Over the past few weeks more and more tourist destinations, especially museums, have banned the use of selfie sticks, those retractable cane-like gadgets with prongs for your phone. In theory the selfie stick helps people take photos of themselves anytime, anyplace, but places like The National Gallery in London, Versailles Palace outside Paris, and the Art Institute in Chicago are saying they're a no-go.

I think the ban is the way to go. I first saw selfie sticks in Colombia when it seemed like everyone had them around the major tourist areas. And with the plethora of stick-wielding vacationers came some very clear issues...

Selfie sticks are distracting- for everyone. My first issue is that selfie sticks are a major distraction. When they're fully engaged, the sticks take up a lot of space and the people using them aren't paying attention to anything going on around them. And then the rest of us have to watch people trying to capture their best Kim K. impression in front of a Madonna and Child. Fabulous, but don't worry, you look totally cool taking those profile pics. I recommend the Lo-Fi filter.

Selfie sticks can be hazardous. Distraction is definitely hazardous to your health. I've seen people walking around with their selfie stick out in front of them, maybe trying to take a video, but mostly seemingly looking to bump into people or knock things over.

Selfie sticks don't add to your experience. When you're busy trying to get your perfect selfie, you're not paying attention to whatever you came to see in the first place, whether it's priceless art or breathtaking scenery. Put down the stick and enjoy. And if you have to have a snapsnot, ask someone to take your picture- you know, like your Mom taught you.

Am I totally off base? Are selfie sticks the way to go or will they go the way of enormous video cameras and tripods?

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