Why I Love Tourists

Tourists. In the past 3 years, I've lived in 2 of the biggest tourist trap cities in America: Washington, D.C. and New York City. Everybody I know hates them, usually vehemently, for these reasons:

1) They clog up the sidewalks, especially when taking pictures

My DC friend causing more traffic in Times Square (photo used with permission)

2) They stand in the "fast lane" of the escalator

3) They talk really loud in subways (there's a general unspoken rule that everyone pretty much ignores each other and stays quiet)

Confession: I love tourists, for these reasons: 

1) I love BEING a tourist. That's why I chose to live in DC (See my retired DC to the Fullest blog) and now NYC - so I could be a permanent tourist and explore these amazing cities to the fullest. So...I empathize with their enthusiasm ;)

Cartwheels in front of the White House

2) They boost our city economies. Duh. Souvenirs galore.

"Designer" bags in Chinatown

3) They bring an infectious passion for life and remind you to love and explore EVERYTHING around you :)

So...practice your patience and follow their example. Live life to the fullest :)