How to “Bend” Like a Local
Like many lovely places in the US and around the world, Bend has seen an influx of tourism, especially over the last couple of decades. While central Oregonians are happy to welcome newcomers to town, there’s no question that the rise of tourism has created unique challenges, the solutions to which require us to act from our best and our highest.
Here’s a quick crash course on how to Bend like a local.
Slow down. Then slow down some more.
One of the truly restorative aspects of being in Bend, is the way time can slow and expand while you’re here. Things can take a long time. If you’re coming in from a busy city where you’re used to things happening quickly — and your mind is conditioned to this —the slowness of roundabouts, lines, and interactions may seem … uncomfortable. Take Jackson’s Corner for example, or McKay Cottage (two of our favorites). At Jacksons, it’s not unusual to spend 30, 45, 60 minutes or more in line just to order on a busy weekend.
Maddening? I know. Me, too.
At first.
Gradually, I began to see these expansions of my expectations as another facet of my yoga practice. And then I began to love it. So many sweet conversations have happened with strangers while waiting in a brunch line, once I let go of expecting things to go fast. There’s a simple but sustaining joy in waiving a fellow traveller ahead at a 4-way stop. The waiting stops being a nuisance: it becomes openness, fun, and a chance to truly notice who and what is around us.
For me, “Bend time” went from being a source of irritation to being another great part of the experience.
Slow down. There’s truly no rush.
Tip as well as you possibly can.
One of the aspects of Bend culture that I adore is its culture of kindness. Many have said it but it bears repeating: it can still feel like a very small town, where neighbors personally know and care deeply about each other.
Unfortunately, as the cost of housing has exploded here as most everywhere, our front-line workers have been squeezed (and that’s really putting it mildly). While whether to tip and how much is a personal decision that we respect, it’s important to give a shout out to all those who show up to ensure that others have a great time. Please remember to show these unsung essential workers your love and appreciation. Another way to practice ahimsa and aparigraha? And it might just help keep hard-working Bendites in Bend.
And don’t forget to tip your guides! Our outdoor guides in central Oregon are some of the best in the world. They have specialized training, the best equipment, and keep us safe when we try new adventures. Guides should be tipped at least 20% of the list price — not the discount price — of the tour you’re on. If you can, please do.
Take the Bend Pledge.
Visit Bend has done an amazing job of addressing how to love Bend gently, with their Take the Bend Pledge Campaign – and we invite you to do just that! Click the link, sign the pledge, and be entered into a drawing for an all expenses paid Bend vacation. Win-win!
