An Arlington civic leader recently posted something on social media that resonated with me. He encouraged people to be a tourist in their own city — visit a shop you’ve always driven past, try that restaurant everyone’s talking about, or attend an event in your neighborhood. Basically: explore and try new things. His goal was to strengthen civic pride, but there’s even more to it than that. Rediscovering where you live can be a fulfilling adventure; we often get so caught up in routines and comfort zones that we forget to explore the hidden gems all around us.

As for me, I’ve been wanting to browse the new SuperFoody Asian Market on Little Road, visit the Heavy Metal Hall of Fame in Downtown, and finally grab lunch at Istanbul Grill down the street. I also need to check out First Thursdays, too. One of my favorite things to do is explore Arlington; there is truly so much out there to see, do, and experience.

While that civic leader had the right idea, I’m also reminded of the late, great Anthony Bourdain’s philosophy: “Be a traveler, not a tourist.” He was advocating for us to dig deeper and maintain a sense of wonder—to take the road less traveled, observe, and connect. Open your mind; close your doubts. Discover the genius loci and let its spirit guide you.

Now we’re getting somewhere.

If you can take Bourdain’s wanderlust spirit and apply it to where you live, you may just have the best of both worlds.

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Blog post by Jason S. Sullivan, 05-14-26