This Was Anthony Bourdain's Most Important Travel Tip

Fans of Anthony Bourdain may never fully know the inner workings of the widely popular chef, author, and television host, but "World Travel: An Irreverent Guide", a compilation of Bourdain's commentary and observations, offers a glimpse into the mindset of a man who reveled in life's simple pleasures despite the darkness that occasionally overshadowed his joie de vivre. Assembled by Bourdain's long-time associate, Laurie Woolever (via Eater), the book is a celebration of exploration featuring anecdotes, advice, and observations about the difference between visiting a destination and really connecting with a place and its people. 

In short, pretty sage wisdom as we contemplate traveling again in a post-pandemic world. One of Bourdain's greatest travel tips to keep in mind? Slow down and get rid of your preconceived notions (via Independent). For instance, even Bourdain, a famously devoted New Yorker, had to admit that he actually liked NYC cultural rival Los Angeles when he took the city up on its own terms. But there's an even better travel tip of Bourdain's to remember in the years ahead.

"World Travel: An Irreverent Guide" also features essays written by some of Bourdain's closest friends and associates, including Nari Kye (via NPR), a production manager for No Reservations. Kye, who emigrated from Korea to the United States when she was 5 years old, accompanied Bourdain to her native country in the mid-2000s to film an episode. 

During the episode, Bourdain and Kye hit the ground running, heading straight from the airport to Seoul's street markets and the Noryangjin fish market. The duo also savored a spicy fish stew with Kye's grandfather. It's that classic Bourdain personal connection that makes all the difference — and leads us to his most important travel tip.

Whether he was in Korea or Croatia, Burgundy or Brooklyn, Anthony Bourdain connected with people and brought people together. As we dust off our passports and pull out our luggage, let's do our best to remember that a destination is more than a place on a map. It's the sum of its history, culture, food, and most of all, its people. Or as Anthony Bourdain said himself (via Independent), "So many of the good times traveling this world relate directly to finding a human face to associate with your destination, the food you eat, and the memories you'll keep forever."