very important thing.

Tourist vs traveller. Is there any real difference between the two? Does it really matter? And why do people care?

I don’t know why, but arguing the difference between tourist and traveller is something that happens a lot more than you’d think when backpacking and travelling.

Everyone’s got an opinion on this one, and after years of being on the road myself, I thought I’d finally break my silence and wade into the debate. I’ve always found this such an interesting topic, and I’m really interested to hear what you guys think too.

Quoting Alex Garland , author of The Beach , he said:

I had ambiguous feelings about the difference between tourists and travelers – the problem being that the more I traveled, the smaller the differences became. But the one difference I could still latch on to was that tourists went on holidays while travelers did something else. They traveled.

That quote has always resonated within me, but the more and more I travel myself the more and more I believe it boils down to one fundamental difference; travellers care.

Travellers care more than you’ll ever realise

Travellers care about the culture and societies they are visiting. Travellers care about the people they are meeting, both locals and foreigners alike. Travellers care about the way they travel, they want to discover and explore but in a sustainable way. Travellers just care.

A lot of people argue one of the main fundamental differences between a traveller and tourist is education. Not in your own personal education, but the education of travelling. People use travelling as a way to learn about themselves as much as about their surroundings, whereas tourists use travelling as an escapism, a way to forget about themselves as much as the surroundings they’ve left behind.

The way I travel is I completely immerse myself in a country and a new culture. I make the effort to learn as much of the language as I can, I speak to the local people and ask about their background, the local history, the local politics. I try and leave as good of an impression of myself and the country I come from as possible while not being quick to judge theirs.

I do all of this not because I need to but because I want to, because I care.

It’s a pretty broad brush to tarnish all tourists with by saying they don’t care, but I just don’t think a lot of them do.

Is there really a difference between a tourist or traveller though?

This isn’t some pretentious middle class debate, and this isn’t travel snobbery.

I, personally, do think there is a difference between travellers and tourists (unlike a lot of people out there).

Gary Arndt from Everything Everywhere , one of the biggest professional travel bloggers out there, once responded to the same question stating:

There is no difference. It is a distinction used by pretentious people to make themselves feel superior to others. To the locals, no matter how long you’ve been traveling or whatever your mindset is, you are still a tourist. After two years on the road, I’m still a tourist when I show up somewhere new.

This isn’t about feeling superior to anyone. I actually agree; travellers often get high and mighty about being a ‘traveller’, and to a degree this itself is anti-travelling.

However, if there is a difference between travellers and tourists, then it is down to personal perspective, what the individual thinks. Obviously this is my opinion, this is what I believe.

Travelling is such a personal experience, so what other people do, what they see, where they go, it shouldn’t affect what you do or how you feel about travelling. So long as they care.

Tourist and traveller difference: My life as a traveller

In my opinion, more often than not tourists are only ever interested in seeing a country’s sites and attractions as opposed to seeing the people within it, often just to say they’ve been to a particular place, and I think that’s sad, and at times completely contradictory to what tourism is supposed to do, what tourism is supposed to be about.

As I write this I have just come from the beautiful and historic town of Kotor on the coast of Montenegro . It’s a place teeming with tourists and travelers alike.

The town is so small I feel I could kick a football over its walls, yet every single day a new cruise ship moors up and thousands of passengers swarm within the walls, cluttering and clogging up the small side streets of Old Town.

At one restaurant I asked the waiter what he thought of the cruise ship passengers. He said: “They do nothing for the restaurant culture in Kotor. 99% of passengers have already eaten before they’ve left the ship, and they are all told to carry water with them, so they are not interested in restaurants. If anything, the large groups of them walking around Old Town put people off from dining outside.”

Walking around, you will see clusters of passengers all with a guide from the ship. They don’t use local transport, they don’t interact with the local people, and they rarely spend anything of notable worth. All in all, they just don’t care.

Kotor in the early morning and evening is a completely different place compared to the afternoon. Without the tourists, it is tranquil and charming. With them, it is something else entirely. I know which one I prefer.

The real impact of tourists

One night, after everything had closed down, including all the bars, I found a group of locals celebrating the opening of a new shop.

Confident on rakia, the local fiery spirit, I finally asked them what they all thought of the type of tourists Kotor attracted.

One guy, Nikola, said: “They do more harm than good, but it is not their fault, it is the local council’s for allowing them to come in the first place.

“10 years ago, we were all happy. Everyone stayed up late and interacted with each other; a part of that culture has died.

“The local council was only interested in making money, and then the cruise ships came.”

According to local fisherman, fish stocks and with it their way of life and earning a living are down 10 times than what they were just a few years ago.

Also, a particular type of fish has become so rare it is thought to be extinct. It doesn’t take much to deduce the correlation coinciding with the arrival of the cruise ships and the pollution they bring, both in the forms of human pollution and environmental pollution.

This is a problem for both travelers and tourists.

Traveler vs tourist quote

If there’s one quote to sum all of this up, it’s this one by Andrew Zimmern, a famous food writer:

Please be a traveler, not a tourist. Try new things, meet new people, and look beyond what’s right in front of you. Those are the keys to understanding this amazing world we live in.

Perhaps the hardest thing to deal with is as travellers there is very little we can do about tourists.

I guess the only thing we can do is to keep on being ourselves, to keep on travelling, to keep on caring. Or maybe it just doesn’t matter…

What do you think is the difference between a tourist and a traveller? I would love to hear your opinion so make sure you let me know in the comments below.

Also, make sure you read the truth about solo travel in Honduras and El Salvador and the world’s worst value tourist attractions for your next coffee break.

Like this blog post? Then make sure you Pin it!

About the Author

Macca Sherifi is the founder of the multiple award-winning blogs An Adventurous World and the Great British Bucket List. Every month he inspires over 200,000 avid readers to travel the world.

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Friday 10th of June 2022

'Tourist' comes from the word 'tour' which is something which is organised. Package holidays and excursions are for 'tourists', where meals are provided for, or a local representative is available 24/7. A traveller is willing to step outside of his/her comfort zone and to immerse themselves in a different culture. Mass tourism (there's that word again) has a negative impact on it's environment and very often no positive impact at all (think Venice for example), whereas travellers contribute more to local economies by eating at local restaurants and staying at independent hotels. As author Robert Louis Stevenson once said... “I travel not to go anywhere, but to go. I travel for travel's sake. The great affair is to move.” Travellers love the feel of motion under their feet. Tourists can't wait to arrive at their destination.

Macca Sherifi

Wednesday 22nd of June 2022

Ah Scott, you've nailed it. I couldn't have said it better myself. Thanks for the comment - I really appreciate it!

Alyse Theinvisibletourist

Sunday 30th of July 2017

I love the quote from Gary Arndt. If we venture outside of our hometown, we are essentially "tourists" at some point - whether we like to admit it or not! I always ask why are things "travellers" value automatically "better" than what "tourists" do? There are lots of overlaps and I believe we shouldn't have to be defined as one or the other. Thanks for sharing your views on this topic!

Thursday 10th of August 2017

Oh I agree with you. I was being extremely facetious when I wrote this post (a couple of years ago now!) There's such blurred lines between being a traveller and a tourist and I think fundamentally they're the same thing. Expanding on your point, you get just as many annoying travellers as you do tourists! Always a good debate though!

SpainDriving

Wednesday 19th of October 2016

"There is no difference. It is a distinction used by pretentious people to make themselves feel superior to others." I don't think that tourist is something humiliating. It is just two different meanings of the describing of someone who is going to the different city, country, anywhere. You may feel the difference only in the comfort that someone has and another refuses.

Thursday 20th of October 2016

Yeah, safe to say we agree with this one completely! As mentioned, we feel this is perfectly summed up in "The Beach" by Alex Garland. Always an interesting debate though!

Monday 7th of July 2014

Kudos to a nicely written article. I agree with you that there are differences between travelers and tourists. But I don't think that these differences are as clear cut, black and white. There are tourists who care, and travelers who don't. There are many 'travelers' here in Southeast Asia who come to get drunk, and have 'tourist' mentality you've described. I've been traveling for over 10 years and lived in many countries; I enjoyed learning about new culture, picking up new languages, and growing with each experience. I don't think I'm a tourist, but I'm not a traveler either, as 'travel' connotes a destination.

Friday 11th of July 2014

Thanks for the comment Noel; I really appreciate it. I completely agree with you and it is not clear cut black and white. At the end of the day, we're all people doing the same thing, we're all trying to see a country in our own way. It doesn't really matter whether that's for a few days, a few weeks or a few years, as long as we're doing it, you know?

Yes this is your opinion and of course your entitled to it, but Gary is right. Here is the problem; you say your are not pretentious but you certainly sound pretentious.

Definition:

To be pretentious is to make a claim or put on an act to:

A) Fit into a group.

B) Appear "better" than you are or than others.

So you are a "traveler" not a "tourist" and travelers "care" and tourists don't. Kind of nails the definition, doesn't it?

Fair play Rob! I can't really argue with that definition. I really didn't mean to come across as being pretentious; it was just a point of view that I wanted to express and to spark (another) debate. This is a subject that is quite close to my heart and I have found people's comments fascinating. At the end of the day, there really isn't much difference between the two. As long as people are travelling and they are enjoying it, who's to say they're one thing over the other.

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Traveller vs Tourist: Exploring the Essence of Your Journey

Feb 13, 2024 | Feature | 0 comments

Do you enjoy immersing yourself in the local culture or prefer to stick to well-planned tours? This is often the basis for debating whether you are a traveller or a tourist.

The main difference between these two exploration styles is their impact on the individual and the places they visit.

In this article, we will delve into the details of each approach, examining how they can positively impact the world while providing fresh perspectives and experiences for those who embrace them.

Discover whether you align more with the spontaneous explorations of a traveller or the structured sightseeing of a tourist as we explore their impact on the places they visit and the experiences they cherish.

Traveller vs Tourist: Exploring the Essence of Your Journey.

Key Takeaways of the Traveller vs Tourist Debate

• The difference between tourists and travellers often lies in their approach: tourists may follow an itinerary and prioritize comfort, while travellers seek authentic experiences and local immersion.
• Engagement with local culture, such as learning the language, eating local cuisine, and respecting customs, can significantly enrich travel experiences and contribute positively to the community.
• While enjoying the journey, mindful accommodation choices and the impact on local economies are important, and labels like ‘tourist’ and ‘traveller’ should not overshadow the personal nature and authenticity of one’s travel experience.

