So, you’ve got the travel bug. You fantasize about filling your journal up with travelogues but you can’t afford to go trekking around the world. What can you do? Become a tourist in your own hometown. I’m a huge fan of this. It’s the perfect way to satisfy your wanderlust if you can’t do any extensive travelling. It’s a free or relatively cheap option to world travelling. You may say to yourself, “My town is so boring. What could I possibly write about?” The trick is to think and act like you are a tourist and this is your first time in the town or state.
One thing you can try is researching your town or state. Find out what the main tourist destinations are. Also look for some of the more off-the-beaten-path ones. Pick one or two and go visit. Take your journal and document your visit. Pick up all the brochures and literature they may offer. Take photos. Add these things to your journal entry for the trip.
Another idea is to check out your local museum. Almost every town is going to have at least one. Either an art museum or something niche. You would be surprised at what is available. My favorites are “living museums” where people dress in period clothing and play the part. There are several of these in my home state and they’re always interesting to visit. Don’t forget to ask questions while you are there and then write about what you’ve learned.
Another option is to hop on the bus and take it to the end of the line. Get off the bus there and explore. Find a new cafe to sit and write in. People watch. Eavesdrop. Soak in the local flavors.
So, if you want to write travelogues, don’t let yourself be limited by lack of funds. Travelling doesn’t mean you have to go all that far to experience something new. Get out there, hop a bus or commuter rail, hit the road, and write.
