Tourists Don't Flaunt It
Photo Credit: Online pic.Tourism is for people with well-paying jobs and millionaires. The rest of the world visits grandma or cousins that live in another state, during the summer.
The new tourism is ‘be careful tourism.’ It’s 2024. Tourism spots have changed because of economic circumstances that affect how locals live. Beaches for example. That white sand you enjoyed on your honeymoon ten years ago might not be as idyllic as it used to be. There might be bottles and cigarette stubs. There might also be individuals on the prowl, selling ‘fun’ for dollars. On the whole, locals that used to smile wide like half an orange, have faces that look like tripe, in 2024.
But how do they know I’m a tourist? They know, believe me. They know although they dress like you: ripped jeans, denim shorts and cropped T-shirts. But they don’t carry backpacks. You do. It’s a complete give-away. Manner of dress is the biggest challenge for ‘be careful tourism.’ How do you blend in, dress like a local when China makes the same leggings and fishing pants for the whole world? The rule of thumb for women is to go long, long dresses and skirts. Tie scarves around your head like local women. It’s your body I know, but it’s part of ‘be careful tourism.’
Asking questions. Tourists go to other countries for old ruins, for festivals like CARIBANA in Toronto, Prince Harry and Meghan’s wedding or for the sun and surf. Other tourists are genuinely interested in the country’s history and local produce, let’s say cashews. Avoid questions because you might ask the wrong questions, innocently. You really don’t want the person guiding you around the country to get mad now, do you?
Best advice is stay home. Have you ever been to Newfoundland or Prince Edward Island? Charity begins at work, so does tourism.
Nonqaba waka Msimang
Executive Blogger
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