Traveller vs tourist mindset.

Exploring the Traveller and Tourist Mindsets

While both tourists and travellers explore the world, their approaches often differ. Tourists and travellers differ in their mindset and approach to exploring new places. Tourists often use travel as escapism and comfort, sticking to the itinerary and ticking off lists of iconic sights. On the other hand, travellers seek to enrich their experience by soaking in experiences and discovering off-the-beaten-path locales.

Regardless of their engagement styles, which some people argue about, both parties significantly impact the local economy of the places they visit.

The Quest for Authenticity: Traveller Makes an Effort

Travellers often go the extra mile, literally and metaphorically. They demonstrate a commitment to understanding and respecting local culture by investing time in research and engaging in community host programs. Their journey is marked by an effort to genuinely connect with local traditions and heritage, reflecting their quest for authenticity.

Sightseeing vs. Immersion: Tourists Stick to the Itinerary

Tourists tend to prioritise visiting famous landmarks, sticking to structured travel plans centred around these popular attractions, which can be considered tourist sites. This approach to travel, rooted in historical travel patterns, offers a curated experience of a destination, with scenic and themed journeys emerging to cater to this preference.

Comfort Zone Boundaries: Tourist or Not a Tourist?

However, it’s worth noting that the distinction between a tourist and a traveller isn’t always clear-cut. While travellers might venture outside their comfort zone more frequently, an appreciation for familiar amenities doesn’t preclude a tourist from embracing new experiences.

Travel abroad and partake in volunteering programs worldwide to give back to the communities.

Cultural Engagement: More Than Just a Visitor

To be more than a mere visitor, one must actively engage with local culture, respect societal norms, and uphold environmental responsibility. Here are some ways to do so:

• Learn the local language
• Participate in local farming and crafts
• Support local businesses and artisans
• Respect cultural traditions and customs
• Minimize your environmental impact
• Form lasting bonds with the communities you visit

By following these guidelines, travellers can contribute to the preservation of cultural heritage and respect for cultural norms, leading to a more meaningful and responsible travel experience.

Language as a Bridge: The Effort to Speak Local Words

Mastering even a few local language words can significantly enhance the overall experience. It allows travellers to:

• Connect genuinely with the community and its culture, fostering more meaningful and authentic experiences
• Become more independent and confident
• Open doors to honest conversations with locals
• Bridge cultural gaps

By speaking the local language, travellers can make the most out of their trip, create lasting memories, and connect with local people.

Dining Like a Local: Why a Traveller Eats Local Food

An integral part of travel is relishing local cuisine, which is closely linked to the cultural experience and offers a glimpse into the local heritage. Trying local dishes is a form of cultural immersion, providing insight into the place’s way of life and history.

Eating at small, local restaurants also ensures your money goes directly into the community, providing an authentic culinary experience.

Cultural engagement and exploration.

Accommodation Choices: Where You Stay Matters

Your choice of nightly accommodation can significantly shape your travel experience. From glamping to staying in traditional local housing, your choice of accommodation can set the tone for a truly unforgettable vacation or business trip. After all, understanding your personal accommodation needs is crucial in finding the perfect place to stay.

Beyond the Hotel Experience: Finding Local Charm

Opting for alternatives to traditional hotels can offer deeper insights into local life. Choosing accommodations like Spanish villas, Airbnb, or even boutique hostels can provide a unique and personalized stay, enhancing the authenticity of the travel experience.

Safety and Comfort: Balancing Adventure and Well-being

Undoubtedly, while seeking adventure off the beaten path, safety and comfort remain supreme. Considering the following factors is crucial for a positive and memorable stay:

• Safety features of accommodations
• Access to transport
• Access to cash
• Access to communication

Shared experiences from other travellers can provide insights into finding safe and comfortable accommodations in less explored areas.

. Accommodations like Spanish villas, Airbnb, or boutique hostels can provide a unique and personalised stay.

Economic Impact: Supporting the Community You Visit

Travellers can positively impact local economies by supporting small businesses and local organizations. Increased visitor spending results in higher sales tax revenue, which can be reinvested into the community, leading to economic growth in the areas they visit.

The demand for better infrastructure and expanded service offerings due to tourism serves the visitors and improves the quality of life for residents.

Tourism Industry Realities: The Double-Edged Sword

Yet, it’s critical to remember that tourism can have positive and negative impacts. It can exacerbate local issues such as overcrowding, poor infrastructure, and living conditions, leading to an uneven income distribution, increased consumption of natural resources, and substantial negative ecological impacts.

But the coin has another side: tourism can contribute to cultural safeguarding and revitalization, foster mutual respect, and improve international relations.

Making Conscious Choices: How Your Money Talks

By making mindful decisions, travellers can actively contribute to positive change. Here are some ways to do so:

• Consuming local food
• Staying in eco-friendly accommodations
• Supporting female-owned enterprises
• Donating to local charities

Every decision can help promote social responsibility and empower local communities.

The positive economic impact of travel.

Navigating New Territories: Instincts Over Google Maps

Transitioning from economic implications to exploration, it’s worth discussing how to navigate unfamiliar territories. While Google Maps may be handy, relying on instincts can lead to more spontaneous and explorative experiences.

Intuition can serve as a vital tool for safety, and choosing to navigate without technological assistance can enhance engagement with the local environment and culture.

Discovering the Uncharted: A Traveller’s Joy

Embarking on a journey off the beaten track can be a thrilling experience. Exploring lesser-known locations often leads to more meaningful experiences, new friendships, and transformative experiences. Plus, the anticipation and delight of discovering hidden gems before they gain popularity give many travellers a sense of pioneering and the pleasure of sharing these finds with others and immersing themselves in a new culture.

The Reliance on Technology: When to Put Away the GPS

However, determining when to rely on technology and when to trust our instincts can be a challenge. Avoiding using GPS for navigation can prevent travellers from being confined to well-trodden paths, enabling more unexpected and personal discoveries.

The challenge of finding one’s way without a GPS can boost a traveller’s confidence and foster reliance on one’s abilities to navigate.

Navigating New Territories: Instincts Over Google Maps.

Social Dynamics: Solo Exploration vs Group Excursions

The social interactions during travel play a significant role in shaping the overall experience. Whether you prefer the flexibility of solo travel or the social experience of group travel, each has distinct advantages and opportunities for personal growth.

The Power of Solitude: Personal Growth on the Road

Solo travel offers a unique set of advantages, including:

• A personalized itinerary
• Improved self-awareness
• Enhanced decision-making abilities
• Independence and confidence
• Deepened engagement with the culture and environment

The Group Tour Debate: Convenience vs. Authenticity

Conversely, group tours provide ease and potential cost savings for large groups. They handle all transport, accommodation, and tickets for attractions, making group travel generally cheaper than individually. However, the structured nature of group tours may limit opportunities for personal exploration and authentic experiences.

Social Dynamics: Solo Exploration vs Group Excursions.

The Label Debate: Rejecting Travel Snobbery

However, it’s essential not to get entangled in the terminology. The distinction between ‘traveller’ and ‘tourist’ often leads to a sense of elitism and superiority in travel, which can overshadow the true essence of journeying. After all, travel motivations are varied and should not be subjected to the narrow classifications imposed by travel snobbery.

Why Labels Don’t Define Your Journey

Whether identifying as a tourist or traveller, it’s vital to remember that these labels don’t necessarily reflect the real difference a traveller makes in the quality or authenticity of the travel experience. Each individual has interests and comfort levels that should not be deemed superior or inferior.

After all, travel experiences are personal and cannot be judged by labels.

From Instagram Feed to Real Life: Staying Present

In today’s digital age, it’s tempting to focus primarily on capturing ‘Instagrammable’ moments during travel. But the real adventure lies in the present moment, beyond the camera lens. Navigating without technology can enhance engagement with the local environment and culture, leading to more profound, authentic experiences.

A Summary of a Traveller vs a Tourist

From the characteristics of travellers and tourists to the impacts of travel choices, we’ve explored the essence of journeying. Whether you’re a traveller, a tourist, or a bit of both, remember that the joy of travel lies in the experiences and memories you create, not the labels you wear.

The beauty of exploring new territories, engaging with different cultures, and stepping outside your comfort zone is a universal aspect of travel that transcends these definitions. Each trip offers unique opportunities to learn, grow, and see the world through a new lens.

So, pack your bags with an open mind and a heart ready for adventure, and let the journey transform you as much as you impact the destinations you visit.

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Which a you, a traveller or a tourist?

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between a traveller and a tourist.

The difference between a traveller and a tourist is that a traveller goes to different places and may not return to the previous place. In contrast, a tourist temporarily visits a new place for leisure. So, essentially, a traveller is more about the journey, and a tourist is more about the destination.

Is every tourist a traveller?

According to the Merriam-Webster dictionary, the terms “tourist” and “traveller” are nearly the same, as both involve making a trip or journey for pleasure or culture. Therefore, every tourist is essentially a traveller.

What is the traveller vs tourist debate?

The debate between “traveller” and “tourist” revolves around the image they evoke; a traveller is seen as brave and visiting fewer mainstream places, while a tourist is perceived as following guidebooks to well-known sights.

How can travellers support local communities?

Travellers can support local communities by spending money at small businesses, getting involved with local organizations, and making thoughtful spending decisions. This helps to contribute to the local economy and community positively.

Why is it beneficial to navigate without technology?

Navigating without technology allows for more spontaneous and explorative experiences while boosting confidence and independence in one’s steering ability. It can lead to a deeper connection with the environment and self-reliance.

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10 differences between tourists and travellers

Are you a tourist or a traveller? Find out more with our handy guide!

• A tourist doesn't mind being called a tourist. A traveller does, very much.
• A tourist wants to see all the sights. A traveller wants to see some, but also to find something interesting that isn't in the guidebook.
• A tourist tries foreign food but acts like they're putting a grenade in their mouth. A traveller eats the local food with abandon and spends the next 3 days on the toilet.
• A tourist takes photos of all the famous stuff. A traveller takes pictures of ordinary people and things and is rewarded by the locals with gratitude or puzzlement.
• A tourist will go to McDonalds in a foreign country, with no shame. A traveller will go there too but not tell anyone.
• Tourists tend to travel in large groups or with their families. Travellers tend to travel solo, or with one other person, thus NOT BLOCKING THE PAVEMENT THANK YOU.
• A tourist will learn a few words of the local language. A traveller will too, but act like they know more.
• A tourist gets ripped off. A traveller haggles. And still gets ripped off.
• Tourists (the British ones at least) get drunk. Travellers also get drunk but ensure their drinking money is going directly to the local community.
• Tourists go on holiday. Travellers go travelling.

