Vacations are the perfect time to immerse yourself into a new culture. Many people like to feel like they are part of a new community and experience what everyday life is like there. So how can you feel like a local when you are a tourist? Sounds impossible? Here are 15 ways to travel like a local:
STAY IN A CONDO OVER A HOTEL
If you want to travel like a local, a condo/townhouse/house will surround you in everyday life. Staying at your own place lets you immerse yourself into the community. Enjoy some coffee in your backyard, people-watch from your front stoop, and say hello to your new neighbors. Check out my article on how to choose the perfect rental.
WHEN TRAVELING TRY THE LOCAL CUISINE
Even if it’s not something you ever thought you’d eat, when traveling, it’s always fun to sample local food. Puffin, octopus, pig ear, and squid are all food that my girls have tried on vacation. I always order local fish and I research local dishes to try while we’re there.
DON’T TAKE TOURS
Yes, a tour is the easiest way to see the sights, but wouldn’t you rather be in control of your vacation? Going out on your own allows you to set your itinerary, determine when you’ll do things, and stop whenever the scenery calls to you. In Iceland, our fondest memories were made by just driving around exploring different areas.
LEARN KEY PHRASES
No one is expecting you to speak the language fluently, but a few key phrases can make a difference. “Thank you, please, and hello,” are always appreciated. Even if you think you sound silly, people will appreciate you made the effort.
TRAVEL DURING LOW SEASON
Not only will you find better deals, but you will also find kinder locals. Imagine how grouchy you would be if your beautiful town was inundated with tourists every summer. During low season the locals seem friendlier and more willing to talk to tourists.
GET LOST
Traveling like a local means put that guide-book down and just start walking! Stroll down winding cobblestone streets until you find an adorable café, boutique, or chapel. Some of the best meals we’ve had when traveling were found down an alley while we were wandering.
USE LOCAL MARKETS AND FARM STANDS WHEN TRAVELING
Some of the best ways to experience local food is buying it from the people who grow it. We love to stay in and cook one meal on vacation using local ingredients we’ve bought at the market. Locally made bread, cheese, fruit, and vegetables make the perfect meal. Trying something new? Ask the vendor how they like to prepare it.
DON’T EAT AT CHAINS
When eating out, find a place away from crowds. Family owned restaurants that make traditional cuisine are usually a good choice. Try to avoid chain restaurants. Do you really need a Starbucks right now? Vacation is the perfect time to try new food.
BE RESPECTFUL
Tourists don’t always have the best reputation when traveling. Always be respectful to locals since you are on their turf. When you are in nature, always take out what you bring in and don’t disturb national monuments.
DRESS LIKE A LOCAL
There is a huge difference between how you dress in Paris and how you dress in Iceland. Before packing, research the style of your destination. Do people dress up for dinners? Will you be eating at casual pubs? Try not to stand out too much with your wardrobe. The key is to blend in.
START TALKING
You can get the best recommendations for restaurants and activities from cab drivers, waiters, doormen, and hotel staff. We learn a lot about different cultures while riding in cabs. We’ve had cab drivers teach the girls about what their schools are like, what people do for a living, and the sad poverty that exists there. Don’t hesitate to ask questions because most locals love to share about their culture.
DO THINGS LATER
When in Europe, we eat dinner at 9:00, go to bed at 11:00 and wake up at 9:00. Our American schedule goes out the window and we adapt to our surroundings.
TAKE NAPS
Ok…maybe we don’t take actual naps, but we do have downtime in the afternoon as we rest up for our night. That’s when the girls play on electronics or watch a movie and we read a book on a hammock. Take full advantage of “siesta” time!
TAKE PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION
Public transportation can show you what everyday life is like. You’ll see people heading to work or running errands. Traveliong on public transportation will make you feel like you are part of the local community.
OK…BE A TOURIST
Places are tourist attractions because they have things that should be seen! Don’t try so hard to be a local that you skip popular attractions. In Iceland, go swim in the Blue Lagoon. In Rome, go see the Colosseum. In Athens, walk among the ruins of the Parthenon. You’ll regret it if you miss these once-in-a-lifetime experiences.
How do you travel like a local?
