I've been a lot of places and done a lot of things during the short amount of time I have been given on this planet. From my chilly Alaskan nights, to my sunny mornings spent in Germany, and my countless in betweens, I have lived a wonderful and exciting life. The advice I have to share from my wanderlust heart: playing tourist is the way to go.
1. You get to wear a fanny pack
That's right, the 90s called, and yes, they want their fanny pack back. But they're not going to get it back because you're rockin' it! They're hands free, convenient, and totally hiptastic! Okay, that might be a little overkill, but they are pretty great. Best of all, your fanny will tell all of the locals that you are a tourist without ever having to open your mouth!
2. You live in athletic wear
Living life as a tourist means realizing that you will never see the same people again in your lifetime. With that being said, you won't have to worry about the line, "dress to impress." Instead baggy T's and athletic shorts become your go to outfit. In this wear, you will be ready and comfortable for any situation thrown your direction!
3. You get away with breaking the rules
I'm sorry, I didn't know this was a private look out. I didn't know I couldn't be here after dark. I didn't realize this isn't the way in. I'm not from here. I'm a tourist. As a tourist, you never get into trouble for your "ignorance." Also something I know as intentional rebellion.
4. Your answer is always yes
Would I like to go to see the locals beach? Yes! Do I want to try eating seaweed? Of course! Want to try surfing? Surf's up, man! As a tourist, you never say no. A new opportunity means a new adventure. There is nothing too tacky, and nothing too edgy. The experiences are endless!
5. You get free stuff
Along with never being able to say no, you will find yourself in a lot of different situations. Yes, I would love to enter your drawing! Yes, I would love the opportunity to win something from your store! If you're as lucky as me, you might just be holding the winning ticket!
6. The game is always on
Because you will likely never see these people again, you can have the courage to hit on anyone. Like really, anyone. That tan, fit lifeguard was totally staring at you when you were tumbling through that wave. Give him your number. That handsome, well-dressed cashier totally brushed your hand when he gave you your receipt. Ask him what he is doing later. Got mixed signals? That's okay. You're a tourist.
7. Endless selfies
There is no shame in the amount of selfies you take. You just want to show off to all of your friends back home. With that being said, even the bathroom of that really cool restaurant you are at right now is a totally acceptable selfie spot.
8. You have more fun
You will have way more fun than anyone around you. Nothing is off limits. There are no cares. There are no time tables. The only thing that determines what you do next is whether or not what you are doing will bring you joy.
9. I've done that before becomes your catch phrase
If you have played the tourist game right, then you have done absolutely anything and everything you could get your hands on. Taken an air boat ride on an alligator hunt? Oh yeah. Hiked up a mountain to the mouth of a glacier? Been there. Thrift shopped in downtown Chicago? I've done that. Being a true tourist means you will have enough stories to last a lifetime. Or at least enough to last until your next vacation.