Do you know any more differences between tourists and travellers? Tell us on Twitter , post on Facebook , or drop us an email !

• Organizations
• Planning & Activities
• Product & Services
• Structure & Systems
• Career & Education
• Entertainment
• Fashion & Beauty
• Political Institutions
• SmartPhones
• Protocols & Formats
• Communication
• Web Applications
• Household Equipments
• Career and Certifications
• Diet & Fitness
• Mathematics & Statistics
• Processed Foods
• Vegetables & Fruits

Difference Between Travelers and Tourists

• Categorized under Language , Words | Difference Between Travelers and Tourists

Travelers and tourists are both people who travel to different locations. The difference is that they have different connotations and that one is a broader term than the other. All tourists are travelers, but not all travelers are tourists.

The word ‘traveler’ simply means someone who travels. ‘Travelling’ itself means going from one place to the other, but it most often means going on a long journey. It isn’t very common to describe yourself as travelling when all you’re doing is going to get groceries. In the UK and Ireland, it can also mean someone who leads a nomadic lifestyle, always moving from place to place. ‘Tourist’, on the other hand, is a very specific word. It means someone who temporarily travels to another location just to enjoy the new place.

When describing people who travel to other countries, there are a few categories they can fall into. Some people have to travel for business, such as when they go to have a conference. Other people go to a place in transit. For instance, someone who wants to go from the US to Tibet would probably have to change planes in China. They would be travelling to China, but it wouldn’t be their final destination. Other people will go to places for charitable work, such as helping out with relief and aid after a major disaster. The last category is travelling for pleasure. This can mean anything from going to another country to enjoy the landscape to going to a theme park or tourist trap.

Tourists are specifically people who go to another place for pleasure when that’s the main goal of the trip. If a businessman were to take some time on his trip to experience the landscape of the place he’s in, then he wouldn’t be a tourist, since that wasn’t the purpose of the trip. Someone who travels for pleasure and takes some time to do some business work would be a tourist.

There are some who divide people who go somewhere for pleasure into travelers and tourists. According to those definitions, tourists are shallow people who care more about boasting that they were in a place than actually experiencing it, while travelers are people who blaze new trails and experience a much deeper connection with a place by going to the exact same attractions that the tourists go to, but more deeply. This is because the people who created this definition are all self-described travelers.

Tourism has gained a bit of a bad reputation. Some tourists will go to places and become a nuisance. For instance, in the United States, the Quileute reservation was damaged by tourists, though that is an extreme example. Other people will act like the stereotype of tourists. However, the majority of tourists do not – it is just far more common to hear about the horror stories than about the people who don’t do anything worth complaining about. Still, because of those people, some don’t want to be associated with the word ‘tourist’ even if they are doing the exact same things a tourist does.

It could be argued that the two words mean different approaches to travelling abroad: tourists want to have a good time with the “normal” travelling activities while travelers have fun by experiencing the culture. There’s nothing wrong with either mindset, because they’re just personal preferences.

To summarize, travelers are people who go to somewhere else. Tourists are people who go to another place to have fun. Some people prefer not to be called tourists, however, because they do not want to be associated with tourists who have behaved badly in the past.

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Cite APA 7 , K. (2016, January 29). Difference Between Travelers and Tourists. Difference Between Similar Terms and Objects. http://www.differencebetween.net/language/difference-between-travelers-and-tourists/. MLA 8 , Kianna. "Difference Between Travelers and Tourists." Difference Between Similar Terms and Objects, 29 January, 2016, http://www.differencebetween.net/language/difference-between-travelers-and-tourists/.

This article is just so…. I mean, there are some truths to it, but it is not True with a capital T. Yes, tourists plan every detail of their travels, mapping out which attractions to hit, what museums to go to, what restaurants to eat in, etc. We all know what tourists are, and your definition of them is very accurate. However, your description of travelers is almost totally arbitrary and generalized to the point of laughability. Reading lights are important to travelers, because they read all the time? That’s like saying fishermen like to bring iPods when they go fishing. It might happen, but it’s not “important” or in any way a defining characteristic of a fisherman. Some travelers may carry what you say, some may not. The travelers I’ve met aren’t defined by what they have, but instead defined by what they do.

In any case, most of the travelers I’ve met are too busy meeting people, drinking, wandering around and getting involved with what’s in the area to be be hunkered down in some cheap hostel with a reading light. To me, you missed the point almost entirely. BOTH tourists and travelers LOVE to “pay attention to the sights and sounds” of the area they’re in, and both love to observe the differences in culture between where they currently are and where they’re from. However, the key difference is HOW they pay attention and WHAT they pay attention to. Tourists have a distance/disconnect with the place they are visiting, looking at the architecture/art/monument/people as alien, something to be observed but not necessarily participated in, something to have showcased in picture frames when they go back home. Travelers, on the other hand, are all about trying to find a connection, something of intangible significance, like befriending locals, crashing on couches, learning new languages, participating in events in the area (ex: if there is a political election or civil rights event happening in the town, going to it because you’re genuinely interested, not to take pictures of it and say you did it). True, the overwhelming majority of travelers pack light and don’t buy tons of souvineers, if any. However, it doesn’t mean that they don’t ever make any plans at all and only buy one-way tickets (many take spur-of-the-moment weekend trips and return). It just means they follow their own ebb and flow of traveling, instead of what some Frommer’s guidebook says or planning out everything to be efficient to a time schedule.

Ultimately, in the big picture, tourists are more interested in things and travelers are more interested in people, though the two aren’t mutually exclusive. A traveler can go to an art museum and appreciate what he/she sees, just as a tourist can befriend a local. There are many overlapping grey areas, depending on the travelers or tourist in question, but for the most part, tourists are primarily concerned with seeing, whereas travelers are primarily concerned with connecting.

Tourist, traveler, visitor, explorer, they’re all only labels with definitions that can interpreted many different ways which all intersect at some point.

It’s easy to conjure images of the tourist as being herded like sheep and not taking an active part in shaping their travel experience. It might not be how I would like to experience my journey, but it’s just that, a choice.

Many travelers “tourist” at some point on their journey. Even the most down-and-out backpacker has gazed at some famous monument or building if only from a distance or casually hung at the back of a tour group to catch what the guide was saying.

Travelers take their time to experience a culture more in depth, other travelers like to enjoy sightseeing and local foods. Others, just like to swim in the ocean and have a great nightlife….Tourists are people who travel to other countries, then the travelling starts…

what is difference between character and attitude? what is difference between goal ,ambition and aim? what is difference between sympathy and empathy?

Amazing blog. Nice to see it here. I got very informative information from this blog.

Thanks for sharing it.

I’ve just read BBC news abt Living in Uruguay. When reading a part which has 2 words “travellers and tourists”…I felt confused..Why they had to write the two words instead of using one of them? And I just used Google to search it..and so amazing when finding this page. I read all this article and comments. Awesome that I found out some helpful info. In my country, it also differs these two words “traveller-lữ khách”, “tourist-khách du lịch”. Some differences…very useful. Tks a lot.

It’s amazing to visit this web site and reading the views of all colleagues concerning this paragraph, while I am also eager of getting knowledge.

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Traveler vs. Tourist – Which Are You?

Are you a traveler or a tourist.

When we think of travel, we often envision exploring exotic destinations, witnessing breathtaking landmarks, and trying out local delicacies. However, not all travelers are created equal. Traveler vs. Tourist is a common debate in the travel community. Some embark on a journey as tourists, while others embrace the role of a true traveler.

This post may contain affiliate links. Please read our  disclosure and privacy policy  for more information.

So, what sets them apart, and how can you transform from being a mere tourist to a seasoned traveler?

The Difference Between Tourists and Travelers

The distinction between tourists and travelers lies in their approach to exploring new places. Tourists tend to prioritize popular attractions and often follow predefined itineraries.

Their primary goal is to check items off their travel bucket list , capturing picture-perfect moments to share on social media. While there’s nothing wrong with this approach, and a good selfie is nice ,  it leaves limited room for genuine immersion and connection with the destination. It leaves a footprint in your phone, not your mind.

On the other hand, travelers approach their journeys as an opportunity to delve deeper into the local culture, traditions, and people. They seek authentic experiences, often venturing off the beaten path to discover hidden gems.

Actual travelers are curious, open-minded, and eager to learn from the places they visit. Their goal isn’t just to see, understand, and grow through their travel experiences.

Embracing the Mindset of a Traveler

Becoming a traveler requires a shift in mindset—a willingness to step out of your comfort zone and embrace uncertainty. Here are some fundamental principles to help you make this transformation:

Embrace Slow Travel

Instead of trying to cram as many destinations as possible into your itinerary, embrace the concept of slow travel. Give yourself the time to explore and immerse in each place fully. Slow travel allows you to connect with the local community, understand their way of life, and appreciate the nuances of their culture. It’s about quality over quantity, providing a deeper and more meaningful experience that allows you to create lasting memories and connections.

Learn the Local Language

Language is the gateway to understanding a culture. Learning basic phrases of the local language, such as greetings and polite expressions, can go a long way in building connections with locals. Before your trip, take language lessons or use online platforms to learn essential phrases.

For instance, learning Albanian online can help you engage more deeply with the locals and navigate the country more comfortably if you travel to Albania. Speaking the local language also demonstrates respect and opens doors to authentic interactions.

Engage with Locals

Interacting with locals is an invaluable aspect of the traveler’s journey. Striking up conversations with residents, asking for their recommendations, and participating in local activities can provide insights and perspectives that guidebooks and online articles cannot offer.

Engaging with locals opens doors to authentic experiences and allows you to understand their daily lives and cultural heritage better.

When you travel as a tourist, it’s easy to remain in a comfortable bubble, only interacting with hotel staff or tour guides. Engaging with locals is an essential step toward understanding the essence of a place.

It helps you break down cultural barriers and fosters genuine connections. By stepping out of your comfort zone and starting conversations with locals, you can discover hidden gems and unique experiences often overlooked in tourist-heavy areas.

In some countries , not many people outside the tourist areas speak English. For instance, learning Albanian online before your trip might be beneficial if you visit rural parts of Albania.

Seek Authentic Experiences

Rather than sticking to the usual tourist hotspots, venture into lesser-known areas to experience the genuine essence of the destination. Exploring local markets, attending cultural festivals, and savoring street food are excellent ways to immerse yourself in the local way of life.

