Wanderlust or Wonder-lost?
The True Cost of Thoughtless Travel
According to Agnes Callard's "The Case Against Travel," travel can bring out our worst qualities, promoting shallow interactions and materialism. She critiques the commonly held notion that travel is inherently enriching and transformative, arguing instead that travel often turns us into the worst versions of ourselves while convincing us that we are at our best. She digs the knife even deeper, suggesting that travel, particularly in the form of tourism, might be more about self-gratification and less about genuine engagement with different cultures or environments. While this perspective highlights the downsides of uninformed tourism, it fails to appreciate the enriching experiences and intercultural learning that can come from thoughtful travel.
The Value of Being Thoughtful While Traveling
Those of us who have a strong desire to explore the world can easily become susceptible to the vices Callard discusses. However, by being thoughtful, aware, and conscientious, we can avoid falling into these traps. My journey through India in 1989 and 1990 stands testament to this. I was young and had traveled a lot through Mexico with my family , but had never been away for an extended period in a culture so different. Because of my budget and the time away, immersion was my only choice - shopping for groceries, cooking, riding public transportation. I studied Hindi deeply to help make my way through northern India. I traversing the subcontinent by rail and bus, often with no other foreigners in sight. I did not come home the same person and learned lessons that impact every aspect of my life today. I discovered a world different from my own. This experience underscored the value of actively engaging with the world and striving to appreciate its diversity.
Sustainable and Ethical Approaches to Travel
Local communities are greatly affected by the choices we make when we travel. The rise of AirBnBs has brought attention to the fragile relationship between tourism and neighborhood well-being. The rise of tourists staying in short-term rentals has caused housing costs to soar and local life to be disrupted in many cities across the globe. Acknowledging this, I've started being more careful about my travel arrangements, choosing options that I hope contribute to the welfare of the destinations I visit.
Engaging and Supporting Locals
Engaging with local cultures and communities is key to ensuring travel is both enriching and respectful. Hiring a local guide not only supports the local economy, but also adds depth and authenticity to your travel experience. This strategy encourages a give-and-take dynamic between travelers and hosts, resulting in benefits for both parties involved.
She’s not talking about me, right?
Callard's critique may resonate with those of us who see travel as essential to our lives. It challenges us to reflect on our wanderlust. It's important to note that the critique doesn't condemn travel itself, but urges us to approach it with more awareness. Approaching travel with intentionality can result in personal transformation, cultural appreciation, and global understanding.
Conclusion
Travel allows us to delve into the diverse ways of life across the globe. Callard highlights consumerism and superficiality, but engaging in thoughtful and ethical travel can lead to transformative experiences. When we adopt these practices, we enhance our lives and make positive contributions to the communities and cultures we experience.