On The Write Path

Flygskam

I need to think about the following excerpt from an article I found:

"Different Types of Travel Shaming We Face Today"

©unsplash

Environmental travel shaming includes Swedish flygskam, which became trendy just before the pandemic, since most air travel harms the environment. Political travel shaming occurs when you visit a hostile country such as North Korea or Iran or a place with a large indigenous population and a history of exploitation. Animal travel shaming happens if you go on a "Big Five" hunting expedition in Africa or even do a swim-with-the-dolphins experience from those concerned about animal welfare.

There's also luxury shaming, where people criticize others for staying in expensive hotels or flying business class, and cultural appropriation concerns when travelers participate in traditional ceremonies or wear local clothing.

Me:

1. Why use a plane? I use buses and trains when they are available. I like to look out windows and I'm not usually in a hurry.
2. Political: I believe in connection but I'm concerned about safety. These days that includes coming back to hostility by zealous officials.
3. Exploitation. Good point. People aren't in a zoo. But... I'd have to think further.
4. I'm not a hunter but can see how interaction with other species can help understanding. I don't ride elephants or horses but I eat hog and cow.
5. I'm a budget traveler so luxury is beyond my consideration. I don't need to be catered to.
6. I prefer to observe rather than participate, so that's one of my blind spots. It's more respective to join in when invited but I'm socially awkward.
7. I try to wear appropriate everyday clothing. I'd like to wear some traditional Thai clothing though when appropriate.

Need to think deeper.

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