Regardless of where you travel, you need to put yourself in the moment of being in a particular place at a particular time. Each destination will offer something different than the last place you visited or any other place you’ve been. Below are some suggestions on how to best cope in a new travel situation without standing out like the wayward tourist you might feel like.
Tips
- Sample the local candy.
- Ask your waitress what she recommends on the menu (or what good dishes aren’t even listed on the menu).
- Bargain where appropriate but beware that in many cultures, if you reach an agreed price on an item, there is an expectation that you will purchase it.
- Stop by the local supermarket and browse the aisles for an insiders’ look into the local culture.
- Walk even a few blocks away from the touristy areas of a town for a more authentic local experience. This is where you’ll find locals dining and shopping, kids playing soccer, choirs practicing in churches and neighborhood-sized events.
- Evenings in the desert can be cool even in the summer. If you are planning a trip to a desert area, pack a sweatshirt or jacket and be prepared for chilly temperatures once the sun goes down.
- Search for food beyond your guidebook. The key to finding great local cuisine for half the price is asking locals where they like to eat.
Related Posts
