Certain words and phrases get overused in the travel community. While some are harmless platitudes, other travel clichés can perpetuate problematic stereotypes.
As travelers, being mindful of the language we use is an important part of responsible tourism. Here are 8 travel clichés to avoid, and more thoughtful alternatives.
1. Tourist vs Traveler
There’s an emerging cliché that traveling as a “tourist” is inferior to being a “traveler.” The insinuation is that “travelers” are more adventurous, authentic, and engaged.
But what do these words actually mean? Per the dictionary, a tourist travels for pleasure or culture, while a traveler journeys or takes trips. Not much distinction!
Any person visiting a place they aren’t local to is doing the same thing, regardless of whether they identify as a tourist or traveler. Creating a hierarchy with these terms is unnecessary.
Break the Binary
Rather than debate tourist vs traveler, recognize we all have potential to travel thoughtfully. Backpackers in developing countries and resort vacationers alike can be respectful, culturally engaged tourists.
2. Romanticizing Rural Places
It’s common to describe rural regions as “wild” or “remote.” This clichéd language overlooks local history and perpetuates misconceptions. Rural places aren’t uncharted territories.
Use Locals’ Language
Avoid romanticized descriptions. Research an area’s history and share it accurately. Centering local voices provides valuable perspectives on a place.
3. Calling Places “Cheap”
While well-intentioned, calling destinations “cheap” signals travel privilege. What’s affordable to you may not be for locals. It also subtly suggests lower quality.
Discuss Affordability
Instead of “cheap,” say a place is affordable relative to your home country’s economy, or that your currency goes far there. Avoid insinuating lower quality.
4. Using “Colonial” Language
Words like “colonial,” “exotic,” and “explore” seem harmless. But they subtly glorify colonialism which still impacts many destinations today.
Evolve Beyond Colonial Roots
Travel writing has colonial roots. Avoid clichés stemming from this past. Share destinations respectfully, avoiding othering language.
5. Chasing “Hidden Gems”
Framing destinations as “hidden gems” or “undiscovered” overlooks local people. While lesser-visited, these places have history and populations preceding tourism.
Value Local History
Seek out lesser-known spots, but don’t call them “hidden.” Share their complex histories beyond tourism and highlight local knowledge.
6. Cultural Appropriation vs Appreciation
Cultural appropriation adopts customs without permission from marginalized cultures. Appreciation engages respectfully, with consent as a student.
Ask First, Learn Always
Avoid appropriating traditions and dress. Seek opportunities to appreciate through exchanges, guides, and cooking classes.
7. Country Counting
Tallying countries risks shifting travel from connection to competition. It also spurs debate around what “counts” as visiting somewhere.
Focus On Substance
Rather than ticking off countries, view travel as fostering meaningful connections. Spend quality time engaging with fewer places.
8. Only Traveling Somewhere “New”
Prioritizing only new destinations is a missed opportunity. Returning lets you appreciate nuances and diversities you’d miss on a first visit.
The Beauty of Returning
Make revisiting a place part of your travel routine. You gain deeper understanding of cultures and histories.
Travel Responsibly Through Language
Words matter, and certain travel clichés can uphold harmful stereotypes. But avoiding problematic language is one way we can all be more responsible, culturally aware tourists.
Which travel clichés do you aim to avoid? Share your thoughts below!
FAQs
What are some common travel clichés that should be avoided?
Some clichés to avoid include calling places “hidden gems”, country counting, using colonial language, and positioning yourself as a “traveler” rather than “tourist”. Also avoid romaticizing rural areas and calling destinations “cheap”.
Why is it important to be mindful of the language used to describe travel experiences?
Using clichés can perpetuate harmful stereotypes. Certain words also signal privilege and subtly glorify problematic aspects of travel’s history like colonialism. Language matters.
What is an example of a travel cliché that could be harmful?
Calling a place “cheap” is a problematic cliché because it overlooks economic differences and insinuates lower quality. Use words like “affordable” instead.
How can travelers appreciate other cultures respectfully?
Cultural appreciation engages with permission and an eagerness to learn. Take cooking classes, go on guided tours, and participate only when invited. Avoid appropriating traditions.
What are alternatives to clichés like “hidden gem” or “off the beaten path”?
Rather than use those terms, acknowledge local history and populations. If lesser-visited, share guide knowledge on how to responsibly travel there.
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