Tourist Traps

Watch out.Summer is here already !

By menier111

Published 9 years ago

Watch out.Summer is here already !

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Giving back and getting involved in community projects is a great way to leave tourists far behind. Find a local non-profit that could use time or dollars

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Have coffee. Decaf works too. Sit in a cafe where the neighborhood folks go with the morning paper. Even if you don't speak their language, you'll be surprised just how much they will help you
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Walk lots, especially away from the major tourist sites. In bigger cities, buy a day bus pass and just head off in random directions, hopping on and off at will

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Get recommendations from doormen and taxi drivers. They will recommend something homogenized at first, but keep pressing for somewhere they or only locals hang out.
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Find a mode of travel that forces you to slow down and see more of what you are passing through—biking, hiking, riding horses, etc.
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ee if there are "meet up" groups in the area that cover topics of interest to you. Take a language class, even if for only a week

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Approach the concierge of an upscale hotel at your destination and ask, "Where would you go for X (a great anniversary dinner, to experience the real local culture, etc.
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Two unfortunate words: Strip malls. These places aren't built with tourists in mind.
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Leave the map at the hotel! There is nothing better than being completely lost in a new city. I find it's the only way to really discover the true life of a place--the people, smells, and flavors.