Five Easy Ways to Find Where the Locals Go
What’s your travel style? Are you a tried and true “hit all of the tourist highlights” traveler, or do you like to get off the beaten path? Personally, I like to mix it up a bit. Though I try to visit during times when crowds aren’t as large, some tourist sites are totally worth the visit in my opinion! For example - every time I'm in Florence I make a point to see Michelangelo's David, because he's just that magical! (Tip: it’s also the one art piece in Florence I think EVERYONE should see, whether you’re an art lover or not)!
But generally speaking, I'm more interested in the people, traditions, music, food and art that give a place its history and character, away from the more famous sites. For me, that's the life and heart of a place and where authenticity happens. It’s the sweet spot where - for me - travel gets REALLY exciting!
If you're like me and really love to seek out more authentic experiences while traveling, below are a few quick tips on how to find out where the locals go.
Pick up the local English language newspaper
Just about every major city in the world has a local English language newspaper or free magazine. Bookstores and entrances to coffee shops are good places to pick these up. Take a look at the event listings to find out about various locals events. How about a poetry reading in Paris? Or a cooking class in Hong Kong? English language papers are great for things like this because, though they cater to the ex-pat community, they tend to focus on local events rather than well-beaten tourist sites.
Ask your bartender/waiter/taxi driver/tour guide, etc.
This is my favorite way of discovering new places. Who better to ask about great places to spend time than locals? Instead of saying “What’s a good place to…” shift the question a bit and ask them where THEIR favorite place to go is. You’re more likely to get answers that focus on a local, authentic experience, rather than get advice on where tourists tend to spend time.
Book a meal at a local’s home
There are several websites that offer this service, so take a look around and see what experiences seem most interesting to you. Not only does eating in a local’s home offer a unique experience, it also allows you to ask them for some hidden gems in their city that you can add to your itinerary.
For a few years I was part of something called Mealsharing here in Chicago. Locals would post a meal that they were hosting in their home, and anyone who was a part of the community could sign up to join the meal. Attendees would pay a small fee (usually in the range of $12-$20) to cover the cost of the meal, and everyone in the community was vetted through a rating and comment system to make it safe. My years doing Mealsharing have led to some incredible friendships that I maintain to this day!
Take public transportation to a lesser known part of the city
If you’re in a larger city, you can often take a bus or commuter train to the outskirts and find local places to wander. Just make sure you’re going to a safe part of the city. You can ask your hotel’s front desk staff for suggestions.
AirBnb
If you’re using something like AirBnb or VRBO to rent a property for your trip, before you arrive at your destination, ask your host to recommend some places that might be off the beaten path for the average tourist.
And those are a few ways to find more authentic, local experiences. I hope this helps you explore a little more, and find those gems that are unique to wherever you are in the world!
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hi there, I’m angi the founder of roam & gather. My mission is to curate joy-centered, small group journeys that are relaxed, intimate, and rooted in culture, community and slowness.
Roam & Gather is a small travel company offering soul-nourishing, curated travel experiences that help connect people with global communities, like-minded travelers and themselves.
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