“If you do not know the difference between a traveler and a tourist - you are a tourist.” Mommzen
EXPAT COMMUNITIES
Global Citizens are at home anywhere.
Some of us are wondering gypsies, ranging near or far, due to an innate curiosity about the world beyond our roots, or sometimes we move about just because we are easily bored. If you range far enough from home you will be exposed to new countries, new cultures, and new ideas. Of course there are also those who end up in distant lands due to employment circumstances. In many of these countries you find the coming together of the foreigners in specific localities generally considered 'expat communities'. Some of those communities are insular (confining to their own group) and others are somewhat localized, but integrated with the native population.
"Wherever you go - there you are"
Having spent time in many of the non-insular expat communities around the world I can attest to the joy of sharing new experiences with lively people from many distant lands. People often seem to be their most authentic selves in such an environment. Or at least having fun behaving like it!
"When it stops being fun - stop doing it!"
Many of the more conventional mindset consider such behavior hedonistic and selfish. Those who are trapped into a life of mediocracy, drudgery, or both, are usually the most judgmental about other people. People who take risks are willing to push the boundaries of their personal growth.
“Great spirits have always found violent opposition from mediocre minds” Albert Einstein
