The pros and cons of travelers from your home turf
As much as backpackers try and integrate into the local culture, the fact is they are still tourists. Through things like volunteering, learning the language and home stays, it is becoming easier and easier to integrate into local ways of life. Even so, as a tourist you are going to meet other tourists. This is the nature of the game.
Southeast Asia is a literal hotbed for visitors from all around the world. Due to proximity, many Asians, Australians and Europeans tend to roam here. Once upon a blue moon you’ll meet Americans, South Americans and Canadians as well. With that being said, as an American, I haven’t quite decided how I feel about meeting and traveling with other Americans.
