Beene Cheela

What are the similarities between a tenant and a traveler?

• A tenant never feels a psychological sense of belonging to the place. Like a traveler, they are more inclined to escapism. They don’t concern themselves unduly with political or infrastructure changes that might affect their current surroundings. This is because they always have the option to escape, to find a new place, and start everything fresh.
• Neither tenants nor travelers necessarily feel the need to befriend their neighbors. Unburdened by the obligations of long-term commitment, they understand the brevity of their stay and the limited potential for deep relationships. This awareness is often mutual, as native residents or owner-neighbors might also hold back from investing in close ties with someone likely to move on soon.
• Both travelers and tenants can sometimes unintentionally influence the character of a place rather than adapting themselves. Unfamiliar with local customs, they may introduce their own traditions and be less inclined to readily embrace the existing culture. This can sometimes lead to a less than diligent adherence to established rules and regulations. Consider, for example, a housing community where residents, both permanent and temporary, have an established understanding regarding the use of shared resources like swimming pools, parking spaces, and water. Written rules might exist, but it’s often social awareness and the fear of community disapproval that drive responsible behavior. In such a scenario, a new tenant lacking long-term commitment may indeed be more susceptible to the “tragedy of the commons,” potentially exploiting those resources without consequences.
• Though tenants or tourists may harbor an illusion of belonging, the place rarely embraces them whole-heartedly. A temporary resident will not, in most cases, become part of the locals’ inner circle, and this can hinder their grasp of the critical nuances of the local culture.