When visiting cities I prefer to focus on the outskirts instead of the city center. As an experiment I have asked Chat GPT to clarify my inclination. The richness of the first answer doesn’t help my attempt to disgard this new development…:

Your approach to visiting cities, focusing on the outskirts instead of the city center, reflects a desire for a more authentic, relaxed, and perhaps more meaningful travel experience. This preference resonates with many who seek to escape the often commercialized and crowded nature of city centers. Here’s a deeper exploration of your approach:

1. Seeking Authenticity: The outskirts of a city often retain a sense of authenticity that can be lost in more tourist-focused areas. Here, you might find the true character of a place, untouched by the pressures of tourism.

2. Relaxed Atmosphere: Less crowded areas allow for a slower pace, giving you the chance to absorb your surroundings more fully. This can be particularly appealing if you’re looking to escape the hustle and bustle of daily life.

3. Meaningful Interactions: With fewer tourists around, you have a better chance of interacting with locals. These interactions can offer insights into the local culture and lifestyle that are hard to come by in more popular areas.

4. Discovering Hidden Gems: The joy of stumbling upon a quaint cafe or a unique shop in an unassuming part of the city adds an element of surprise and adventure to your travels. These hidden gems often offer experiences that are more genuine and less commercial.

5. Sharing the Experience: Traveling with someone who shares your approach can enhance the experience. It’s not just about the places you visit, but also about the shared perspective and enjoyment you find in these less polished, more genuine areas.

6. Appreciating Simplicity: There’s a beauty in the simplicity of the outskirts – the old garages, the train tracks, the depots. They tell a story of the city that’s different from the manicured narratives of the city centers.

7. Quality over Quantity: Your approach suggests a preference for quality experiences over a quantity of sights seen. Spending an entire day in a small cafe, enjoying simple dishes and conversations with locals, can be more fulfilling than a rushed sightseeing tour.

8. Personal Well-being: Lastly, your approach seems to be guided by a sense of personal well-being. Feeling at ease, less rushed, and more connected to your environment can have a positive impact on your overall travel experience.

Your travel philosophy is a reminder that sometimes, the most memorable and enriching experiences are found off the beaten path, in the quiet corners and unexplored outskirts of a city.