Atheist Forum

The bigger cities are so different from the rural areas no matter what nation you are in. There is the desire to see the famous attractions to complete some checklist, but then it feels a bit like a theme park and with all the hustling. Surrounded by other tourist with their khaki pants, goddam camera phones, comfy walking shoes, sun visors and water bottles. Sometimes actually hearing them condescend. Or them being side-eyed by the fed-up locals who might assume you don't understand what they are saying. Living in touristy areas myself, I know all about the "need you, but hate you" sentiment.

The travels I remember the most are when I stayed in less busy or rural area for a few weeks or more and actually interacted with relaxed locals.

Even though the touristy landmarks get top billing, a lot of the less-populated areas are amazing. I've seen footage of some of the smaller islands in Japan that are wonderful, as well as mom-and-pop restaurants (very affordable and well-made food, too) and lesser-known shrines.

Even in my neck of the woods, I don't think the big attractions are all that amazing. Some of my favorite locations are pretty out of the way. Hell, my favorite beach is a quaint little beach with very little popularity.