Traveling, in its essence, is about seeing and experiencing the wonders of the world while enjoying life at its finest. As we wander through different places we have never been, we also become a different person for we not only discover destinations, but also, ourselves along the way.


Some people believe that traveling is merely witnessing breath taking views while others think that it is about getting lost and finding oneself. It has been held true by Asian, especially the Singaporeans who, according to Visa’s Travel Intentions. 95% of them have traveled more than the Asia Pacific. It goes to show that they love to travel and it is now becoming part of their culture.

Truth be told, you will find few of people in the world who dislike traveling, and there are so many out there who confess that they are “travel obsessed”. They spend their entire days thinking about travel-related things. For some, travel is life and something they wouldn’t have any other way and this is where we cross the line of distinguishing what makes a tourist and what constitutes a traveler at heart and in practice.

Tourists document moments; Travelers live it

There is nothing wrong about sharing your whereabouts specifically your travels on Instagram and Facebook but experiences become more precious when not spend behind the screen.


A traveler lives in the moment because he doesn’t want it to pass by, he knows when to snap a real good photo and savor the rest.

Tourists miss home; Travelers think where to go next

Tourists feel home sick, they miss their room back home and overlook the opportunity that traveling brings. A real traveler feels at home wherever he goes, he believes that life actually starts when one leaves the so called “comfort zone” and that there is nothing more fantastic than waking up in a different place.

Tourists go with the pack; travelers do wander

Tourists would always stay with the pack, stick to guide maps and magazines and are pretty much contented with taking photos. A traveler will wander around, explore their way and search their own experience. They don’t waste opportunities where fun and adventure waits go home with a great story to tell.

Tourists have lots of baggage; travelers pack light

Most tourists travel for comfort and they bring it as they move from one place to another which makes them carry loads of stuff. Travelers, on the other hand, bring basics and see whatever is available out there, do and consume anything just like any local. For the most part, they intend to experience and see things in a native’s eye.

Tourists splurge; Travelers save

A basic tourist will be spending money on leisure wherever they head because they travel for comfort but a real traveler would know how to travel for fun and great adventure without spending much—these are skills they have learned from roaming around different countries and immersing to diverse way of life.