How to make the most of staying in one place

Apparently there are reasons, which are unbeknownst to me, that stop people from being able to wander. Maybe it has to do with something called a “job,” or having assets beyond what you can fit in a bag. Regardless, sometimes people have to stay put. While I wouldn't advise that lifestyle for anyone, there are some ways to live and learn like a traveler while staying within the confines of your region. Here are some tips to help you make the best of your stagnant surroundings.

Make transplant friends: While you may have grown up or lived in your current residence for years, there are people wandering around your area who still see all the sights and surroundings with wide eyes. Making friends with transplants allows you to see your city through a fresh lens, and can lead to taking advantage of things you've taken for granted for years. Transplant friends will be more likely roam and wander on weekends, and even if it is just a short day trip to a new destination, you’ll find yourself seeing new places and experiencing new things in places that you thought you knew the ropes.

Couchsurfing: You already have a bed and roof over your head, so why would you use Couchsurfing? Well first off, that extra long, extra comfy couch you have just waiting to be slept on could be your ticket to new friends and new perspectives. Couch surfers need places to stay and unless individuals like yourself offer up said place to stay, all of us will have to start paying for hostels or hotels and won’t make as many awesome friends along the way. As well as offering a lowly traveler a place to stay, Couchsurfing also does weekly or monthly meet-ups for people in different cities. Meet-ups can range from getting a beer to going or participating in sporting events and it’s all dependent on locals putting in the effort to meet new people. All you have to do to join is sign up for the free site and start following your city’s specific page.

Participate in ride shares: Are you a person who commutes a decent amount between cities? I know for us in Colorado, most weekends see mass exodus from the Front Range into the Rockies. Most people who are stagnant do, in fact, travel somewhat. Using sites like Zimride or Craigslist to offer up open seats in your car while commuting is a great way to help a traveler out, with the bonus of sparking up an interesting conversation. I know the idea of having a stranger in your car may not appeal to some, but the fact is, people who use these sites are normally pretty awesome, very social and have some great stories to tell. On top of that, splitting the cost of gas is something all people can appreciate. 

Do some research: While I’m not one to actually sit down and research a destination too much before I go, some people are all about it. Learning about the cool places to visit in a city helps one give direction to their travel. This act can actually be applied to one’s own town. While it is easy to head to the same bars or restaurants all the time, actually looking into upcoming events, free activities or other happenings in your own area opens up opportunities galore. Stumbling upon a free festival or outdoor movie is always a ton of fun. Most places will have local magazines or literature that advertises upcoming events, so getting your hands on these publications is key. Along with upcoming events, you can also just research your city. There are probably a ton of touristy things you've overlooked during your time living there.

Reading and writing: One of the most important lessons learned while traveling is the necessity of reflection time. While at home, it’s so easy to get consumed with the day-to-day life; during travels, it is the opposite. With Internet being scarce, distractions set at bay and freedom from a constantly buzzing cell phone, it is easy to find time to read the book you've been putting off or put literal pen to literal paper. Reflection helps a person find themselves, grow and fully understand and profit from situations.

Being stationary doesn't mean you need to be stagnant. Enjoy the spoils of a traveler while waking up in your comfortable bed, ya spoiled jerk!

Photo courtesy of Benway