When planning a trip, there are certain tourist spots you just can’t skip. Think of Paris without the Eiffel Tower or Iceland without the Golden Circle. However, your travel time is precious, so it’s important to be smart about avoiding crowds and unnecessary expenses.
One of the best ways to truly experience a destination is to travel like a local. This approach allows you to dive deep into the culture and uncover hidden gems that most tourists miss. Avoid the typical tourist traps and aim for a more authentic experience.
First and foremost, consider traveling during the off-season or the shoulder season rather than the high season. High season is not only the most expensive time to travel but also the busiest. Being surrounded by swarms of tourists can make it difficult to slow down and appreciate your surroundings. Research the busiest times for your desired destination and plan to visit outside of those dates. Flexible travel dates can lead to a more relaxed experience and often come with cost savings on flights, activities, and accommodations. Tools like Skyscanner allow you to select the ‘cheapest month’ for an idea of when to go.
In the same vein, find out the best times to visit popular attractions and plan your visits either early in the morning or later in the day to avoid peak hours. Sure, peak times might offer better lighting for photos or a more pleasant climate, but fewer crowds can make for a more memorable experience rather than just the perfect Instagram shot.
If you don’t speak the local language, take some time to learn a few key phrases. You don’t need to become fluent, but knowing how to say basic things like ‘thank you,’ ‘hello,’ and ‘goodbye’ can go a long way. Locals will appreciate your effort to speak their language, and it might even break the ice, leading to more interesting interactions.
Using local transportation such as subways, buses, or boats can be a game-changer for both your experience and your wallet. It offers a chance to mingle with residents and soak in the local culture. You might even end up getting recommendations for the best bars and restaurants or an invitation to a local event.
When it comes to dining, ignore the obvious tourist traps where restaurant staff beg for your business. Instead, look for eateries packed with locals, even if the menu is in a language you don’t understand. Doing some research on the local cuisine beforehand can also be helpful. Learning the names of popular dishes can make ordering easier and more enjoyable.
Finally, don’t forget to take some time to simply wander around and explore at your own pace. Find a cozy coffee shop where you can relax for a couple of hours. Whether you interact with locals or just people-watch, this can be a great way to become more familiar with the local culture. Plus, sitting in a coffee shop often leads to spontaneous conversations, possibly even making new friends without any specific effort.