A vital aspect of immersing yourself in a new culture is through its culinary delights . Embrace the opportunity to savor the flavors of the local cuisine. Put away your familiar food preferences and venture into the world of regional delicacies, street food, and traditional dishes.

Visit local markets, where the vibrant displays of fresh produce and spices offer a sensory experience. Engage with street vendors and try dishes you’ve never encountered before. Don’t be afraid to ask for recommendations from locals, as food is often deeply intertwined with their cultural identity.

Seek out experiences that connect you with the soul of the place, fostering a richer and more meaningful travel experience.

Tourists often follow well-trodden paths, which can lead to a superficial understanding of a destination. Travelers, on the other hand, seek to connect with the heartbeat of a place. They are drawn to experiences that reveal the authentic culture and traditions of the location.

Whether it’s joining a local cooking class, attending a traditional dance performance, or participating in a community event, seeking authentic experiences allows travelers to go beyond surface-level sightseeing and engage with the true essence of a destination.

Respect Local Customs

Cultural sensitivity is crucial for any traveler. Familiarize yourself with local customs, traditions, and taboos to avoid offending locals. Understanding and respecting their way of life will lead to more meaningful and respectful interactions.

Whether it’s dressing modestly in conservative cultures or observing specific rituals, respecting local customs shows your appreciation for the destination and its people. You can also show respect by taking the time to learn the vocabulary before you travel. You can do this online, as platforms enable you to learn any language, such as Albanian, Croatian, Thai , or any other language, to enhance your trip.

Cultural respect is at the core of responsible travel. As a traveler, we must recognize that the places we visit are not merely backdrops for our enjoyment; they are home to diverse communities with unique customs and practices.

By being mindful of local customs and traditions, you show consideration for the people and their way of life. It also helps create a positive impression of travelers in the minds of the locals, fostering a more welcoming and enriching travel experience for both parties.

Keep a Travel Journal

Maintaining a travel journal is a beautiful way to capture your experiences, thoughts, and emotions throughout your journey. It helps you process your travels and serves as a cherished memento to revisit and relive your travel memories in the future.

Journaling can also be a form of self-reflection, allowing you to gain insights into your personal growth and transformation during your travels. You can even keep track of your progress in learning Albanian or any other language based on where you are traveling.

Travel journals are windows into our souls, capturing not just the places we’ve been but the emotions, reflections, and growth we’ve experienced along the way. As you embark on your journey as a traveler, take the time to jot down your impressions, the people you meet, the stories you hear, and the unexpected adventures that unfold. Your travel journal becomes a treasure trove of memories, a record of your journey, and a source of inspiration for future travels.

Give Back to the Community

Contribute positively to the communities you visit. Engage in responsible tourism by supporting local businesses, artisans, and sustainable practices. Consider volunteering or participating in community initiatives to give back to the places that enrich your journey.

Giving back benefits the local communities and adds depth and purpose to your travels, making them more meaningful and rewarding.

Traveling with a sense of purpose extends beyond our enjoyment; it involves positively impacting the places we visit. As travelers, we have the power to influence local economies and livelihoods. By supporting local businesses, artists, and artisans, we contribute to preserving traditional crafts and culture.

Engaging in volunteer activities allows us to give back to the communities that have welcomed us with open arms, leaving behind a legacy of positive change and fostering sustainable tourism practices.

Embrace Flexibility

Travel plans may not always go as intended, and that’s okay. Embrace the unexpected and be open to serendipitous encounters. Adapting and staying flexible allows you to make the most of unplanned opportunities. Sometimes, it’s in those spontaneous moments that you create the most unforgettable memories.

As much as we plan and prepare, travel has a way of surprising us. Flights may be delayed, attractions might be closed, and weather conditions can change rapidly. But rather than letting these obstacles dampen your spirits, embrace the spirit of adventure and adaptability.

Some of the most cherished travel memories come from unexpected detours and chance encounters. Embrace them as part of the journey, and you’ll find that the beauty of travel lies in its unpredictability.

Your vacation starts from the moment you walk out of your home. If you see it that way, nothing can ruin your day.

Travel Responsibly and Sustainably

As travelers, we protect and preserve the world’s natural and cultural wonders. Be mindful of your impact on the environment and local communities. Opt for eco-friendly accommodations, reduce waste, and support initiatives that promote sustainable tourism practices. Traveling responsibly ensures that future generations can also experience the beauty of the destinations we cherish.

Sustainable travel is about making choices that positively impact the places we visit. This includes minimizing our carbon footprint, supporting conservation efforts, and respecting wildlife and natural habitats. By being conscious of our actions, we can help protect fragile ecosystems and contribute to the preservation of the world’s cultural heritage.

Be Open to Learning

One of the most significant advantages of travel is the opportunity to learn and grow. Stay curious and approach each new experience with an open mind. Embrace the chance to challenge preconceived notions and expand your understanding of the world.

Traveling is not just about visiting different places but about gaining insights that enrich our lives and shape our perspectives. Being open to learning means seeking new perspectives, being receptive to new ideas, and being willing to change and grow.

Engage in conversations with people from different backgrounds, attend workshops or lectures, and read books or articles about the history and culture of the places you visit. Take time to learn the language, such as Albanian, before traveling to make conversing easier.

Traveling can be a transformative experience, and being open to learning ensures you return home with a more profound appreciation for the world’s diversity.

It Doesn’t Take Much Effort To Be a Traveler, So What Are You Waiting For?

Whether you see yourself as a tourist or a traveler is a matter of mindset and approach. While both travel styles have pros and cons, embracing the perspective of a true traveler can lead to more enriching journeys.

Immersion, cultural understanding, and meaningful connections will help you create travel experiences that leave a lasting impact on both yourself and the places you visit.

So, the next time you embark on a new adventure, challenge yourself to step outside the role of a passive observer and embrace the role of a curious, open-minded traveler. Embrace the beauty of slow travel, immerse yourself in local customs, seek out authentic experiences, and be mindful of your impact.

Is it necessary to learn the local language before traveling overseas?

While not necessary, learning the local language can significantly enhance your travel experience. It can facilitate communication with locals, help you navigate more efficiently, and aid in a deeper appreciation of the local culture. Thanks to the latest apps, learning a new language has never been easier. You can learn Albanian, Thai , Croatian, or any other language online before you travel.

How can I give back to the local community during my trip?

You can give back to the local community in several ways—by volunteering at a local organization, donating to a local cause, or supporting local businesses by buying their products or services.

What is slow travel, and how can I practice it?

Slow travel is the practice of spending more time in fewer places. Instead of trying to see everything, it encourages travelers to take the time to explore an area thoroughly, engage with locals, and immerse in the local culture. You can practice it by reducing the number of destinations on your itinerary and spending more time in each place.

How can I ensure my safety while visiting less touristy areas?

Researching the area thoroughly, staying alert, and hiring a local guide can help ensure your safety. Learning about local customs or rules that tourists should follow is also beneficial.

Closing Thoughts

Remember, the true joy of travel lies not just in the destinations you visit but in the journey of self-discovery and cultural exploration along the way. Happy travels!

Looking for more Travel Hacks? Start here:

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• Free Airline Stopovers Programs – Two Countries for One Price
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Nikki Webster is a travel writer who covers how to travel while grinding a day job without breaking the bank. Nikki is always in search of off-the-beaten-track experiences and unique stays. She is particularly fond of Florida and writes extensively about the state. She flies around 60,000 miles annually and has visited 74 countries, 50 states, and six continents. You can read all about her travels at www.britonthemove.com or follow along on Facebook, Pinterest, and Instagram.

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I strongly believe I am more of a traveler than a tourist.

Thank you for this nice article.

Me too :) Nikki

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• Klub putnika

Are you a Traveller or a Tourist

"Tours for travelers, not tourists" is the slogan of a tour company whose brochure landed on my desk a while back. This stuck me as a pretty nifty little Zen koan. Tours that aren't for tourists, I gather, are roughly equivalent to bicycles that aren't for bicyclists and flutes that aren't for flutists.

I hate to shatter anyone's cherished prejudice, but here's the definition of "tourist" in Webster's New World Dictionary: "a person who makes a tour, esp. for pleasure." Which means that if you go on a tour -- even one operated by this particular company -- you are, by definition, a tourist.

Not that there's anything wrong with that.

But among the status-conscious, the word "tourist" has come to mean "anyone who travels in a style I consider inferior to the way I like to think I do it."

You can't open a glossy travel magazine or click on a Web page these days without tripping over one of those tiresome aphorisms: A tourist travels to get away from home; a traveler feels at home when he travels. A traveler sees what he sees; the tourist sees what he has come to see. A traveler makes his own way; a tourist has another make his way for him. A tourist takes his prejudices with him; a traveler is transformed by his journeys. A tourist comes home with photos; a traveler comes home with memories.

In other words: A traveler like me is cool; a tourist like you is a dork.

The travel media loves to promote this bogus dichotomy. "Be a traveler, not a tourist," is the slogan on ads for "Without Reservations," a new show on the Travel Channel, as writer Rolf Potts pointed out recently on his blog. The very same tagline is on the cover of a guidebook series published by Open Road and was, for a while, the name of a column in National Geographic Traveler magazine.

If there really is that big a gap between travelers and tourists, I truly doubt you're going to bridge it by choosing one mass-market guidebook over another or watching a half-hour show wedged between Texas Hold 'Em tournaments on the Travel Channel.

The problem, I think, is that it's gotten so much harder for status-conscious travelers to feel superior. A generation or two ago, merely stepping onto an airplane or a train or a ship and going somewhere -- anywhere -- was all it took to give you the backyard-barbecue standing of a sophisticated man of the world. But these days everyone travels -- on the trail to Everest I once ran into a vacationing San Francisco stripper -- so what can be done to elevate yourself over your fellow travelers? Deride them as "tourists."

The thing is, as Potts noted, we're all tourists (in the "unsophisticated traveler" sense of the world). We all spend a brief time in a foreign place and then leave. Some might work harder than others to get off the main tourism grid, and some put more effort into chatting up the locals. Riding on the chicken bus or sleeping with the pigs on the floor of a village headman's house are memorable things to do, but if you think this gives you any significant insight into another culture you're kidding yourself.

Travel for me is humbling, and the more I do it, the more I realize it's impossible to come home after a few weeks with any more than a surface-skimming understanding of other people, no matter how many chicken buses I ride. I try to make a few friends and absorb as much as I can, but I've come to appreciate that the world is an impossibly vast and complicated place.

