balanced & sustainable

It seems like I have been spending the majority of 2025 and 2026 ranting against the transactionality and commodification, decolonization and better care of human beings - whether we are on home ground or abroad. 

Touristification is a phenomenon that is happening worldwide - in both in the north and the south hemispheres or in both high traffic or far flung areas. 

a working balance between local & tourist needs

Born and raised in the Philippines, I moved to the US right after 9/11, and have returned for almost two years now - after being abroad for 20 years. 

This is a reflection on how touristification can transform a place you love and where once possessed a strong sense of belonging - when you are priced out of it. 

I eventually left the neighborhood when my rent tipped past most of my income. Although I lost my daily life, I was still one of the luckier ones. I had options and could choose a new path.

That wasn’t the case for many elderly residents or migrants who didn’t really have a plan B. 

Returning to the old neighborhood, I am happy I am not living there anymore. To changes that have made it unrecognizable, marked up prices are high. Cookie cutter cafés repeated on every block. AirBnBs in just about every building.

It's alarming to witness folks - locals, visitors, tourists - unaware of what’s happening in the neighborhood. As well as extended around the rest of the city or in other destinations worldwide.

This is a growing concern and problem. As travelers, we have a responsibility to inform ourselves about the places we visit - their histories and culture, the current situation or circumstance. Be better prepared to face their realities before we hit the ground.

This is the ideal opening toward  a more conscious and less colonized transit or travel. It is after all best that we take care of local communities - our own and those of others.

The blame is not the sole concern of tourism but is shared with localized leadership and the government. All share in the responsibility to preserve and create affordable housing, quality of life, safety, and equality - for both residents and visitors. 

The people and population as a whole should be better served and serviced. To be able to guarantee a more enjoyable experience for the general public and not just some entitled few. 

Let's care well for all neighborhoods and communities.