If you’re planning to visit a new city, there are some things you can do to have an amazing and deep experience rather than just ticking off the touristy spots.
Have a look at this list:
- Stay with locals via couchsurfing or Airbnb. They might have some great tips on where to go (and how), what to see and where to eat – off the beaten path.
- If you don’t speak the local language, make sure you learn the basics, at least ‘hello’, ‘yes’, ‘no’ and ‘help’. Try Duolingo for free lessons.
- Do your research and find out in general what you’d like to do and see (and which areas to avoid), e.g. using a Lonely Planet, on TripAdvisor or Wikitravel.
- Don’t get too hooked up on the touristy things. See a few « main » things, then ditch your travel guide and just wander around… You’ll be amazed at the random adventures you’ll have! If distances are too far, try public transport or hire a bicycle (TripGo‘s your friend).
- Make sure you pack a backpack with a few essentials when you head out (e.g. umbrella, hat, sunscreen, bandaids, sunglasses, the address of where you’re staying, some cash)
- Go out to a local market, cafe or pub and talk to staff or a friendly stranger about the city, find out what they like about it and why and get some recommendations.
- Get a taste of the local cuisine, maybe even do a cooking course if time & budget permit.
- Take photos to visually document your experiences.
- Also keep a diary. Really, take a few minutes every evening and write down how your day was and add anything you’d like to remember. That way you can look back in a few years and recreate how you were feeling much better than just through photos.
- Keep smiling and enjoy getting to know the city!
And if you’re not traveling anytime soon – try these tips at home and get to know your city from a whole new angle.
Do you have any tips for traveling off the beaten path? Share them in the comments below!
Image credits
Title picture: « Photographer Tourist Snapshot Taking Photos » by SplitShire
Golden Gate Bridge: « Golden Gate Bridge San Francisco California » by Unsplash