Transforming the Tourist: Embracing the Traveler Within

Welcome to the first entry of my new travel blog, Transforming the Tourist: Embracing the Traveler Within! As the owner of Awesome Ottawa Tours, I’ve spent years guiding people through the fascinating stories, hidden gems, and rich history of Ottawa, Illinois. Now, it’s time to flip the script and step into the shoes of a traveler myself.

It’s all about perspective.

I’ll be sharing from a TRAVELER perspective and not a tourist or tour guide perspective.

This winter, I’ll be embarking on a solo journey that kicks off with a road trip from Ottawa to Memphis to celebrate New Year’s, followed by a two-month adventure immersing myself in the culture, cuisine, and rhythms of New Orleans. Along the way, I’ll reflect on the difference between being a “tourist” and a “traveler”—a distinction that’s central to how we approach our tours in Ottawa.

Through this blog, I’ll share the lessons, challenges, and joys of discovering new places with a traveler’s mindset. Whether it’s uncovering hidden histories, connecting with local communities, or simply getting lost in the moment, my goal is to inspire others to move beyond sightseeing and embrace the deeper experiences that come with curiosity and authenticity.

Join me as I explore not just the streets of Memphis and New Orleans, but also the transformative journey within. Together, we’ll redefine what it means to travel.