Good stuff Mark. I’m really attuned to your musing about the differences between tourists and locals, having just returned from being a tourist in Patagonia. We (humans) are so eager to grade ourselves into locals and outsiders, to judge whose presence is more welcome or authentic. The distinctions we make don’t seem very meaningful in the end.
Thanks for the thoughtful comment, Tom. I just read your recent post about your trip to Patagonia. 10 days of hiking sounds pretty strenuous. Going on an organised tour is sensible, as you can make the best use of your time and are less likely to miss what you travelled to see. The mountains you photographed are enough to put anyone in his or her place. I've never seen a glacier from the air. In the face of the majesty of nature, it doesn't matter where we are from or what language we speak—we all become part of something much greater and longer lasting than ourselves.
You gave me a laugh, Mark. 97d. I couldn't help but imagine the tourists climbing up the wall ladder, as the sign suggests. ...And I know I shouldn't be judgemental, but... someone had been overeating at the constant buffet. Although, it is easy to do onboard.
I think cruise ships are a terrible burden, and really, only the port fees add to the local economy. But, it is a great way to see the world, if only in microcosm for a few hours. No packing and unpacking and wonderful service between ports. Yes, guilty! 24 days in 2023, including a visit to Israel for two days shortly before the fighting started (or between fighting). That was magic. I love some of my photos from the trip - the rest are rubbish!!!
I can understand that travelling by cruise ship is a comfortable, convenient, and efficient way to see multiple places in a relatively short period. I also see why people choose planned, guided tours with a group—it reduces stress and the risk of taking a wrong turn or making a disappointing choice. However, I think I would miss the thrill of the unexpected, the freedom to change course on a whim, and the chance to stumble upon delightful surprises between destinations.
Good stuff Mark. I’m really attuned to your musing about the differences between tourists and locals, having just returned from being a tourist in Patagonia. We (humans) are so eager to grade ourselves into locals and outsiders, to judge whose presence is more welcome or authentic. The distinctions we make don’t seem very meaningful in the end.
Thanks for the thoughtful comment, Tom. I just read your recent post about your trip to Patagonia. 10 days of hiking sounds pretty strenuous. Going on an organised tour is sensible, as you can make the best use of your time and are less likely to miss what you travelled to see. The mountains you photographed are enough to put anyone in his or her place. I've never seen a glacier from the air. In the face of the majesty of nature, it doesn't matter where we are from or what language we speak—we all become part of something much greater and longer lasting than ourselves.
You gave me a laugh, Mark. 97d. I couldn't help but imagine the tourists climbing up the wall ladder, as the sign suggests. ...And I know I shouldn't be judgemental, but... someone had been overeating at the constant buffet. Although, it is easy to do onboard.
I think cruise ships are a terrible burden, and really, only the port fees add to the local economy. But, it is a great way to see the world, if only in microcosm for a few hours. No packing and unpacking and wonderful service between ports. Yes, guilty! 24 days in 2023, including a visit to Israel for two days shortly before the fighting started (or between fighting). That was magic. I love some of my photos from the trip - the rest are rubbish!!!
I can understand that travelling by cruise ship is a comfortable, convenient, and efficient way to see multiple places in a relatively short period. I also see why people choose planned, guided tours with a group—it reduces stress and the risk of taking a wrong turn or making a disappointing choice. However, I think I would miss the thrill of the unexpected, the freedom to change course on a whim, and the chance to stumble upon delightful surprises between destinations.
Don't disagree with your final statement, Mark, but that requires stamina and lots more time and money! Mine is now limited!!!