Sharing a short essay that arrived in my inbox today, courtesy of Dense Discovery — a newsletter about design, tech, sustainability and urbanism curated by Kai Brach, based in Melbourne, Australia.
Do we travel for transformation or validation?
It's always interesting to hear what thought leaders "outside" the travel industry have to say about the state of tourism, so I'm sharing Kai's article with his permission.
There's a few good points in this piece, including how touristic travel (e.g. mass tourism) can import more culture to a destination than it exports. I also agree that seeking validation on social media is drowning out good quality travel content.
There's some truth to Kai's point about escapism. Consider this: the biggest competitor to a travel agent is the electronics shop, where consumers can instead buy a new 50" flatscreen TV. In this scenario, which "escapism" is worse? Buying a new TV or booking a trip on a cruise ship? 😅
However, I don't believe that all trave...
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I'm a Nigerian tech nomad looking to experience different cultures and experiences
Hi hi. Some interesting places to visit include Gambia - also referred to as the Smiling Coast of Africa. Was there in May, and the experience was really good. You can also explore East Africa - esp Kenya, Uganda, Rwanda and Tanzania. They have some really immersive cultural experiences you’ll come to love.
Hi Karunwi, are you looking to travel and meet other digital nomads, or just a personal vacation?
And are you looking for visa-free destinations for Nigerian passport holders, or anywhere?
Also, what months is "winter" for you?
Thanks for the suggestion. What's your take on the food? Is it very different from Nigerian cuisine?
Hi Ian, Winter would be November to January. I'm definitely open to meeting other nomads, that sounds exciting.
Visa- free destinations definitely
Hi Karunwi,
I'm glad you've gotten such amazing suggestions already. Based on your preference of visa-free countries I'll suggest Ghana and Barbados.
I was in Ghana towards the end of last year and loved it! They have a vibrant tech scene with events I think you'd enjoy. Afro Nation festival comes up in December and tons of other shows with tourist inflow from all over the world so the cultural experience you seek will be available. Lastly, the food is relatively close to what we have in Nigeria with great new options you should try... Kelewele is a personal favourite I highly recommend.
Barbados has always struck me for its Caribbean culture and fascinating views, definitely check it out if you can.
Safe travels 😁👍🏾