National Tourist Appreciation Day

Tourists get a bad rap, which is a bit funny since anyone who has done any travel can be considered a tourist. As a local it can be frustrating to see weather-followers come and go, but the truth is that many of our favorite local places can't sustain local traffic on their own. Tourists are a necessary driver of many local economies, and for that, we should be grateful.

History of National Tourist Appreciation Day

There is no official evidence about the creator or origin of National Tourist Appreciation Day.  If you're a traveler today, expect to be pampered. But, wait a minute. As a tourist, you should be pampered every day, every day.

The vacations are too infrequent and too far between vacations. When you go on vacation and spend your good, hard earned money, you expect and deserve to be treated well. You have earned (and are paying for) the right to be taught, pampered, and attended.

You can and should expect hotels, restaurants, attractions and other tourist attractions to successfully do this. If these attractions don't know about the holiday, let them know in advance. Then plan a significant holiday to coincide with National Tourist Appreciation Day. When you make a reservation, say something like "I'd like to make a reservation for National Tourist Appreciation Day, for ....". They will get the picture quickly.

If you're a tourist who can't get enough appreciation, National Tourist Appreciation Day is just a few weeks away.

Some reasons for National Tourist Appreciation Day being loved

• They choose function over fashion

This can be summed up in two words: fanny pack. They're the classic example of something everyone recognizes as useful, but no one wants to be caught using. But when we are abroad? Put on that pretty bag, grab your embarrassingly large hats and wear them proudly!

• They love adventure

You'll have a hard time finding a traveler who doesn't enjoy doing new things. It almost comes down to territory - so if you're looking for a good time, go where the tourists go!

• They spend money

There's no arguing here - tourists spend a lot of money. In 2016, there are more tourists who come and visit Bangkok, Thailand in comparison with other cities in the world. According to MasterCard's Global Destination Cities Index from 2016, travelers spent nearly $15 billion on popular destinations in the last year. That's more than enough to build three copies of NYC's One World Trade Center building (what the WSJ calls "by far the most expensive new office tower of the word"), and still excess.

How to celebrate National Tourist Appreciation Day

• Get some travel outfits

With a little work, you can have your own travel "outfit". Not that it's going to be every day wear, but when you decide to pack and go, you'll be surprised how much stress you'll avoid once you've bought it all.

• Going to some new places

Attract your inner tourist! National Tourist Day is the perfect excuse to book the trip you've been talking about for years. Grand Canyon? Do it!

• Make a list of dream destinations

While some of the best trips can be spontaneous, there's also good reason to plan extensively. If today's jet hop isn't on the cards, start thinking about where you're going now if you can!