Mobility has the power to connect and to alienate people and ideas.

It may seem contrary to the mobile ethos, but stay longer, experience more. Embed.

Even when travelers’ intentions are to broaden horizons, self-segregation happens, often unwittingly as the result of "cultural fit". Highly desired in western culture, "fit is shaped by systems that can be hyper tailored and personalized, often delivered at a premium economically and socially." Those who stand apart—in mindset or activity—may gather in areas that have been created to reflect familiar viewpoints, reinforcing a natural tendency to congregate with similar people that may be more pronounced in situations where there is a language barrier. By seeking others with similar mindsets, even with good intentions, a new homogeneity can be created.

Binary thinking may be reinforced, locals may adjust their offerings to appeal to guests, and the expansion of perspective that comes with leaving comfort zones, can be diluted, or lost. Interactions between mobilists and host communities, especially in instances of cultural and economic disparity, have the capacity to damage or trivialize indigenous wellness and identity.

| nallu photo: Iason Athanasiadis |