Know Your Place

And mind the space!

Traveling to other cities simply for party’s sake is a luxury should you be fortunate to. As the days countdown, anticipation builds up a fantastical dreamscape in your mind. And then, whether for good or not so good- upon arrival, the bubble eventually bursts. Because things are rarely just as we’d imagine.

When charting unfamiliar territory, it’s only natural to compare and contrast to your homebase. Upon arrival your first clue could be differences in the queues. And who knows what’s in store on the other side of the door?!

Music just rings differently in different cities. And an earlier last call might catch you off guard. Regional dancefloor moves and/or etiquette might have you shook. Or the rules for shenanigans, whether allowed or forbade upon, might have you aghast. Whatever the reasons, a newly found space can easily leave you feeling out of place.

And there’s nothing wrong with mentioning it to a few friends- at least I hope not. But there is a breaking point. Which is when the bitching and kvetching is incessant and at anything at or near megaphone volume. Putting parties on blast, whether in IRL or passive aggressively online is gauche and sometimes…gross. Keep it cute- because you can always give yourself the boot, You know where the door is.

For those whose look of dismay lingers on their lips- especially on the spot; what did you expect?! The shangri-la of your dreams?! If so I have news- there’s a gazillion x infinity x squared reasons that things are the way they are. And for which you’re most likely unaware. So check yourself. Read the room. And perhaps the rules.

Spaces outside our normal haunts obviously exist- and they just might not be your ideal fit. And it’s spectacular that they do. That’s more for everyone- except for you.

But perhaps remember when visiting new places, that what one envisions isn’t usually the picture of perfection at the flip side of your mind.

So just what is the fine line between observation and flagrant disrespect?

Let’s play a lil Mad Lib to suss that out, shall we.

Holy <expletive>?! Can you believe <club, party or city name> <does or doesn’t allow> <verb> <shenanigans or rule or regulation>. That’s <generational word for dismay or amazement> as <expletive>! They <know or don’t know> what the <expletive> they’re doing!!

The variations are innumerable. You get the point.

It’s no shocker that things are different in different cities. And remember- you apparently left your hometown to travel for a new experience in a new city. Well...con-dragulations - you got exactly what you wished for.

So if you’re chomping at the bit, raising hell to boot; check your entitlement and perhaps habits. Whether raised in a barn or Ms Manners is your mom- respect and understanding makes for a good tourist and partygoer. And at the end of the day or night- if you’re a tourist, don’t be trashy and trash it. You’re a guest, so act like one.