Have you ever wondered how to make the most out of your trip? Ever wondered where those secret, off-the-beaten-path adventures are? It’s actually really easy to find out, and it all comes down to this: living like a local. There are really only two ways to travel: by visiting and by touring. You visit family, live with them, and see all the wonderful places they know and love. You tour far away places, with no guidance other than your own knowledge to keep you from a weekend full of tourist traps and mediocre food. I’ve traveled both ways, and believe me when I tell you: visiting is the way to go. Not only is it more sustainable, you tend to have a much better experience overall! So, if you’re like me and prefer living like a local over touring, there are a few very simple steps you can take to do so. First off, visit local, mom-and-pop businesses over larger (or foreign-owned) establishments. I’m not saying a Starbucks every now and then when you’re feeling homesick is a bad thing, just that you’ll have a much richer, more interesting experience if you step outside of your comfort zone--like I did in San Francisco, when I took an impromptu music lesson! My second point ties into this: if you’re going to take a tour, opt for one which is locally-guided--you know, by the people who actually live in the area--over larger chains. I’ve tried both, and while they both have their perks, I’ve found that locally-guided tours tell me so much more about what the place I’m visiting is really like. Finally, make friends! I’m an anxious person, so the idea of chatting with complete strangers is always a little nerve-wracking, but even for people who don’t tend to travel with extroverted friends like I do, there are still ways of getting to know the people you’re visiting with minimal stress. The people at the front desk where you’re staying are bound to have some good ideas. Even budgeting for a drink or two out in a local pub is sure to help you meet new people with their own list of can’t-miss spots.
Whatever you do, be open to new adventures. Be willing to pick something new over something familiar to you--after all, isn’t a large part of travel having new experiences? Do you have any tips for how to travel like a visitor instead of a tourist? I’d love to read your comments on living like a local down below!
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Hi, there! Call me Kris. I’m a world traveler, author and artist working to showcase the world's beauty and inspire you to find your confidence to see the world!
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