We’ve all seen them – the hordes of tourists swarming around must-see sights, cameras flashing, selfie sticks waving. Sometimes, it’s hard not to chuckle at the predictable behaviours. That’s where Tourist Bingo comes in! It’s a lighthearted way to turn those tourist clichés into a hilarious travel game. Think of it as your cheeky cheat sheet for spotting the most classic tourist antics at the world’s most famous landmarks.
Key Takeaways
- Tourist Bingo turns travel clichés into a hilarious game.
- It’s a lighthearted way to observe tourist behaviour.
- Don’t be afraid to embrace your inner tourist for a bit.
- Play Tourist Bingo solo or with friends for added fun.
- Travelling is about having fun, even with the predictable moments!
What is Tourist Bingo?
It’s simple! Before visiting a landmark, make a list of classic tourist behaviours you might see – think cheesy poses, tacky souvenirs, and those awkward attempts at pronouncing the local language. Your goal is to tick off as many as possible, just like in regular bingo. Up the ante by rewarding yourself with a local treat or beverage for every line you complete!
What are Travel Clichés?
Travel clichés are those predictable, overused behaviors, phrases, and ideas that pop up at tourist destinations worldwide. Here’s why they happen:
- The Guidebook Effect: Travel guides often list the “must-see” sights and “must-do” activities, leading to crowds and repeated experiences.
- Social Media Influence: Images of iconic landmarks and popular poses flood social media, inspiring people to recreate them.
- Seeking the Familiar: In unfamiliar places, people sometimes crave recognisable images, resulting in familiar photo poses or souvenir choices.
- The Joy of Shared Experience: Part of the fun of travel is connecting to a shared experience. Even if it’s a cliché, there’s comfort and amusement in those common tourist moments.
Common Travel Cliché Examples
Now that you know what they are, here are some classic travel cliché examples to look out for:
- Photo Poses: Pretending to hold up a building, kissing in front of a romantic landmark, fake-sleeping with your head on a tray table on the plane.
- Food Choices: Seeking out familiar fast-food chains instead of trying local cuisine.
- Phrases: Saying things like “been there, done that,” “this is the real (city name),” or complaining about everything being “so touristy.”
- Souvenirs: Buying mass-produced trinkets, “I heart (city)” shirts, or miniature versions of famous sights.
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Spotting the Travel Clichés
The Selfie Stick Shuffle
You know this dance! It’s the frantic jostling for the perfect angle, the awkward contortions to fit the whole landmark in, and the endless stream of near-identical photos. Don’t forget to look out for bonus selfie stick acrobatics near precarious edges or in busy crowds!
The Awkward Pose Extravaganza
Tourists love recreating iconic images. That means you might see folks pretending to hold up the Leaning Tower of Pisa, “pinch” the top of the Eiffel Tower, or kiss their partner as the Statue of Liberty watches awkwardly.
“I Heart (City)” Mania
Nothing screams “tourist” like those ubiquitous t-shirts, mugs, and keychains declaring undying love for their current location. Extra points if they’re sporting them with socks and sandals!
Popular Travel Bingo Locations
Play Tourist Bingo at the Eiffel Tower
Kissing Under the Lights
Paris is the city of love, and the Eiffel Tower is its heartthrob. Prepare for a flood of romantic clichés – couples twirling under the sparkling lights, passionate proposals, and endless lockets of love attached to every available railing. (they will be removed)
The Picnic Predicament
Despite overpriced snacks on every corner, there will always be those tourists determined to have a picnic on the Champ de Mars. Look out for elaborate spreads, precariously balanced bottles of wine, and inevitable battles with hungry pigeons.
Related articles: France Travel Guides
Play Tourist Bingo at the Leaning Tower of Pisa
The Classic “Holding It Up” Pose
This is the king of tourist clichés! Expect to see a sea of hands outstretched, fingers pinched, and bodies twisted as tourists attempt to “prop up” the Leaning Tower.
The Optical Illusion Extravaganza
Tourists love playing with perspective around the Leaning Tower. Look for people “kicking” the top, pretending to lean impossibly without falling, and even lining up dozens of photos in a row for the ultimate optical illusion masterpiece.
The Grass Loungers
The grassy field surrounding the Leaning Tower is prime people-watching territory. You’ll spot folks napping in the sun, enjoying picnics with a “tilt,” and kids rolling down the slightly slanted lawn.
The Souvenir Scramble
Pisa has mastered the art of “leaning merch.” Expect stalls overflowing with miniature leaning towers (in every possible material), Pisa-themed apparel, and some truly questionable novelty items.
The Language Barrier Struggle
Ordering gelato, buying tickets, and asking for directions can become hilarious charade-like spectacles. Be prepared for creative gestures, exaggerated pronunciation, and the occasional game of multilingual telephone.
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Play Tourist Bingo at Buckingham Palace
The Guard Fascination
Those stoic guards in their bearskin hats are a fascination for tourists. Expect crowds gathered for the perfect photo, hopeful kids waving to see if they can get a smile, and whispered debates about whether they’re “real.” (Yes they are very real, and do not touch)
Royal-Themed Everything
London goes all out for its royalty. Look for shops overflowing with King Charles tea towels, crown-shaped cookies, and enough Union Jack flags to outfit an army. Bonus points if you find Mr Bean souvenirs!
Related articles: England Travel Guides
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is it mean to play Tourist Bingo?
Absolutely not! It’s about having fun and observing human behavior with a lighthearted touch.
Can I play solo?
Of course! It’s a great way to stay entertained while people-watching.
What if I feel guilty taking photos?
Don’t! Embrace your inner tourist for a little while.
Do I need a special bingo card?
Nope, a notebook or your phone works perfectly.
Can I make up my own clichés?
Totally! The more creative, the better!
Final Thoughts
Let’s face it, we’re all a little bit cliché when travelling. Tourist Bingo is about letting loose and embracing the joy of exploring, even if it comes with some predictable moments. So, next time you’re at a famous landmark, keep your eyes peeled and a sense of humour close – bingo awaits! It’s only a bit of fun!
Which landmark would you love to play Tourist Bingo at? Share your funniest tourist cliché sightings in the comments!
Related articles: Family Travel Guides , Get Inspired Travel Guides
Recommended websites and sources: Get your Tourist Bingo cards on Etsy
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