How to Travel Like a Local

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By lipstickgirl
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Article Rating: (13 Ratings)

Enjoy travel away from the pack

The familiar saying of "when in Rome, do as the Romans do" holds true for individuals who seek an authentic and memorable travel experience. While many travelers prefer the convenience of tour groups, guides, and buses, this can be a costly and impersonal approach to discovering a new city or country. Travelers who invest the extra time and energy to explore on their own can gain a rich and gratifying travel experience.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

Internet Access
Travel Guidebook
Time & Patience
Willingness to Seek Advice
Some Spontaneity

Step 1

Research. Buy a detailed guidebook, such as Lonely Planet, that provides information on a city's background and culture, along with reviews of must see hangouts and destinations. Browse through travel websites like TripAdvisor or BootsnAll Travel to map out sights, local events, and read other traveler's comments in discussion forums. For domestic travel, the city's website and the online news source usually lists events on their monthly calendar, featured restaurants, and night life.
Step 2

Learn the language. For international travel, it's appreciated when the tourists attempt to speak the country's language. Useful phrases to memorize include: (1) Hello (2) Thank you (3) How are you? (4) Where is [name location]? (5) How much is it? (6) Do you speak English? For domestic travel, learn how to pronounce popular streets correctly (e.g. In New York City, Houston Street is pronounced "How-sten," not "Hew-sten") along with the local slang for common activities, such as ordering a coffee or drink.
Step 3

Metropolitan in Paris

Use public transportation. The best way to get a feel for the city's layout is to ride alongside with the locals. Utilize the city's subway, train, or bus system to get to your destination. With practice at using the transportation schedule and map, you will weave in and out of station lines like a savvy local in no time. You might also catch a glimpse of city culture in these stations, such as artwork, historical murals, billboard advertisements for city events, and street performers.
Step 4

Ask for the house specials!

Dine at the local eateries. In between wining and dining at popular four-star restaurants, don't forget to check out the hole-in-the-wall family run places. The food is typically cheaper and authentic. Many tourist hot spots tailor their menu to satisfy the tourists' palette, not the locals. Ask a local, such as the hotel concierge, coffee barista, waitress, or street vendor for his or her favorite dining spot. Chances are, it'll be a place that tourists do not frequent.
Step 5

Rome, Italy

Get lost. Seriously. Make a plan to explore a city's neighborhood, put the map and itinerary away, and take time to immerse yourself in the area. Meander through the streets, photograph scenes of interest, check out window displays, pop into a local boutique, or relax and people-watch at a café. As your own guide, there is no need to rush your way back, and you will truly discover a more personal and unique travel experience at your leisure.

Comments

Flybyknight said

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on 12/17/2009 I really liked this article. I really need a vacation right now.

midcenturymaven said

on 12/13/2009 Travelling like a local is also a great way to save money. And, often street food is the best food because the food vendors are so competitive and their business depends on it. Reminds me of my travelling days. I got lost in Florence once and it was wonderful because I met some beautiful people. Excellent advice!

dorigillman said

on 12/7/2009 good article. one other thing is to dress likethe locals. dont wear white sneakers whene veryone else in italy, for ie,is wearing black!!!