How to Avoid Touristy Hotels While Traveling

It's hard to get a local's perspective on a city when you are staying in a high rise chain hotel. In most major cities across the world there is that densely packed area that exists only for tourists. Do whatever you can to avoid it. Not only will you save money, you will also get an insider's view of the city you are visiting.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Internet access
• Guide book

1. Save money by renting an apartment for your stay. Contrary to popular belief, you can rent an apartment for as short as a weekend. Renting apartments isn't limited to beach rentals or wealthy folks, check out craigslist for a number of short term rentals.
2. Opt for a smaller, family owned hotel. Look in your guide book or ask friends where the hip, local section of the city you are traveling to is. Then scour the internet for B&Bs in the area. You'll save money and also get local flavor.
3. When in doubt, crash on a friend's couch. Most people love house guests if the trip is kept under 72 hours. If you are crashing with a friend or a friend of a friend don't forget to bring gifts and take your hosts out to dinner. If you are staying in a city requires a lot of driving, chip in for gas. You'd be surprised how few people think to do that.
4. Try a couch surfing website. There are several services that function as social networking sites for low budget travelers. Often your host will offer to tour you around.