Agree. With everyone in this world having their “own” preferences, intolerances, and systems in life, it is imperative that independent travelers learn to oftentimes “bend” in their life’s choices and understand what the local culture brings to them. And if it REALLY is a medical issue, Laughter above all makes everyone understand just a little bit more…
courtesy? absolutely!
this goes hand in hand with humility
~ remember always that when you’re the visitor it is polite to observe your hosts’ rules/customs …
We better understand ourselves and others when we leave home to experience the world firsthand. Independent travel is a departure from routine -- an opportunity to learn, have fun and embrace life in novel environments and cultures.
-Indie travel is about replacing broad expectations with nuanced realities.
-Indie travel is about seeing yourself in the context of a rich and complex world.
-Indie travel is about defining your values, exploring your beliefs, and crafting your own meaning for life.
Indie travelers value...
-Options over possessions
-Dynamic possibilities over static goals
-Discovery over escape
-Interactions over transactions
-Local information over received information
-First-hand experience over expert opinions
-Mental and spiritual growth as much as physical adventure
-Private transformation over social status and bragging rights
-The present moment over dreams of past and future
Indie travelers do...
-Pack light and keep things simple
-Adapt as they go rather than micromanage in advance
-Practice caution, but not paranoia
-Know how to slow down and enjoy an experience
-Seek pleasure in simple moments and details
-Make meaningful connections and informed decisions
-Learn the economic, political and environmental context of their host culture
-Emphasize listening more than talking
-Practice courtesy, patience, humility, and good humor
-Seek to understand -- not judge or romanticize -- other cultures
-Give back to the local economy
-Share what they’ve learned with others
Agree. With everyone in this world having their “own” preferences, intolerances, and systems in life, it is imperative that independent travelers learn to oftentimes “bend” in their life’s choices and understand what the local culture brings to them. And if it REALLY is a medical issue, Laughter above all makes everyone understand just a little bit more…
I have found a smile or a laugh has given me responses that lead to far more enjoyment of my journeys and the people I interact with.
Always.
Spending an extra half hour with a taxi driver can prove to be invaluable. And they usually turn off the meter while you just sit and talk.
courtesy? absolutely!
this goes hand in hand with humility
~ remember always that when you’re the visitor it is polite to observe your hosts’ rules/customs …