The Skinny On How To Travel Like A Local

By Charles Williams


The goal of traveling to a different country is not to just explore what the country has to offer, but really bask in the environment and the culture of the place. The only way to do that would be to travel like a local instead of a tourist. In order to do that, it is important to take note of a few things before one goes to the destination.

As a seasoned traveler, one has to first do the necessary homework on the places he or she wants to go. In other words, make a comprehensive itinerary as to prepare for the trip. The first thing that one has to do is to choose a place to stay and do a study on the surroundings.

The next thing that one should do would be to list down all the places and the tourist attractions that he or she may want to visit. For instance, if one is going to Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, one should jot down that he or she wants to visit the Twin Towers, KLCC, KL Tower, and Jalan Alor. That way, one will be ready upon the arrival in the said destination.

Of course, the regular tourists will also do this but seasoned travelers go the extra mile. While a tourist would do some surface research on where to go and what to do, seasoned travelers would go on the specifics. That is why most seasoned travelers will know exactly what to do and where to go when in the destination.

For example, Jalan Alor Night Market in Kuala Lumpur is known for its food. Tourists would usually go there and ask the locals which foods are the best to buy or just try everything. Seasoned travelers, on the other hand, would research what the best foods are in the area and try them out.

If ever one plans to go to tourist spots, then it is also best he or she does the same thing. The same intensity of research must be done no matter where one decides to go. For tourist spots, it is important that one would do some research on the specific activities to do as well as the specific places to eat in the area and specific things to look at.

Lastly, research on the commuter options around the country such as the bus lines, the trains, and the more exotic modes of transport like the Tuktuk in Thailand or the Jeepney in Philippines. If one familiarizes him or herself with the commuter options, one will really be able to appreciate the surroundings of the area. Sure, it is more convenient to take a taxi or a Grabcar, but it does not give the full experience of traveling.

These are the tips that one should take note of if one really wants the full experience of traveling. It is always best to go to another country and blend in with the locals so that he or she cab truly understand what it is like in that country. With that said, always make some friends during travels as it will also help.




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