Thanks 🙂 I do think of myself that way. But I’m saying that even as a “traveler” there are still situations I’m in sometimes where I’m very much the tourist. And that’s just fine!

I think its possible to acknowledge that there is a difference without being rude or condescending towards either one! I just wonder where the line is drawn.

Hey Cat, I agree! I applaud anyone who takes the time to go exploring the world (whether it’s across the globe or the next city over). Like I said to another commenter, I think part of the problem is that some people associate negative connotations with “tourist” and others don’t, which can lead to some friction!

I love this… especially the part about bringing home souvenirs/bringing home stories/never coming home.

Thanks 🙂 If I had to pick one of the two, I would say traveler.

Interesting distinction. I think maybe the problem is that some people see it as a negative label and others don’t, so you can potentially offend someone unintentionally!

One of my spiritual teachers talks about the difference between tourists–see the sight, buy a souvenir, don’t get hurt, bring home pictures. And Travelers: have a plan, yes to seeing things but also go off the beaten path, are experienced, difficult things become part of the story, bring home storiesAnd Pilgrims: set out to experience rather than see, no set path, embrace the difficult..maybe never come home.