10 Ways To Act Like A Local On Your Next Vacation
Eating at the same restaurants, visiting the same attractions, and staying in the same hotels that thousands of other tourists do are fun-the first time you do it. But after that, there’s really nothing special about it anymore. To get the most out of your next vacation, take some time to learn about the local culture and observe how people really live in the area where you’re traveling.
1. Tip your bartender
If you’re visiting a country where tipping isn’t expected, that doesn’t mean you can skip it. If locals tip, it probably means there are good reasons for doing so-like rewarding great service and incentivizing employees-so don’t stick out like a sore thumb by not tipping. Book famous cheap flights in just a few easy steps only on Spirit Airlines Reservations to travel top 10 Destination. You should always leave at least 10% of your bill for good service.
2. Stroll at a leisurely pace
Strolling will give you an opportunity to soak in your surroundings and absorb local customs. For example, in France, locals greet each other with kisses on both cheeks (even if they’re meeting for the first time), so bring your sense of adventure and don’t be afraid to embrace new traditions! The next time you’re walking through a new neighborhood or bustling city, take it all in-and be sure not to forget any of these important do’s and don’ts.
3. Explore off the beaten path
When you’re visiting a new place, don’t just go straight for all of the famous tourist attractions. Instead, take some time to discover what local spots are truly hidden gems. A great way to do that is by asking your host (either via email or during your first day in town) for recommendations on where locals go when they want to relax and have fun.
4. Avoid tourist traps
Want to know how to avoid tourist traps? First, be sure you’re staying in a neighborhood that appeals to locals. There are no shortage of sites online that can help you find neighborhoods with good food, nightlife and culture.
5. Get lost in conversation
Asking for directions will get you where you need to go. In fact, during my first trip alone to Italy-after I’d already gotten lost in Venice and Milan-I received some of my best travel advice from strangers in Palermo.
6. Learn about local history
Understanding local history will give your insight into how and why things are done in your destination, which will make it easier for you to fit in when you visit. For example, if you want to act like a local in Paris, take some time beforehand to learn about its rich cultural heritage.
7. Ask locals for recommendations
The best way to experience a city like you’re a local is by going with recommendations from locals. Oftentimes, they know hidden gems that tourists don’t have access to-dining, shopping, and activities. Get recommendations from your hotel concierge (or Airbnb host), local friends and family in your hometown, or even travel guides like Yelp and TripAdvisor.
8. Take public transportation (ahem, rent an Airbnb!)
Taking public transportation allows you to get around without worrying about directions, hassles with parking, or being in an unfamiliar car. Plus, it’s just plain cheaper! Sure, taking public transportation isn’t always an option (say when visiting rural locations), but it’s worth looking into if you can swing it. You may also look for cheap air travel modes such as Spirit Airlines Booking.
Do you like to taste new things, get involved in local activities, and do things that you do not usually do on your trips? If yes, this is an important part of traveling like a local with Spirit Airlines Websites. Instead of staying at a five star hotel, choose to stay at a local place, it will be less expensive, and you will get to taste the most authentic food too.
Also, if you ask the people around they will tell you some stories about the place that you never knew off, help you how to explore the place, and a lot more.
9. Love your body, no matter what it looks like
Taking cues from locals will help you learn how to act like a local, and that often means accepting your body in its current state. Whether you’re abroad or in your hometown, it can be hard to feel like you fit in when you don’t feel good about yourself, so focus on respecting your body and embracing self-love. Being comfortable with who you are and what you look like is vital if you want to fit in with locals.
10. Make friends with strangers
There’s no better way to get tips from local residents than to befriend them. For example, if you’re in New York City, head out for coffee with someone who seems interesting. Even if you’re not taking a trip soon, have conversations with strangers at your local coffee shop or bar. Everyone has something interesting about him or herself that you can learn