Giving up the clipboard of fun
Tales from my Italian adventure
When I first started exploring the world in the mid 1980’s, I admit I succumbed to the clipboard of fun method of travelling. That’s probably a pretty common mistake for novice or infrequent travelers - to have as many sights as possible jammed into the itinerary with the primary purpose being to tick off each one as completed rather than truly experienced.
The allure of the clipboard of fun probably speaks to our desire to “do it all” or to make the most of what we imagine is a once in a lifetime trip. But the dark secret of that dreaded clipboard is that you end up tired with no particularly powerful memories. You might have been to the Uffizi Gallery in Florence but you don’t have a clue what you saw.
Never enough time
What I’ve come to realize is that there will never be enough time to see everything there is to see in the world. I gave up the clipboard of fun method and traded it for a grassroots one. I’ve learned a few things:
- to slow things down, not plan too much, leave lots of free space for unexpected discoveries
- that tourist attractions are nice but the best sights I’ve seen are off the beaten track.
- that connecting with local people is the richest way to learn about an area.
That was one of the delightful parts of this trip to Italy. During our week with David Whyte, we experienced Tuscany through the eyes and stories of some amazing Italians. Everyday people who shared their Tuscany with us. No guidebooks, no tourist attractions.
Create a personal experience
A few years ago I discovered a great company called Context Travel. They design small group tours of famous and not so famous sights that allow travelers an opportunity to really have a personal experience. I’ve taken several tours with them during the past few years and they never disappoint. On the second half of our trip we had the great pleasure to explore the Oltrarno neighbourhood of Florence with them. An absolutely wonderful experience learning about this less explored part of the city and the artisans who work there.
Next time you plan a trip I encourage you to think about the kind of experience you want to have rather than the list of sights you want to see. Far less exhausting than a clipboard of fun and infinitely more memorable.
