Living Near Tourist Attractions You’re Not Interested In: A Personal Experience
I've lived in various places around the world, and one thing that often comes up is the presence of tourist attractions right in my backyard - attractions that I just can't muster any interest in visiting.
New York City and Scranton, Pennsylvania
During my college years in Scranton, Pennsylvania, I found myself living just a short drive from New York City. Despite the proximity, I never ventured into the bustling metropolis. The idea of being surrounded by countless people, navigating through traffic, and enduring the city's energy wasn't appealing to me. My preference for quieter, more relaxed environments kept me from exploring what many consider a must-see destination.
London and Personal Preferences
Now residing in London for nearly four decades, I've found that I only head to the city's hotspots when a specific reason, driven by a friend or event, pushes me to do so. For instance, I won't spontaneously decide to attend the Sunday Organ Recitals, even though they're highly popular. My theory is that new arrivals tend to eagerly explore major landmarks in the first few years, but after that, it's either a particular event, exhibition, or the need to act as a tourist guide that catches their interest.
Some places, like Madame Tussauds and the Planetarium, are complete wastes of time in my opinion. However, over the years, I've met people who can offer after-hours tours to places like the Guildhall or the Palace of Westminster, while I can reciprocate by showing them around Broadcasting House. A friend who acts as a Blue Badge Guide can receive free tickets for plays, concerts, or exhibitions in exchange for recommending such events to visitors.
Buckingham Palace and Royal Life
Many local Londoners and people from the rest of the United Kingdom have visited Buckingham Palace during their lifetimes. However, as time goes on, the palaces lose their charm for many. Sure, weddings and royal events might attract attention, but for the most part, it's seen as a big, lonely house with over-the-top, opulent state rooms. Even the Queen herself is known to prefer the more private and cozy Windsor Castle. For most, visiting Buckingham Palace feels like a redundant experience since it's funded by taxes, and the Queen herself has expressed a preference for a different residence.
Vancouver, BC and Skiing
Living in Vancouver, British Columbia, I'm surrounded by numerous ski resorts. However, my personal inclination is to stay in the city and enjoy the sights of snow-covered mountain peaks from my window. I have no interest in skiing and have no plans to go down that path. It's a nice perk for those who do enjoy skiing and helps bring in tourist dollars, but it remains an experience I do not share.
Los Angeles and Hollywood
Another place I live near is Hollywood, about 50 miles from Los Angeles, which is a popular tourist destination for visitors from other states and countries. After many visits, I've found that Hollywood lives up to its nickname, 'Tinseltown.' It's a place that might be of interest to someone looking for a night out, but it's far from relaxing or impressive. It's often described as dirty, noisy, cheap, sleazy, dangerous, crowded, and full of facades. The only redeeming quality is a couple of interesting museums, which in themselves are not enough to warrant a visit for most.
For tourists planning a visit to Southern California, I advise them to skip the Hollywood experience. If you're hoping for a place that's relaxing, fun, or impressive, Hollywood is not it. The city has a different charm that appeals to a specific type of visitor, but it's not for everyone.
Exploring new places can be a thrilling and enriching experience, but sometimes, the allure of these attractions diminishes when one is used to the comfort and routine of their own surroundings. It's important to recognize and accept our own preferences, which may differ from the commonly held views of a tourist attraction's appeal.