We have all been tourists in other states and maybe other countries. As much as we would like to fit in with the rest of the inhabitants in that area, we almost always find ourselves standing out, be it the way we act or wear or maybe even speak, but those are nothing to be ashamed of.
The other day I was at a Chinese restaurant in International Drive in Orlando and I could not help but notice the influx of tourists especially during summertime when the theme parks and outlet malls are bustling with them. While these are not meant to stereotype in any way, shape, or form, here are major telltale signs you’re a tourist in Florida:
1. You always carry a selfie stick.
While some theme parks ban them, others let you use them freely. Selfie sticks are quite a nuisance though, so you might have to rent a locker if you want to go on those big rides. You simply feel naked without it.
2. You’re not prepared for all the traffic, especially in I-4.
Whether you are riding via shuttle or Uber, you become irked by all that traffic, especially early in the day or late at night when you want to venture into places like City Walk or Disney Springs. If you are on a road trip or rented a car, it does not seem so bad if you love to sightsee. Downtown Orlando is one of the best places to see at night. Be careful not to wander late at night alone though.
3. You literally buy everything at the gift shop.
You just want to buy everything with your name on it: mugs, keychains, rings, etc. Unfortunately for me, I never have one with my name on it, because my name is unique. When you are supposed to be saving for food and essentials, but you end up spending your cash at those gift shops, purchasing the most ridiculous items. But hey, at least you got a souvenir.
4. You travel in packs and always have a map/GPS ready.
You cannot seem to get over the fact that you might be lost if it were not for the friends or family traveling with you. There are, however, different landmarks you can pinpoint for directions. But the biggest trouble would have to be not being able to remember where you parked especially at Disney World, late at night and having to hit that panic button on your car key.
5. You carry your luggage as if it’s your lifeline.
You treat your luggage like it is your mobile home. You do not ever want to lose sight of it. You guard it like your own life depends on it. You basically carry it around with you and make sure it gets where it needs to be, whether you are checking in at a hotel or staying with your relatives or friends.
6. You’re unaware of how much everything seems too pricey, even the gas.
As a Floridian myself, I notice every rise and drop in gas prices, especially in big cities like Orlando. You might want to gas up your car before you come to Florida. If you are a tourist, you do not really have to worry about that, because you might have flown here internationally.
7. You post every moment on social media.
You just want to show off to your friends back home that you checked off Florida on your bucket list. That is a major feat, especially if you drove from all the way north or west or flew from a different country. If you are from out of state and go to college here, consider yourself a tourist if most of the signs in this listicle match you. If not, then pat yourself in the back, you’re officially a Floridian.
8. You feel like a celebrity having the time of your life.
You probably jaywalked from all the excitement. Now I know that jaywalking is illegal in some places in Florida. That’s why you always need to use the pedestrian crosswalk. You feel like a celebrity dressing up everywhere you go. Do not forget to use sunscreen or bring an umbrella, because Florida weather can get quite bipolar.
Above all, you know you are a tourist when you start glooming during your last day here. Do not fret. Florida will welcome you back and you will make new memories with the people you meet and the places you encounter.
