Traveling is one of my favorite hobbies. Whether I’m flying to Europe or exploring a new city in the United States, I love tasting new foods, exploring amazing sights, and meeting new people. Travel brings many wonderful experiences, but are there such wonderful experiences? Felt like a long-distance tourist. Of course, by definition, I’m a tourist when I travel, but I don’t want everyone to know that just by looking at me. From my own travels – and thanks to my adventurous sister – I’ve learned some travel tips that incorporate them that have made my trip even better. Here’s how to stop feeling like a tourist while traveling and start living like a local:
1. Do Your Research, But Leave Room for Spontaneity
Before I travel anywhere, I always research where to stay, what to do, where to eat, and of course where to get the best coffee. The key to researching destinations is to think like a local, not a tourist. Ditch your guidebook and head to social media for some local recommendations. Find local influencers and check out the latest posts from different locations to see what’s trending every day. This will help motivate your travel packing list, itinerary, and budget.
2. Stay off the Beaten Track
The hotel is very convenient, but most chain hotels are the same everywhere they go. When booking a trip, consider locally owned hostels, Airbnb or VRBO accommodations, hostels, and even the option of sharing a room if you’re staying for a while. When you find a place of interest, you can look up the business or community on TikTok or Instagram to see real photos of past trips.
3. Don’t Leave Your Hobbies at Home
This advice is especially suitable for all of us who like to travel alone. At your destination, find a place where you can pursue your favorite hobby. Sign up for a drawing class or fitness class, explore your local bookstore, or simply grab a beer at a local brewery. This allows you to meet locals who share your interests. You might get some new connections or unique recommendations about food, drinks, and activities, and maybe even insider information on the best secret locations.
4. Avoid Tourist Traps
I’ve visited many clichéd places on my travels: Broadway, Times Square, Beanie, Hollywood Boulevard, Eiffel Tower – the list goes on. These are all great sites to check your wish list, but they’re definitely not the place for locals to spend their time. Think of places you frequented in your own city, such as art galleries, small boutiques, farmers’ markets, or hiking trails, and then research local options for your destination. You will experience what you love through a whole new perspective.
5. Eat Where the Locals Eat
If a restaurant has long lines around the block, there’s a chance it’s really delicious, or maybe it’s just listed as the number one must-try restaurant in the city on Yelp. For the tastiest, most authentic food, look for restaurants packed with locals, not the ones most often mentioned in travel guides. Don’t know where to start? Ask your Airbnb hosts or acquaintances, check hashtags on social media, or just explore! Some of the best restaurants I’ve tried over the years are small, family-run restaurants that are definitely not listed on the travel website (but worth listing).
6. Use Public Transportation
There’s no better way to get around a city like a local than by public transport. Most major cities have robust metro or bus systems that can take you almost anywhere in town. If you are looking for a different mode of transportation, try renting a bike. Nowadays, bike rentals are everywhere and will give you a whole new perspective on getting around the city. Not only will you save a lot of money by opting for public transportation, but you’ll also get to see more cityscapes, and you might stumble upon hidden gems along the way!
7. Keep an Eye on Local Fashions
Of course, you want to look beautiful when you travel, and it’s always a good thing to let your personal style shine. But depending on where you travel, you should be aware of local fashions. For example, most Europeans don’t wear athleisure clothes when they’re out, and South American locals don’t wear shorts unless they’re at the beach. Wherever you’re going, be sure to dress appropriately, and if you’re worried about being eye-catching, it’s best to dress more conservatively.
8. Review Common Phrases
If you’re traveling to another country where English isn’t your first language, speaking only English is a must to make tourists stand out. Personally, I’m a big fan of Duolingo (not bragging, but I’ve been for 300 days straight now). This is a great way to brush up on useful phrases and quickly familiarize yourself with a new language. You don’t need to become fluent, but improving your language skills instead of a simple “hello” or “thank you” can make all the difference.