Great piece. One additional question to add to your boyfriend’s: Not just why do tourists go to touristy places, but why do LOCALS go to many of these places as well? For example, living in Seattle, on any given weekend you can find as many locals shopping at Pike Place Market as tourists. Some places are popular because they are special…for all sorts of people, all of whom can have their own genuine experience. Where technology helps is in getting more up-to-date info (as you note)on when you can visit without all the crowds. Thanks for raising some really good points.