It’s always a strange feeling to be in a foreign country and realize that for some people, the things you marvel at are just ordinary things that have become a part of their everyday life. But, it’s an even stranger feeling to dawn upon the fact that you have not yet explored your country the way a tourist would. Especially in the current unprecedented circumstances of the COVID-19 pandemic that might have pressed pause on your travel plans, it is time to see your motherland with brand new eyes and make the most of the situation. Be safe in your travels, be responsible and take care of your health.
These are some of the reasons why you’ll absolutely love being a tourist in your own country, particularly if that country happens to be Sri Lanka. (If you are here on a visit that has been extended due to the present situation, you too can follow our tips to experience Sri Lanka in a local’s point of view)
Self Discovery:
The self-discovery that you acquire from exploring the hidden corners of your homeland is unmatched. Explore the history, landscapes and ancient monuments of your country, because they are an intrinsic part of who you are. The battles your ancestors fought, the kingdoms built by rulers and ancient civilizations are your own, because they are inextricably tied to your sense of self, and belonging. You don’t have to go out of town on cultural trips if you are in Colombo. Visit the Gangarama Temple, or The Dutch Hospital Precinct.
Pride and Humility:
They are two sides of the same coin. Believe it or not, being a tourist in your country would feed both your pride and humility. It feels amazing to know that you are part of something much bigger and better than yourself. Rediscovering your nation would fill you with pride that you belong to a large group of people that share this beautiful country with you. It would also humble you as you realize that your motherland’s history, nature, culture and tradition have in some way defined who you are now.
Fresh Eyes:
Your country, much like everything else, is ever-changing. Refresh your old memories and rediscover your childhood with a pair of fresh eyes as you wander familiar yet unfamiliar sites. Look at things from a tourist’s perspective and you will understand that there is so much more to your country than you’ve known. Spark up the nostalgia and spend more time at a place than you would if you were just on vacation. Visit the Galle Fort and explore every nook and corner of the majestic site, or have a beach-cation just by yourself and reflect on far you’ve come in life, along with your country’s growth.
Spend Quality Time:
Travel and fatigue go hand in hand. There are occasions when jetlag, language barriers, and new cuisines will get the best of you (even if you are a tourist, having spent some time here in Sri Lanka will get you accustomed to the local ways, so never fear). When you become a tourist in your own country, you spend more time exploring. There are an endless amount of places you could visit within your own land, and you will find that by spending less time on travelling from place to place, you could save money, and energy. A world of wonders is just a hop on the train or bus away, when you’re in familiar grounds.
Cherish The Little Things:
When you travel, your itinerary tends to only cover the main attractions that everyone “must visit”. You often don’t have enough time to savor all the little things because you have to stick to a schedule. When you’re home, or are spending more time at a place, you have all the time in the world to cherish the little things that you usually take for granted. Hit the local sweet shop for your favorite snacks, go for a small walk, take photos of the beautiful sunsets, listen to the chirping of the birds, make your own meals – the choices are endless. Most places are also vastly deserted, so you can really put your explorer glasses on. However, be cautious, wash your hands, wear your masks and obey the rules.
Photos sourced from Vikalpa, Shehal Joseph and Chris Blackhead
