I am more of a guide consumer as opposed to a guide creator, and I struggle with the whole concept. Even if I trust the source and know that I will enjoy a meal at X spot, I also know that all the other Americans will have read the same guide and are trying to go to the same spots. I like the idea that a rebellion to rec culture is brewing. Thanks for kicking it off!
Loved this piece! Such a refreshing perspective during a time when the world seems intent on commodifying experiences en masse.
As someone who has (for various reasons) spent 75% of my time traveling in a state of spontaneous discovery, this really spoke to my soul. So many of my most cherished travel memories have happened in the margins - from the secret gems I stumbled upon, to the locals who took me under their wing, to the moments of unexpected hospitality in places that don't appear in any guides or lists. And so many of my greatest disappointments have happened during trips I tried to obsessively plan. I always recommend to friends that they view sights/points of interest as their compass rather than their itinerary. Nothing beats being in the moment.
I am more of a guide consumer as opposed to a guide creator, and I struggle with the whole concept. Even if I trust the source and know that I will enjoy a meal at X spot, I also know that all the other Americans will have read the same guide and are trying to go to the same spots. I like the idea that a rebellion to rec culture is brewing. Thanks for kicking it off!
Well said, thanks for inspiring me to be better with my own travel food writing!
nicely done!
I love this piece Abena!! I agree with a lot of your commentary & LOVED that you gave an example of a guide with soul 🫶🫶
Loved this piece! Such a refreshing perspective during a time when the world seems intent on commodifying experiences en masse.
As someone who has (for various reasons) spent 75% of my time traveling in a state of spontaneous discovery, this really spoke to my soul. So many of my most cherished travel memories have happened in the margins - from the secret gems I stumbled upon, to the locals who took me under their wing, to the moments of unexpected hospitality in places that don't appear in any guides or lists. And so many of my greatest disappointments have happened during trips I tried to obsessively plan. I always recommend to friends that they view sights/points of interest as their compass rather than their itinerary. Nothing beats being in the moment.