Everyone's always talking about how they want to go to the beach or any other touristy destination for vacations and getaways. However, I don't think we ever consider what it's like to live in one of these places. If you're like me and live in a tourist destination, here are a few things we can relate to.
1. Seasonal traffic.
For every vacation spot, there's an ideal time for tourists to come, and when they come, they come in herds. The first telltale sign of the incoming waves of tourists is when you wake up one day, decide to go to the store and find yourself in an unnecessary amount of traffic.
2. The off-season.
Once the tourists leave, if you're home only has one major tourist season, the off season begins. Everything gets quiet again and peaceful.
3. Closed businesses.
While the peacefulness is nice, a downfall to the off-season is that many of the best restaurants and businesses close as soon as the tourists leave.
4. Everything being crowded.
We've all been there, where you just want some milk and bread at the grocery store, but there are tourists and visitors everywhere. So, you wait in line for a few minutes longer than you're used to.
5. Having everyone wish they lived there too.
While it's nice of you to say and while this town/area is fun during a vacation, it's not always the same when you're living there. When on vacation, most of your time is spent doing fun activities and relaxing. That's not the case for many locals. However, we do enjoy the perks from time to time.
6. Enjoying the vacation aspect.
Even though we're busy, it is nice to be able to enjoy little vacations on days off and weekends!
7. Everyone knowing everyone.
If a majority of your population only comes for the vacation season, you get to know the people who do stick around all year pretty well. This can be a good thing or a bad thing, depending on who's around!
8. Amazing food.
Another perk is that all the food and restaurants are amazing, as they themselves can draw in large crowds.
9. Meeting people from around the world.
Wherever you go, you'll hear someone speaking another language or meet someone from another country or simply another area! It's fun to make new connections and experience different cultures, all in your own town.
10. Wanting chain-restaurants.
While not all vacations spots have this issue, my town does. All a girl wants is some Five Guys or Panera Bread, is that too much to ask?
11. Going to all the same places.
When you know all the local hot spots, you end up going to the same few places at specific times in order to beat the tourist crowds!
