PSA: A local in Chiang Mai told me I wasn't a real traveler

Anthony Grant · 2026-03-28T03:35:05.230511+00:00

Was working from a cafe there last year. Guy next to me asked how long I'd stay. Said a month. He laughed and said, 'You people just live here. That's not traveling.' Happened at the Sticky Falls cafe. Stuck with me. Made me question the whole label. Anyone else get this from locals?

harris.andrew6mo ago

Honestly, that guy's gatekeeping is so weird. Tbh, staying a month in one place is a great way to actually get to know it.

5

ericw936mo ago

Reminds me of people who gatekeep any hobby.

4

phoenix_martin403mo ago

Gatekeeping any hobby" is spot on, but I get his point. Traveling feels different when you're always moving.

5

jessica9216mo ago

What does he think a real traveler is, a ghost?

2