In Paul Bowles' book, "The Sheltering Sky," he contrasts tourists and travelers. Tourists tend to uncritically accept their own culture and surroundings. They participate in experiences without questioning their values or the limitations of their civilization.
In contrast, travelers engage in a deeper analysis of the world around them. They observe their own society as well as others and are willing to challenge and reject aspects of their own culture that do not resonate with them. This critical perspective allows travelers to gain a more nuanced understanding of different civilizations.