There are three basic modes of experiencing cultures beyond our own:

1. Vacationing. In which one travels, for example, half way around the world only to stay in a hotel and play golf. It's about resting rather than exploring.

2. Tourism. In which one travels to another country for a cocktail of shopping, sightseeing, dining and carefully staged simulations of the local culture. The culture is experienced as entertainment and exoticism.

3. Traveling. A rather neutral word, but meant to indicate a more purposeful, philosophical engagement with another culture. It is a combination of physical and mental exploration of a region. The traveler welcomes and embraces experiencing difference. People encountered become individuals, rather than generic others dressed in folkloric costumes. Travel is about deep discovery and personal transformation.

Vacationing leaves one rested. Tourism leaves one poorer—and with the additional problem of where to store all those colorful nick-nacks. Traveling leaves one mentally changed, forever.