tourist in my town

I live across the country from most of my family and good friends. While the negatives of this outweigh the positives, I have to admit that there is one really good thing about living far away…and that is having visitors! It is not only fantastic to hang out and catch up with friends but to take them around town and act as a tourist is always a highlight of having friends fly in.

This past weekend was one of the best I’ve had this summer and I have to give thanks to the out of town visitor who was the driving force behind our trip to Tofino where the beautiful beaches and the chance to surf always create amazing memories. Taking someone to a fantastic spot that showcases the beauty of my side of the country not only gives me a chance to show off why I love where I live but also to take advantage of all there is to offer. There is so much to take in all around me and sometimes without the push of a foreign friend, it’s hard not to take for granted all that there is to experience. To be able to pull out my camera and see the sights as if I’m seeing them for the first time becomes a bit of a proud moment - and I don’t have to feel like a dork for taking tons of pictures of the mountains that surround me every day or the park that I’ve walked through many times before.

I love being a tourist in my own town but sometimes, without an actual tourist to give me the excuse to act in awe of my own area, it’s easy to say, maybe next time, or, one of these days. But visitors are a great excuse to try out that fancy restaurant that everyone talks about or take a tour bus around town to the sights you‘ve heard so much about. Sometimes, you just never know what your city has to offer until somebody else is around to see it. Anyone want to come visit?

What’s it like to be a tourist in your town? Where do you take visitors?

PS Thank you for all the lovely birthday wishes...what a way to make a girl feel loved! Too sweet!