Do I Look Like A Tour Guide?
My last post reminded me of this morning’s dog walk, and the last few walks I’ve had where people either stop in their cars and ask me questions or ask me for directions while I’m at a stop light (when I’m walking White Dog, I’m usually moving at about 4 m.p.h. and most people just leave me alone).
Honestly, I enjoy answering any questions about downtown- I would love to be the Ambassador to Downtown (as long as “WTF” and “STFU” were part of allowed responses). This morning’s question really hit home, though. I was at corner of Main and 1st, and there was a rally of sorts (politcal? probably, as I could not understand the lady that was spouting some sort of rhetoric about what, I could not figure out- not to be racist, but I am pretty sure it was some sort of Obama gathering).
Anyway, this cute couple approached me and asked “Where the nearest Mall was?” - I was flumoxed as I knew the Los Angeles Mall was closed on weekends- and my brain was jumping ahead- why did they want a Mall? The Gap? Macy’s? Then the guy clarifies- they really want a public restroom. Now that I can empathize with- I point them to the New Otani (Grand Kyocera) hotel and say that’s probably the best bet.
Lately I’ve been stopped with all types of random requests- some guy in car on Hill Street asking for a 500-block address that was on the Pershing Square side wanted to argue with me that it had to be there- ok, you’re right, dude.
I guess that walking a dog gives me the look like I live local and may actually know a little about the area. I love to help people, and will pull off the headphones for anybody that asks me a question (besides “dollah”- DnA you know what I mean :-). If I can make downtown a better place to visit for just one person, I am happy.
Hey E - I blogged about the same thing a while back. I am constantly asked for directions - where is the Disney Center? Where’s Hollywood? Where’s Figuerora seems to be a popular one … How can I find the nearest Wells Fargo ATM?
It happens 90% of the time with Carter and I think people just feel more comfortable seeing a person with a dog.
The only thing I’m missing is a purple shirt and a big hat.
October 12th, 2008 at 3:57 pmUse my standard line:
Make five rights and then a left!
October 13th, 2008 at 12:55 pmOfficer- that’s too funny- but I know you would not do that to these poor folks that I sometimes run into. I mean the tourists today that asked for a bathroom, they asked WHERE THEY WERE? Hello, downtown Los Angeles (they were Asians- no racism, just sayin…)
October 13th, 2008 at 7:46 pmTourist: Where am I?
Officer: You are here. Take care……
(Rides away into sunset)
October 14th, 2008 at 9:36 pmDude- when the “where are we”? comment came I was more confused then the tourists- WTF?? That is called “CITY HALL” that you are in front of. I should have just pointed to that big-ass sign with all the desinations on it right next to where we were, at NE corner of Main and 1st St. That thing is more confusing than Chinese Calculus.
October 15th, 2008 at 3:22 amYou should wear a shirt that says “I AM a tour guide” and charge for directions … charge more for accurate directions.
October 17th, 2008 at 3:39 pm