As any blogger knows, developing a relationship with one’s readers is vital. At the same time, going through the comments that readers post can be harrowing. Under cloak of Internet anonymity, will they go for your jugular? Or just your balls? Will they praise the post you put together, half hung over, one morning while brushing your teeth, and pan the one you carefully crafted over weeks of research? Did any of them even really read the article?
Well, today, when I fully announced my retirement from the Frugal Traveler column, I got a nice surprise: love—lots of it—in the comments section.
It’s funny, when I was out there doing this job, I always felt just like a regular traveler trying to get through a challenging adventure. I knew that at the end, people would be reading about it, but that concept seemed so distant, so unimaginably ridiculous, that it was never until much later–like, maybe, today–that I realized how much effect my time on the road would have on people I’d never met.
Anyway, it’s a nice feeling to have people say they appreciate what you’ve done for them (I hope one day Sasha expresses a similar sentiment) and for that, I’m tearing up with gratitude.
But only a little.
I got misty one time too, when my friend took a bullet for me. Don’t sweat it.
Thanks Matt…and for reminding me that life is truly about connecting with people..
Great premise and a job well done Matt!
I’ve had a similar idea brewing in my head for a while.
Seriously, did you hand “over” or “in” your badge?
And can you suggest who I might contact with a proposal?
As an ethnographer, my emphasis might have a slight shift of emphasis (which may dodge the frugal debate): focusing on meeting the people and the cultural other side. And of course frugally. But no tourism at all and less about travel tips; more a search for character and different ways of life in a time when understanding other cultures and correcting stereotypes is essential.
This was in your work too and why I read it- not to help plan my next trip.
…So what do you say, will you give me a contact tip? Or one small remark on how you got started?
Best of luck with the next chapter in your life!
Best,
Deb
Matt – I always read all of your frugal travel info- print, kindle, online & Twitter.
Wish you well in the future. Will continue to follow you on Twitter to get great travel info.
Best of luck in the future
Jeff
(in seattle)