Many travelers find comfort in staying inside resort boundaries or visiting just the popular attractions. However, their tales are all the same when they arrive home. Take the less-traveled route whether you’re traveling alone or with a group. Go to the left where fewer people are if you’re alone in a market. Ask the tour leader for suggestions for places to visit off the beaten route during your downtime if you’re exploring a new city in a group.
2. Take public transport
Using public transportation is the quickest method to live like a local since you can interact with regular people going about their daily lives, pick up a few essential phrases, and start a discussion.
3. Strike up a conversation
Start a conversation with the locals to turn your trip from average to spectacular. This, in my opinion, is the greatest approach to socialize and hone my language abilities.
4. Avoid the tacky souvenirs
When traveling, avoid purchasing the obvious memento to bring back home. Visit your neighborhood markets to discover truly local products. I could have purchased a lot of lanterns and slippers a la Aladdin from tourist traps when I was in Marrakech. Rather, I purchased a handwoven rug from an elderly woman who had been creating them for her entire life at a market, which I still treasure today.
5. Never miss a moment
Don’t get caught up in taking photos – yes, they are wonderful keepsakes to remind you of your travels when you get home, but often travellers get so distracted taking a photo that they miss the magic moments.
6. Eat somewhere local
Whenever I travel alone, I always ask locals to recommend their favorite eateries—that is, assuming they are willing to divulge their trade secrets! When I go on a group trip, I always ask the guide to recommend their best restaurants so I may indulge in them during my free time.
7. Get lost in the moment
When I travel, my favorite times are when I venture into the back streets and get lost while wandering aimlessly. If I start to feel anxious, I know I can always check my phone’s GPS or ask for directions; but, it’s these carefree moments that make me happiest.
8. Challenge yourself
Consume something novel. Talk to a complete stranger. Don’t make daily plans. For advice that only a local would know, ask your guide. Carry a carry-on with you. Avert the beaten route. Take a strenuous hike. Confront your worries. Keep a daily journal
9. Enjoy being a tourist
When I travel, I frequently lose track of where I am since I’m trying to see and do as much as I can. I’ve been traveling more thoughtfully this year and have just enjoyed exploring new places.
10. Live like a local
My favorite travel activity is this one, which you should do each time. Live like a local for at least one day in each destination. Start your day early with a cup of coffee from the neighborhood coffee shop, take public transportation, visit the grocery store to buy lunch ingredients, spend the afternoon strolling through the neighborhood park, and unwind in the evening with a meal at a restaurant that is only open to locals