Monday, January 28, 2008

Split the Difference, Discover the Quirky

With the ever decreasing size of social networks thanks to the internet and really, in my opinion, a much more outgoing generation that's just beginning to dawn, the truth is -- the earth hasn't actually changed in shape whatsoever. Items like IM'ing, Facebooking, texting...blogging, have attempted to decrease the space between us. However, as great as these tools are, we all know none of these can replace being physically in each other's presence.

And while the virtual world is shrinking, transportation expenses are rising.

Scenario
Suppose Jim lives in Minneapolis, MN and has a friend, Jill, who lives in Des Moines, IA. Jim and Jill chat, text, and FBook all the time but Jim longs to visit Jill in real life more often. Sure, he's been to Des Moines to visit, and Jill has been to Minneapolis as well. But these moments seem to be few and far between.

Change the Destination, But Don't Define It
Why does Jim have to go to Des Moines? Why does Jill have to go to Minneapolis? What if instead they were to:

- Get in their cars and leave their towns at the exact time heading towards each other.
- Call each other en route and then when they cross paths, stop at whatever the nearest town is and visit the local cafe or restaurant, or ma and pa shop, or perhaps a tourist trap.


Accomplishment
Now, Jim and Jill have both split a full trip in half and made new memories in a completely random stop they would not have had otherwise had desire to visit.

The Dream
This idea should avoid chain restaurants and be planned spontaneously if possible. Road trippers should connect with locals in the town and share a conversation or more. This idea can also grow to larger distances than just regional. Cameras naturally are encouraged. And through this idea, new communities can be discovered and all parties involved will benefit.



I have a feeling that recurring theme throughout this blog will be road trip ideas. Read about one this fan participated in with other avid enthusiasts: www.campaignforcommunity.com

Peace, love and open road.

DP

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