I've recently made the conscious decision to explore and document my adventures. However, it continues to surprise me that there's such a negative connotation behind being a "tourist."

I love being a tourist. The term "tourist" seems to apply exclusively to those who don't have permanent residence in trendy areas and to those who visit popular destinations. But even when I visit certain hotspots in my own city, I'm deemed a tourist.

Going to school out of state has made me more appreciative of my Southern California residence. Before heading to school, I never took the time to appreciate all the great things about SoCal that I took for granted. Luckily, I've shaped up a bit. Now, every time I visit home, I make the best of my visits and avidly explore. I make sure to stop by my favorite places to eat, soak up some rays at the beach, and photograph everything and anything that stands out to me.

So I advise that people smile at tourists — after all, they're appreciating the things that make your city fun and unique. In addition, be a tourist yourself! Explore and enjoy what every destination has to offer. You may even find something unexplored.