Sometimes when I travel abroad I do feel at home, and sometimes I feel (as "tourists" are accused of feeling) like a stranger in an extraordinarily strange land. I like that feeling much better. Sometimes I make my own way, and sometimes I'm happy to have my way made for me. Sometimes I'm transformed by my journeys, and sometimes, to be honest, I'm not. Let the traveler-not-a-tourist without sin cast the first stone (or flaming e-mail).

As far as I'm concerned, whatever anyone wants to do on his vacation -- walk barefoot across the Hindu Kush or sip Bahama Mama cocktails on the Lido deck -- is his own business, as long as he adheres to a couple of basic rules: Treat the people and places you visit with respect. Act in a way that reflects well on your fellow Americans. That's pretty much it.

Last year in Venice, I found myself dining next to a rather voluble family from Dallas. They spent most of their meal speculating about the upcoming high school football season, and at one point the father raised his glass and declared that they'd traveled the length and width of Italy and never once had a meal that couldn't be bettered in Dallas.

Now Venice is hardly the culinary capital of Italy, but this guy almost made me choke on my pasta e fagioli. Still, he was entitled to his opinion. I fault him only for broadcasting it to the entire restaurant. Oh, and I also fault his wife for standing up and yelling at the waiter who still hadn't brought her glass of wine after five whole minutes. I just prayed they wouldn't recognize me as a fellow American and try to strike up a conversation.

Were these folks "tourists" and was I a "traveler"? Well, we'd all found our way to the very same restaurant and were eating the very same food (which frankly wasn't very good, although I'd still rank it ahead of a T.G.I. Friday's). I suppose I felt a little superior to these people, but what's the point?

Why don't we focus on our own experiences and spend a little less time judging our fellow tourists/travelers? If you go on a tour that's advertised for travelers, not tourists, and you want to fancy yourself more sophisticated than someone who goes on a tour that's merely for tourists, go right ahead. But please keep it to yourself.

Text originally published on www.sfgate.com .

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Are You A Traveller Or Tourist?

There’s an awful lot of snobbery around whether you’re a traveller or a tourist. Do you really need to label yourself?

Many people who class themselves as travellers seem to think they’re doing something bigger and better than tourists.

We’re all doing the same thing, enjoying ourselves in different parts of the world, in ways that bring us pleasure.

Disclosure : This website is owned and operated by Mature Adventures. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Commissions are also earned from links to Booking.com, and other retailers. See  Mature Adventures Disclaimer  for more information.

What’s The Difference Between A Tourist And A Traveller?

A traveller or tourist is two sides of the same coin. Both are travelling, and both should be enjoying themselves and their surroundings.

According to the Oxford English Dictionary , the definitions are;

Traveller (or traveler) “A person who is travelling, or who often travels.”Tourist “A person who travels for pleasure.”

If a tourist is a person who travels for pleasure. Why do people who want to class themselves as ‘real’ travellers react to the word tourist so severely?

Travellers Travel For Longer

You might have more time to travel, but why does that qualify you or anyone else to look down their nose at a ‘tourist’ on holiday.

Would you sneer at someone at home who has less time than you to do the things they enjoy? So, why do it when you’re travelling?

Not everyone has the same advantages. If you can travel, remember how lucky you are to be doing what you do.

There are a lot of people who would love to be in ‘tourists’ shoes.

Travellers Look Like Locals

I read that tourists look like tourists, and travellers look like locals. Really?? I have yet to see a traveller or a tourist look like a local. Although, they might think they do …

Travel to the Middle East, cover up wearing a hijab and chador, but you still won’t look like a local even with just your face showing.

Travellers Mix With The Locals

There are a million and one different ways to mix with local people.

Mixing and making friends with local people is great, but it’s not just people who think they’re travellers who do that. 

If you’re bringing cash into the economy, most people won’t mind whether you’re buying dinner and on your way or staying for a few days. You’re getting money into the country that may be much needed, especially now.

Whilst watching a troupe perform local dances may not be everyone’s cup of tea, the money they earn is putting food on the table. So don’t knock that experience for either party.

Especially if you’re someone who barters down to the last penny to get a ‘good deal’.

Tourists Go Sightseeing

So, you visit Agra, are you not going to see the Taj Mahal because that’s sightseeing?

Tourists and travellers both go sightseeing. Isn’t that what we are all there for? 

People who visit a tourist site and then complain that it’s over-commercialised fail to see they’re part of the problem.

We all want to see the wonders of the world. So don’t complain when there are a lot of people there if you’re there too. 

Travellers Get Off The Beaten Track

Some people may want to go off the beaten track and like to find less crowded places to visit that aren’t in the guidebooks.

Going ‘off-piste’, when your phone can show you the way, isn’t so big and brave anymore. Everyone can do it.

For most of the world, you’re no longer on virgin territory. So you won’t be the first or last to visit any out of the way places, whether they’re visible on Google Maps or not.

Tourists Take Tours

Everyone takes tours. They can be large or small. But there are some places where you have to go as part of a tour if you want to see what you’ve come to visit. 

And suppose you’ve organised something with a local, just you and them. That’s still a tour. 

One of my best friends travels a lot using overland trucks like Dragoman . The tours last anything from a couple of weeks to a couple of months.

Does that make him a tourist or a traveller?

It makes him one of the most travelled people I know. And he never feels the need to shout about his adventures or belittle other people for their travel choices.

Travel Advice

If you find yourself chatting to someone who tells you you’re not travelling properly or criticises how you travel, make your excuses and leave. The conversation won’t get any better, I promise!

Travellers Live Like Locals

Locals go to work, pay the bills, get sick, and go to the local doctor. They worry about their kids, just like anyone else.

If you do those things, you’re living like a local. 

Travelling through and ticking off country after country like a worldwide bingo game won’t make anyone ‘a local’.

Travellers Are Adventurous Eaters

Apparently, tourists stick to food they know, and travellers are more adventurous.

Eating insects may look good on your Instagram feed. Some even taste good.

But does what you eat define you?

Tourists Stay In Hotels

There are many reasons we stay where we do when we travel. Of course, circumstances and money play a big part in our choice of accommodation.

Camping is great fun, but not everyone can do it. And it’s not always safe.

Hostels are for everyone, not just younger people. But don’t make the mistake of thinking staying in a hostel makes you a traveller.

Tourists Get Ripped Off

Both tourists and travellers get ripped off. You can be ripped off in your home town, whatever you call yourself.

Travellers Know How To Get More For Their Money

The more you travel, the more you realise what you do and don’t need on your trip. We all cut corners where we can to save money to travel more.

Do your laundry in the hotel sink. Does that make you a traveller?

It probably means you object to paying the price of a t-shirt to have your underwear washed by someone else. Does that make you tight, maybe?

If you use public transport when you can and taxis when necessary, or cheap. Does that make you a traveller or tourist?

Travelling without a package tour takes time, money and confidence. Unfortunately, for many reasons, not everyone has all or any of them.

Why The Tourist Or Traveller Label Is Annoying

The more you read about traveller versus tourist, the more annoying it becomes. One group of people need to name themselves to feel superior whilst looking down their noses at others. 

A bus full of ‘tourists’ arriving at a UNESCO site where you want to take a perfect Instagram shot may be annoying. So instead, relax and enjoy what you and everyone else has come to see.

The ‘travellers’ Instagram shot is probably precisely the same as the ‘tourists’ photo. Or is a ‘traveller’ shot is somehow superior?

It’s travel snobbery. Just the same as ‘travellers’ who like to tell you a place was so much better, less touristy, less commercialised when they saw it ten years ago. They need to prove that they saw things before anyone else.

There’s always someone who’s travelled longer, further, and more adventurous than you. It’s not a competition; there’s no prize at the end of it.

Why miss out on all the amazing things out there, screwed up over having to be bigger and better than everyone else.

Tourist vs Traveller

The debate about tourist versus traveller rages on. But at the end of the day, they’re just two words that separate. Because whilst some ‘travellers’ are touring the world, they keep themselves apart from tourists. 

They might be meeting locals, but how about chatting with a ‘tourist’ to get their equally valuable perception of their travels.

There’s no distinction between tourist and traveller; we’re all strangers making friends in new places.

We all have the right to make our own choices about how or where we travel.

No labels, no travel shaming; travel is a privilege no matter how you choose to do it.

Feel Free To Contact Me

If you have any questions regarding your travels, please don’t hesitate to contact me. I know how difficult it can be to plan a trip, and I’m always happy to help.

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Are You a Tourist or a Traveller?

You may have heard that tourism is out, travelling is in . More than a fashion, it’s a distinction often made by travellers looking to set themselves apart from tourists. But are things really so black and white? And how realistic is being a traveller for most of us anyway?

The difference between tourists and travellers.

If you just look at the stereotypes for tourists and travellers, you will only focus on the differences. Among them are where they stay, what they eat, see and do, and how far they’re willing to go in search of adventure. The stereotypical tourist, for example, stays in nice hotels, takes package deals and eats often in the hotel or TripAdvisor-approved restaurants. By contrast, the traveller seeks more authentic and immersive local experiences, takes the road less travelled, eats where the locals do and prioritises adventure over comfort. You may be one, or you may be both.

It’s a question of purpose

Hiding among many self-proclaimed travellers, however, is a tourist. Tourists aren’t always on the tourist buses and often camp, wander and stargaze too. These aren’t exclusive experiences that one can have and not the other. True, their purpose is primarily to holiday, but how active and in what style all depends on the person.

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Travelling is a profession, tourism is an industry

Travelling in its strictest sense is hard work! It’s getting up at the crack of dawn to catch an overflowing bus or train to the next town. It’s bugs in your room, taking risks, getting lost, pleasant and unpleasant encounters… It’s feeling the fear and doing it anyway!

Many non-professional or unseasoned travellers, not yet familiar with the highs and lows of travel, may be expecting too much from their experiences . Travelling is increasingly romanticised, with the reality sometimes proving very different.

If it’s a holiday you’re after, you’re probably, mostly, a tourist

Tourist vs. Traveller is a way to identify, but often says more about the age or life stage and budget (both money and time) of the person than their real preference. For many people looking at how to spend the annual vacation allowance, a pampering spa-resort with the occasional fine dining experience, is usually more suited for a break from our daily lives. Air-conditioned private tours arranged by the hotel, where you don’t need to plan or do anything other than show up, will certainly leave you more relaxed than many alternatives. Both tourists and travellers want to turn memories into photos , to have been, to have seen. But most tourists don’t want to feel the fear!

