Why being late while travelling might be a good thing

It’s okay to sometimes slow down, dare to be late (but not too late!) and to “stop and smell the roses”. An in-depth and thematic tour of Hokkaido, Japan in 2016 led by Chua Lam. Photo: Apple Vacations

Last week, while browsing in Taipei’s famous bookstore, Eslite, I was, as usual, attracted by the books placed prominently on the best seller rack. One particular title stood out – Thank You for Being Late – by New York Times bestselling author Thomas L. Friedman.

The title startled and intrigued me because tour leaders often wish we could say something like that during a trip. Group tours run on tight schedules and the tour leader or guide has the responsibility of ensuring every member in the group keeps to the time.