Allergies have kicked me in the face.

My face looks so bad:

• It looks like I got in a fight with Mike Tyson. And I’m talking about the young Mike Tyson.
• It looks like I got hit in the face with a hot shovel.
• My iPhone doesn’t recognize me.

Over the weekend, my brother and his friend video-called me and after one look, they immediately started cracking jokes. They were calling to go bar hopping but decided that it was best to take a rain check until next week.

Until I heal, I’m going to be rocking sunglasses hard.

C’est la vie

Have you ever been on a trip that others loved, but it just didn't resonate with you?

Nothing necessarily went wrong; it just wasn't your cup of tea.

I've experienced this as well.

If you can relate, it's likely because the trip wasn't suited to your type of traveling.

Essentially, there are two different types of travelers*.

Let's find out which one you are.

Some people enjoy learning about new cultures and customs. For them, an ideal trip might involve cooking authentic dishes at a local's home or riding on a crowded bus alongside locals and their livestock. Such individuals are known as Allocentric travelers.

Or

Then there are those who desire a flawless and smooth trip where comfort is paramount. They won't consider a restaurant unless it boasts at least one Michelin star, and they expect royal treatment. Given the stress of work, they aim to fully enjoy the fruits of their labor. If this description fits, you're what's known as a Psychocentric type traveler.

Why is this important?

Understanding your travel style can guide your choice of destination and activities.

For instance, an Allocentric traveler might not enjoy a luxurious cruise. Similarly, a Psychocentric traveler may feel anxious if they stay in a jungle hut with the locals.

But wait, there's more.

Understanding the above information can help assess your compatibility with potential travel companions. Discussing their past trips can give you a sense of how well you'll get along.

Personally, I lean towards the Allocentric side, but I also enjoy relaxation and disconnection.

Remember, no one is purely one type of traveler. It's crucial to understand your preferences and the kind of trip you want to have.

There's no right or wrong preference, just different ones. Keep this in mind the next time you travel in a group and see how it influences your journey. I'd love to hear about your experience!

Happy Travels, 

Andrew
 

*Kurtz, Jaime. The Happy Traveler: Unpacking the Secrets of Better Vacations. Oxford University Press, 2017.

What type of traveler are you?