KEEN TO EXPLORE THE WORLD?

Connect with like-minded people on our premium trips curated by local insiders and with care for the world

Since you are here, we would like to share our vision for the future of travel - and the direction Culture Trip is moving in.

Culture Trip launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful — and this is still in our DNA today. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes certain places and communities so special.

Increasingly we believe the world needs more meaningful, real-life connections between curious travellers keen to explore the world in a more responsible way. That is why we have intensively curated a collection of premium small-group trips as an invitation to meet and connect with new, like-minded people for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in three categories: Culture Trips, Rail Trips and Private Trips. Our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.

Culture Trips are deeply immersive 5 to 16 days itineraries, that combine authentic local experiences, exciting activities and 4-5* accommodation to look forward to at the end of each day. Our Rail Trips are our most planet-friendly itineraries that invite you to take the scenic route, relax whilst getting under the skin of a destination. Our Private Trips are fully tailored itineraries, curated by our Travel Experts specifically for you, your friends or your family.

We know that many of you worry about the environmental impact of travel and are looking for ways of expanding horizons in ways that do minimal harm - and may even bring benefits. We are committed to go as far as possible in curating our trips with care for the planet. That is why all of our trips are flightless in destination, fully carbon offset - and we have ambitious plans to be net zero in the very near future.

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Tourist or traveller? What are you… and what’s the difference anyway?

Tourist or traveller?

If you’re already tired of the immigrant vs expat debate like I am, you might enjoy thinking about the  new online tempest in a teapot.

It’s just as inane, but apparently affects even more fragile hipster egos.

So: are you a tourist or a traveller?

I, personally, am not sure what I am.

But I lean towards tourist…

My travel strategy is basically get out of Madrid once in a while, go somewhere nice, check out the museums, ogle the locals , eat massive quantities of regional cuisine and get tipsy on whatever booze they have available.

I hardly plan and hardly pack – just get a cheap flight or train ticket, hop on Booking.com  to find a reasonably priced room, and throw half my closet in my carry-on.

That’s about it.

I just wanna go places, and I usually figure the rest out when I get there.

And as I’ve written elsewhere , you won’t see me getting all pretentious about the soul-expanding marvels of travel.

Not that I don’t believe.

It’s just that there are already plenty of other people doing that for me.

And I’m certainly not the first person ever to have crossed an international border. What right do I have to preach the wonders of travel to the whole internet?

Anyway…

Tourist or traveller: What’s the difference?

As far as I can tell, most of the tourist vs traveller debate boils down to the fact that “tourist” has a negative connotation for the youngsters.

They think of their dad in his socks and sandals, massive camera slung around his neck and straw hat on his head… Maybe some of that awful white zinc sunscreen on his nose.

He’s in the Starbucks outside the Louvre in Paris, loudly ordering a pumpkin spice latte and complaining about how the whole country seems to be speaking a language that sounds like a donkey with a severe case of pneumonia.

And so our young traveller says, No, no… I’m not a tourist like that. I’m a traveller!

I’d never (he or she continues) do anything lame like gawk at the timeless works of art at the Louvre – instead I ditched my dad and walked a few blocks away, “off the beaten path” to a quaint little café where I spent the morning eating croissants, watching “the locals” and writing about it in my Moleskine .

‘Cause I’m clearly a superior being of some sort.

Parisians just love croissants – I saw it in a Woody Allen movie once – and I also got to use my whole hard-earned French vocabulary while I was there: Bonjour, croissant, s’il vous plait. 

Nope, no touristy stuff for me…

Instead, I had a “real” “authentic” “experience” in “off-the-beaten-track” Paris.

Who knew you could get it just four blocks from the Louvre?

Pat yourself on the back,’cause now you’re a traveller…

Ok, I take that last thing back.

Actually, you’re just annoying and pretentious.

Let’s not kid ourselves.

You’re not “living like a local” on your 5-day jaunt to Paris or your two weeks in Mexico.

As a guy who’s lived abroad for over a decade, I’d say I wasn’t really “living like a local” for at least my first two or three  years . (And I might not be even now, if we’re gonna be honest.)

There are a lot of things that locals do you’re not going to find out about just by taking a walk. Some of it will bother you , at least at first. Some will just be incomprehensible.

If you think you’re “blending in” after 20 minutes studying French on the plane and two or three trips on local public transport, I’ve got news for you…

You’re just delusional.

In researching this article I read a dozen others and found that most of what’s written about this debate is mind-numbingly stupid.

However, the Guardian (as usual) came through with this little gem, in an article about the efforts of some companies to rebrand tourism: “Un-tourism relies upon exclusivity; it is all about preventing other people travelling in order that you might legitimise your own travels.”

Tourism is cool when you do it.

‘Cause you’re sleeping in a yurt – whatever that is – with no wifi. You’re obviously lightyears ahead of a guy like me, who values showering and being connected.

What’s not cool is when some lame, badly-dressed middle-aged folks want to do the same, and clutter up your photos in the process. 

What’s not cool is those morons in their tour groups, having monuments explained to them by a guide… I mean, who cares about monuments? History is over, man…

Get with the times.

“Travellers” want to go to faraway places and not see others like them standing around and taking selfies. They want to keep up the illusion that they’re unique little snowflakes who are the only ones ever to have an idea like “OMG let’s go to Paris!”

And for that, they need to shame others who go to the same places but seem, somehow, different.

The hypocrisy of this seems lost on them.

So get one thing straight…

Travel is not a competition

Here’s the thing, young traveller…

I hate to break it to you.

But you’re not gonna get some gold medal while lying on your deathbed for having visited the most countries.

In almost anything you can do, the experience is its own reward, and travel is just one experience out of many.

Call yourself whatever you want – tourist or traveller.

Then get on that plane. Or don’t. Life goes on, either way.

You can travel off or on the beaten track, and I’m not gonna judge you…

‘Cause I don’t think the beaten track is all that bad, a lot of the time. Some things are popular because they’re actually worthwhile.

And while I’d love to hit some less-known spots when I travel, it’s usually impractical for various reasons: no transport, not a lot of infrastructure. No easy way for a tourist (ahem!) like myself to arrive or find somewhere to eat or sleep either.

(Looking at you, Serranía de Cuenca …)

I guess if I were rich and had all the free time in the world, I could do more to get off the beaten whatever.

But as it is, it’s easier – and sometimes cheaper – to hit the places everyone else goes.

So be careful, because…

You might just be a travel douche

“Chicago style? Please! I only eat pizza in Naples.”

“Everything in India is like, so spiritual, y’know? You’d never get the true meaning of enlightenment like I have without spending a long weekend on an ashram in Kerala.”

“People in poor counties are just so happy. Why when I was in the slum tourism across Latin America, you wouldn’t believe the fun those kids had with a soccer ball and a patch of dirt. They’re really better off than we are…”

If you find yourself saying any of those things, take note: you might be a travel douche.

And according to the competent authorities, there is no known cure.

So keep it real out there, kids.

You can be a tourist or a traveller.

But realize that nobody else cares that much.

Just go somewhere. And while you’re at it, have fun.

Mr Chorizo.

P.S. I should mention that in my attempt to discover whether or not anyone else had used the term “travel douche” to describe this sort of thing, I found that the industry of travel-sized douchebags is alive and booming. Good to know.

P.P.S. Want a real intercultural experience? Try dating a Spanish girl … That’s when the real fun begins.

P.P.P.S. I wrote this article sort of a long time ago, and never published it. In the meantime, I’ve moved to Barcelona , and I’m right in the middle of mass tourism. It’s right outside my door… But it doesn’t yet seem to be ruining my life. Anyway, what do you think? Tourist or traveller? What’s the difference?

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Once more right on the button, Mr C. I feel kind of superior, living like a local, when drifts of tourists get in my way when I’m rushing to the bus stop, but after 4 years in Madrid then Cádiz, the reality of adapting and ’embedding’ is beginning to bite. And the ‘croissant and Moleskine’ fits me sometimes too. I quite like it though, now and then. That bridge in Cuenca is very scary. I had to walk across it very fast. Thanks again, and all the best in Barcelona.

Thanks Julie! Yeah, integrating into a culture isn’t as easy as just buying some new clothes… As recently as last week, someone heard my C2 level of Spanish and said, “Ah, so you speak a little bit of Spanish too?” 🙂

I enjoyed your perspective, didn’t know there was a debate or age was involved…for me a tourist is the one on the cruise, or who stays at the all inclusive resorts, or the tour group…never to even begin to attempt to hang out with the natives. One who travels, well selfies have nothing to do with that, and I don’t know if you are aware, but selfies are not age nor country specific, have you seen the Asians when they travel? Selfie sticks around…no the Traveller, just goes when the urge hits them,they hang out with the locals, not one of them, but with them… Anthony Bourdain was a Traveller..Rick Steves is a tourist, and nothing wrong with either approach. It’s two different approaches to something wonderful, seeing the world and having new experiences and creating memories. Without calling names or disparaging others. As for expat or immigrant, well it’s quite simple…racism. the country and colour of your skin determine what you’re called. To say otherwise, is a flat out lie.

And here I thought “traveller” was still just a euphemism for drifter. Silly me.

Thanks for the laughs.

Great post! Very reflexive on what is really to travel and experience different cultures. I have never stop to think how ridiculous those travel group tours look like. The best experience you can get is to blend in with the people and experience what it would be everyday life in the place you are visiting. Yeah visiting historic landmarks is cool, but more interesting is getting to know the people around, because after all, is the people who makes the place different not the inert monuments that have been around for hundreds of years.

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Travelers vs. Travellers: The Great Spelling Debate Explained

Travelers vs. Travellers – Are you a travel enthusiast who’s always confused about how to spell the word “traveler”? Do you find yourself constantly switching between “traveler” and “traveller”? Well, you’re not alone! The great spelling debate of “traveler” versus “traveller” has been ongoing for decades, and it seems like there’s no clear winner. While both spellings are technically correct, there are some subtle differences in their usage and meaning. As a copywriter and digital marketer, I have come across this spelling conundrum numerous times, and I understand the importance of getting it right. In this article, I will explain the origins of the two spellings, their differences in usage and meaning, and provide some tips on how to choose the right spelling for your content. So, whether you’re a seasoned travel writer or just starting out, read on to unravel the mystery of the great spelling debate of “traveler” versus “traveller.” Are you looking for Travelers Insurance company? Get a Travelers Insurance quote here?

