Blog 5- Savor the Trip, Don't Tweet It

 In Christopher Elliott's "Savor the Trip, Don't Tweet It," Elliott gives great insight on how technology can hinder the overall experience that you end up having while traveling. He has concerns throughout his writing that all forms of technology, including cell phones, computers, and even cameras, can prevent people from fully experiencing the wonders that one should encounter while traveling. He feels that the uniqueness and magnificence of travelling is being destroyed by technology. But one of Elliott's main concerns is that "the essential, spontaneous part of the vacation is a risk of extinction." Elliott feels that vacations are supposed to take you down roads that you would not have previously considered taking. Vacations should have elements that surprise each and every person. I feel that when vacations are too predictable, it can sometimes leave you wanting more, as you would not have fully experienced the thrill of discovering something new and unplanned. Elliott stresses that the reader should think about what vacationing was like prior to the advanced technology that we now have at our disposal. Then he wants us to think about a vacation now without it. Though it would seem very odd to not have everything right there for us, I feel that not having excess technology is a way to enhance the vacationing experience.

My purpose for going to Australia and New Zealand is to serve as a median; I need to convey my knowledge to the people I meet, and in return I need to spread their message to the people back home that I know. I need to do everything in my power to get the absolute most out of my trips to Australia, including cutting back or eliminating my usage of technology while on this trip. Though I have not thought specifically about what role technology should play in our trip, I do believe that technology should be limited. I think that if we are given all-access to our phones, iPods, computers, etc then many of us will miss out on the experience that we will have the change to see while in Australia.

After reading Elliott's opinions, I have developed a new view on how much technology should be used in all aspects of traveling, not just to a "new" place. He makes very strong points that have tons of validity regarding how much technology can actually hurt your travelling experience.I agree with what he says; I feel that technology truly can "make travel a less memorable, less meaningful experience." When we are concerned with technology, whether it be texting, Facebooking, or taking pictures, we are not focused on our surroundings and the discoveries that are waiting for us to find them. Technology does take away from the overall experience, and Elliott puts great insight into the points that he makes.

This being said, I think that there should be technology boundaries that we (as a class) set. I feel like certain forms of technology should not be completely eliminated, but rather be used in moderation. Some technology should be used to a degree, while others should be banned completely. Facebook, computers, videogames, and even phones have very little if any need on our trip. I feel, like Elliott, that in order for us to have the best experience possible, technology has to be limited so we can fully experience our surroundings and be able to re-convey everything we discover.