What To Do If You’re Lost in a Foreign City

While walking around a city enjoying the sights or on the search for the next one, and you suddenly find yourself in an uncomfortable place, don’t panic. It happens to everyone, especially if you’re young and excited and in a foreign place. Here are some tips learned from experience to keep with you if you find yourself lost without a smartphone or knowledgeable friend to get you out of a rut.

Don’t get on public transportation

You’ll want to take things slow and assess your surroundings. If you’re in a foreign city for the first time, there’s a good chance you won’t know the public transit very well, and you don’t want to make the mistake of getting off at the “right” stop and becoming even more lost.

Stay on the main streets

If you accidentally wandered into a part of town that gives you a bad feeling, stay with the flow of the public. Don’t respond to anyone who speaks to you, for whatever reason, and instead find a store or street vendor to talk to who can point you in the right direction.

Retrace your steps

Chances are you came from a main hub or big attraction of the city, and can reassess your surroundings there. Try to go back the way you came, but only if you’re sure you’re heading in the right direction and spotting familiar landmarks.