Travelers or Travellers – The History Behind the Two Spellings

The word “traveler” has been used in the English language since the 14th century. It comes from the Old French word “travaillour,” which means “one who works hard.” The word “traveller,” on the other hand, is a more recent addition to the English language and was first recorded in the 1590s. It comes from the Middle English word “travaillen,” which means “to toil or labor.”

Travelers vs. Travellers – the two spellings have coexisted in the English language for centuries, with each spelling being used interchangeably in different regions of the world. However, the spelling “traveller” is more commonly used in British English, while “traveler” is more commonly used in American English.

Regional Preferences – Where Each Spelling is More Commonly Used

As mentioned earlier, “traveler” and “traveller” are used interchangeably in many regions of the world. However, there are some regions where one spelling is more commonly used than the other.

In American English, “traveler” is the preferred spelling. This is the case in Canada as well. In Australia and New Zealand, “traveller” is the preferred spelling. In the United Kingdom and other parts of the Commonwealth, “traveller” is the more commonly used spelling.

It’s worth noting that even within these regions, there can be variations in spelling depending on the context. For example, in British English, “traveler” is used when referring to modes of transportation, such as “train traveler” or “air traveler.” Click here for the dictionary.

American English vs. British English – How They Differ in Spelling

The differences between American and British English spellings are well-documented, and the spelling of “travelers” vs. “travellers” is no exception. As mentioned earlier, “traveler” is the preferred spelling in American English, while “traveller” is the preferred spelling in British English.

In addition to travelers vs. travellers, there are many other words that are spelled differently in American and British English. For example, “color” is spelled “colour” in British English, and “center” is spelled “centre.” These differences in spelling can sometimes cause confusion, especially when writing for an international audience.

The Impact of Technology on Spelling

The rise of technology and the internet has had a significant impact on the way we spell words. With the advent of spell-checkers and autocorrect, it’s easier than ever to ensure that your spelling is correct.

However, these tools are not foolproof and can sometimes lead to errors. For example, if you’re using a spell-checker that is set to American English, it may automatically change “traveller” to “traveler” without you even realizing it.

It’s always important to double-check your spelling, especially when writing for an international audience. You don’t want to inadvertently use the wrong spelling and alienate your readers.

Travelers or Travellers – Which Spelling Should You Use?

So, which spelling should you use? The answer depends on your audience. If you’re writing for an American audience, “traveler” is the preferred spelling. If you’re writing for a British audience, “traveller” is the preferred spelling.

If you’re writing for an international audience, it’s best to choose one spelling and stick with it throughout your content. This will help to avoid confusion and ensure that your content is consistent.

How to Handle the Spelling When Writing for an International Audience

When writing for an international audience, it’s essential to be mindful of the spelling differences between American and British English. Here are some tips to help you handle the spelling when writing for an international audience:

— Select one spelling and stick with it throughout your content.

— If you’re unsure which spelling to use, do some research on your target audience to determine which spelling is more commonly used.

— If you’re using a spell-checker, make sure it’s set to the correct language.

— Double-check your spelling before publishing your content.

Other Spelling Debates in English Language

The spelling of “traveler” versus “traveller” is just one example of the many spelling debates in the English language. Here are some other examples:

— “Program” versus “programme”

— “Theater” versus “theatre”

— “Color” versus “colour”

— “Center” versus “centre”

These spelling differences can be confusing, but it’s important to remember that both spellings are technically correct. The key is to choose one spelling and stick with it throughout your content.

Travelers or Travellers Fun Facts and Trivia

— The word “traveler” is the preferred spelling in the United States, but it’s also used in British English when referring to modes of transportation, such as “train traveler” or “air traveler.”

— The word “traveller” is the preferred spelling in the United Kingdom and other parts of the Commonwealth, but it’s also used in American English, especially in formal writing.

— The spelling of “traveler” versus “traveller” is just one example of the many spelling differences between American and British English.

— The rise of technology and the internet has made it easier than ever to ensure that your spelling is correct, but it’s significant to double-check your spelling, especially when writing for an international audience.

Conclusion – The Verdict on Which Spelling to Use

So, which spelling should you use – “traveler” or “traveller”? The answer depends on your audience. If you’re writing for an American audience, “traveler” is the preferred spelling. If you’re writing for a British audience, “traveller” is the preferred spelling.

Ultimately, both spellings are technically correct, and it’s up to you to select which one to use. The key is to be consistent and to double-check your spelling before publishing your content. By following these tips, you can navigate the great spelling debate of “traveler” versus “traveller” with confidence and ease. Click here for a Travelers Insurance review.

Difference Between | Descriptive Analysis and Comparisons

Search form, difference between traveller and tourist.

Key Difference: According to expert travellers, a traveller is a type of person that likes to live in the now, he likes to experience life as it passes by and has a whole different outlook on life. On the other hand, a tourist is usually short on time. He has a specific amount of time in which he has to plan his whole trip.

However, in today’s world the words have come to become significantly different from each other. Each word has garnered a significance that is now attached with the word. A tourist may be called a traveller without any problems, but a traveller will be gravely insulted if they were called a tourist.

A tourist and traveller differ in many aspects including likes, dislikes, travelling habits, places they like to visit, the way their experience a place, the people they like to talk to, etc.

According to expert travellers, a traveller is a type of person that likes to live in the now, he likes to experience life as it passes by and has a whole different outlook on life. They prefer to travel light, and live each place that they visit. They do not like to visit the tourist places, but rather to take the beaten path and find small places with great cultural significance. They prefer to travel in small groups of usually one or two people and prefer to walk or take the local transport.

They can usually be seen carrying a translation booklet in order to be able to talk in the local language. They prefer to shop on the street and will bargain with the shopkeepers, just like the locals. They love to try the local cuisine by eating on the street and love to listen and share stories with the locals about their culture. The travellers usually take their time to get to know a place and do not rust. They can sometimes spend months in a country, without having any inclination to leave. The traveller really gets to know and understand the root of the country they are in.

Tourists are usually people that prefer to interact very little with the locals and do not have the time to sit and converse with them. They do not listen to their stories and prefer to share very little about themselves. They are usually seen taking photos in almost every tourist spot in random poses. They also prefer to speak in English and do not like to converse in the local language. Tourists usually prefer to reside in hotels that have pools and spas, which allow them very little interaction with the locals and their housing manners.

Tourists and travellers are very different when it comes to interacting with a country. However, each are best suited to a particular type of person. A tourist has very limited time to incorporate all the things of a country into a small time consumed package and hence he must cover all the tourist places. On the other hand, a traveller has ample amount of time and money in order to admire the city at their own leisure. Being a traveller or a tourist can sometimes also depend on the country and its people.

Comparison between Traveller and Tourist:

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Definition of traveller noun from the Oxford Advanced Learner's Dictionary

• She is a frequent traveller to Belgium.
• leisure/business travellers
• These hotels are becoming popular with the discerning traveller.
• I'm not a great traveller. I'm happiest staying at home.
• Independent travellers often steer clear of the most touristy spots.
• Local tribesmen earn their living guiding travellers across the mountains.
• Stations can be dangerous places for the unwary traveller.
• hotels that cater to business travellers
• A friendly welcome awaits the weary traveller.
• Seasoned travellers know which places to avoid.
• The new travel card is very popular with rail travellers.
• Travellers might stop at the village but they rarely stay.
• His travel books have given pleasure to generations of armchair travellers (= people who prefer to read about travelling rather than travel themselves) .

Join our community to access the latest language learning and assessment tips from Oxford University Press!

• New Age travellers
• There was a travellers' site just outside the village.
• There is a programme to ensure access to education for traveller children.
• A representative from the travellers' community met with council leaders yesterday.

Other results

Nearby words.

Is it ‘traveling’ or ‘travelling’?

What to Know When it comes to spelling the forms of the verb travel , traveled and traveling are more common in the U.S., and travelled and travelling are dominant everywhere else.

Spelling is typically clear-cut in modern English: forty unfailingly betrays four ; the sweet treat after dinner is spelled dessert , not desert .

But some words have two forms that appear often enough in edited text to make it clear that something else is going on. And so it is with forms of the verb travel : traveled and travelled , and traveling and travelling .

It might have a different spelling wherever you're going.

One or Two L 's?

If you look at where the single l forms originate and where the double l forms originate a pattern emerges: in the United States, traveled and traveling predominate, and everywhere else travelled and travelling are preferred.

The reason mostly comes down to one man we at Merriam-Webster hold especially dear: Noah Webster. Our lexicographical father (brothers George and Charles Merriam bought the rights to Noah Webster’s 1841 dictionary after Webster died) was a great believer in spelling reform and wanted English spelling to make more sense—and if the English of his homeland had more logic to it than its British parent, so much the better. He decided that travel needed only one l in its past and present participle forms.

Webster’s logic is the reason behind the spelling of canceled and cancelled as well: in the U.S., they have just one l , but elsewhere two l ’s are the norm.

American English Words that Use 2 L 's

Webster didn’t think all double l ’s needed to be reduced to one, however: in cases in which the accent, or emphasis, is on the syllable with the l , two l ’s are preserved: expelled and expelling ; controlled and controlling ; patrolled and patrolling .

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Aurora Tourism in Iceland: You Can Seek, but You May Not Find

The country markets itself as a destination to see the northern lights — especially this year, which is a peak time for solar activity. But they can be elusive, as one writer recently found.

In Reykjavík, Iceland, aurora borealis tourism is a booming business. Hopeful tourists board buses to head out into the night in search of the northern lights. Credit... Sigga Ella for The New York Times

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By Amelia Nierenberg

Amelia Nierenberg spent four nights searching for the northern lights in Iceland.

• March 25, 2024 Updated 5:48 p.m. ET

From the outside, it may seem like the northern lights dance across Iceland’s skies each night. On Icelandair ads, planes fly across shimmering curtains in the sky. On social media, travelers gaze at the green bands above them . The lights are even on some recycling bins in Reykjavík, the capital: “Keep Iceland Clean.”

In the past decade or so, an aurora borealis industrial complex has boomed in Iceland. Many rent a car and go out on their own, but there are northern lights big bus tours and northern lights minibus tours and northern lights Super Jeep tours . There are private guides and boat cruises . There’s an observatory base camp . There’s even a museum .

But the lights can be elusive.

“Tourists sometimes expect, like, ‘At what time do you turn them on?’” said Björn Saevar Einarsson, a forecaster at Iceland’s meteorological office , chuckling. “Like we have a switch in the back room.”

This year, the letdowns are especially intense.

The northern lights, which are also called the aurora borealis, are most visible when there are solar flares, which are big eruptions on the sun that send charged particles toward Earth. This year, the sun is approaching the peak of its 11-year cycle of activity , which some assume means that the displays could peak, too.

But the enhanced solar activity doesn’t necessarily mean the northern lights will be brighter or more frequent, scientists wearily explain. Instead, they mostly mean that the lights can be seen farther south than usual: In recent months, they have been visible in Arizona , Missouri and southern England .

That doesn’t mean much for Iceland.

In fact, Icelanders and scientists said, this winter is nothing special. Sometimes, the lights are there. Sometimes, they aren’t. Just like always.

Hunting the lights

But nothing special, with the northern lights, is still very special. And so tourists keep coming .

Last month, I joined the fray. For four nights, I looked for telltale sky shimmers in and around Reykjavík.

I booked my tickets riding high — this was the best year yet, right? But as I learned more, and as my flight neared, my hopes ebbed. Scientists and tour leaders gently told me that the skies were cloudy and the solar activity seemed quiet.

“Just to let you know the forecast doesn’t look too good” Inga Dís Richter, the chief commercial officer at Icelandia , a tourism agency, wrote in an email two days before I planned to take a minibus trip with Reykjavik Excursions , one of its tour operators.

“But,” she added, “this can change.”

To find the lights, guides and travelers often rely on aurora forecasts, which overlay cloud cover and solar activity. They check them constantly, like a bride with an outdoor wedding in mid-April.

Some of the forecasts are free, like the aurora forecast run by Iceland’s meteorological office or Iceland at Night , which includes space weather. (Some are not — Aurora Forecast , which costs $12.99 a year, sends alerts.) Many people also turn to Facebook pages , where enthusiasts hungrily swap sightings.

Luck, though, is everything.

“There’s only one thing less predictable with the northern lights, and that’s the Arctic weather,” said John Mason, a global expert on the northern lights. “An aurora forecast is barely worth the paper that it’s written on.”

The guides work hard to explain the science, and set expectations. Most companies offer a free rebooking option if the lights do not show.

On my first night of aurora stalking, despite Ms. Richter’s warnings, I joined an expectant group on the Reykjavík Excursions minibus. For $88, I got a seat on the 19-person bus, which left the city’s central bus station at 9:30 p.m.

Over the next three to four hours, we would drive through the Icelandic night together. I’d either see something astonishing with these strangers — the sky, banded with light — or shiver with them shoulder-to-shoulder, awkward in the cold.

As we pulled onto the road, Gudjon Gunnarsson, the guide, set the mood early. “We are going hunting for the lights,” he said, emphasizing the word “hunting,” “similar to going out fishing in a lake.”

He drove for about 45 minutes, letting Reykjavík’s glow fade behind us. The city has about 140,000 people, and no real skyscrapers, so there’s limited light pollution. Although the northern lights can appear over the city, it’s best to see them in total darkness.

Then he paused and consulted with another guide.

“It is too cloudy here,” he told his flock. “So we will keep driving.”

But as we kept driving, clouds turned to a dense fog, so thick that the moon all but disappeared.

Mr. Gunnarsson turned off the main highway about an hour after we left Reykjavík. He parked in a parking lot. Or maybe it was a side street? The darkness was so deep that I could only make out the moonlight on the ocean, and only then after my eyes adjusted.

We disembarked and stood dutifully beside him, staring up at the sky. Then, one woman pointed toward Reykjavík. Were those the lights? (No. That was light pollution.)

Christof Reinhard, 65, who owns a medical laser company and was visiting with his family from Paris, mused that our search was a little bit like a safari. Sure, the desert is amazing, but it’s much better with lions. Or, maybe, was this more like a whale watch?

“Instead of a boat,” he said, “you have a bus.”

Mr. Gunnarsson watched the group stomp their feet and bend into the wind. Fifteen minutes. Then, half an hour. The clouds hung thick above. “There’s nothing happening here, as you can see,” he finally said to relieved chuckles. “It’s one of those nights where you just have to give up.”

Tourists can get mad, Mr. Gunnarsson and other guides said. It’s rare, but it does happen.

“It’s the trip that has our worst reviews,” said Eric Larimer, the digital marketing manager for Gray Line Iceland , a day tour and airport transport company.

A wake-up call for the aurora

For some, the joy is in the search, even if there is no find. A few focus on astronomy, often opting to stay at Hotel Rangá , which is just off the main ring road (Route 1) near Iceland’s south coast.

The hotel looks unassuming — low-slung and wooden — but it’s one of the most famous in Iceland. (The Kardashians stayed there . So did the Real Housewives of Orange County .) A standard room costs more than $300, depending on the season.

But Rangá doesn’t just cater to celebrities. It also draws astronomy buffs, enticed by its “aurora wake-up call” service and its observatory, which has state-of-the-art telescopes.

“One thing is to sell them,” said Fridrik Pálsson, the hotel’s owner, speaking of the northern lights. “Another thing is to deliver them.”

About 20 years ago, before the northern lights industry took off, he delegated the night security guard to monitor the sky. The guard pokes his head out every few minutes to look for the telltale flicker. If he sees the lights, he alerts the guests.

The service aims to address one of the main issues with hunting for the northern lights: They are usually only visible on winter nights, when it is very cold, very windy and very late.

“To be a good northern lights observer, you need the constitution of an insomniac polar bear,” Dr. Mason said.

My room phone, alas, stayed silent. But I did dream about the lights — great Wonka colors swirling, strangely, behind the Chrysler Building.

Mr. Pálsson built the observatory, too. Even if the lights didn’t show up, he figured, the stars are still magnificent — and, for city dwellers, also rare. The hotel contracts astronomers to work the telescopes and explain the stars to guests.On my second night in Iceland, as twilight slipped below happy-hour skies, I crunched across the snow to the observatory with Saevar Helgi Bragason, an Icelandic science communicator who leads the astronomy program.

He bent into a toddler-size telescope, focusing it on the moon’s craters. They looked clearer than the hotel, just a short walk away. It was too early for the lights, he said. And that evening seemed too cloudy (on Earth) and too quiet (on the sun).

Mr. Bragason joked that the lights can get in his way — they create a mist over the stars he really wants to see. But tourists often come specifically to see them. And sometimes, he said, as they wait impatiently, they can miss the real wonder.

“You’re left with these beautiful skies above you,” he said. “Basically, literally, another universe opens up.”

Creating a lights season

Hotel Rangá was a pioneer in Iceland’s northern lights tourism industry: About two decades ago, people came to Iceland for the long summer days, and left as daylight slipped farther south.

“I found it rather stupid in the beginning,” admitted Mr. Pálsson, the owner of Rangá, speaking of northern lights tourism.

But spreading tourism throughout the year made sense. Partly, that was an environmental concern. The tourists would crowd the country’s extraordinary natural sites over just a few months. It was also economic. When the visitors left Iceland, tourism jobs would ebb with the sunlight.

So the northern lights, which are reliably visible from September to March, became the backbone of the country’s winter branding, said Sveinn Birkir Björnsson, the marketing and communications director at Business Iceland , which promotes the country.

“To be able to sell this product of cold and darkness, you have to have something to offer,” he said.

Now, even though June, July and August are the busiest months, tourism has evened out over the seasons. In 2023, there were about 1.1 million international visitors to Iceland during the aurora months, based on departures from Keflavík Airport, according to data from Iceland’s tourist board . From April to August, there were about 1.1 million, too.

About a decade earlier , when tourism overall to Iceland was lower, there were about 336,000 departures from the main airport in colder months, and about 446,000 in the spring and summer.

The winter travelers are drawn by the lights — and the hot springs, glaciers and icy waterfalls. It’s also cheaper than the summer season.

Some try to visit volcanoes , but the country recently warned tourists to avoid the lava flows — Iceland is living in an unusually active period of seismic activity . In January, lava flowed into a small town and last week a volcano erupted with just 40 minutes’ notice near the Blue Lagoon thermal springs, one of the country’s biggest attractions.

The final attempts

Near midnight on my last night, a Sunday, I drove to the Grótta Lighthouse , a popular spot on the outskirts of Reykjavík.

A few die-hard experts had warned me off — many tourists go there because it’s darker than most of Reykjavík, but then don’t think to turn off their headlights. It was also raining, greatly diminishing my chances of seeing the lights.

But I only had three hours before I had to leave to make my predawn flight. I felt a little desperate, a little dazed. I parked, and approached two people who were sitting in the rain on a wet wall, looking at the water in the darkness. I climbed over seaweed, and introduced myself. What would it mean to them, I asked, if the lights suddenly appeared?

“It’d be a little bit like the cherry on top,” said Catherine Norburn, 29, who was visiting from England.

She and her husband were set to fly out the next morning. They had not yet seen the lights.

“We don’t have high hopes,” said her husband, Reece Norburn, 29, “but it’s now or never.”

We didn’t see the lights. And I didn’t see them later, even after pulling off the highway halfway between Reykjavík and the airport at 3:30 a.m., half convinced by a shimmery cloud.

But I did spend more time looking up at the sky. And it’s a marvel.

In New York City, where I live, the night sky blooms orange-mauve. In Iceland, the nighttime darkness is just that — darkness. Clouds roll, breaking the deep blue. Stars actually shine. Northern lights or no northern lights, it was still cosmically beautiful.

Amelia Nierenberg writes the Asia Pacific Morning Briefing , a global newsletter. More about Amelia Nierenberg

Open Up Your World

Considering a trip, or just some armchair traveling here are some ideas..

Italy :  Spend 36 hours in Florence , seeking out its lesser-known pockets.

Southern California :  Skip the freeways to explore the back roads between Los Angeles and Los Olivos , a 100-mile route that meanders through mountains, canyons and star-studded enclaves.

Mongolia : Some young people, searching for less curated travel experiences, are flocking to the open spaces of this East Asian nation .

Romania :  Timisoara  may be the most noteworthy city you’ve probably never heard of , offering just enough for visitors to fill two or three days.

India: A writer fulfilled a lifelong dream of visiting Darjeeling, in the Himalayan foothills , taking in the tea gardens and riding a train through the hills.

52 Places:  Why do we travel? For food, culture, adventure, natural beauty? Our 2024 list has all those elements, and more .

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