While organized tours and resort vacations have their place in our vacation book, getting into the heart of a new location is one of the most exciting parts of traveling. But if you don’t know anyone in a foreign place, how do you do it? We’ve rounded up a few of our favorite ways to live like a local no matter how long you’re visiting.
Rent an apartment
Instead of staying in an expensive hotel in a touristy location, try renting an apartment in an up-and-coming neighborhood to get a more local feel. From taking a morning stroll for coffee to checking out area shopping and restaurant options, you’ll get a day-to-day feel for the location that’s tough to recreate at a hotel.
Eat With
No need to make reservations for the hottest new restaurant when you can eat with new friends instead. EatWith connects food lovers with hosts, people in a particular area who enjoy cooking and welcoming travelers and locals alike into their homes for a home-cooked meal. Explore more than 150 cities with each host sharing their own specialty.
Alternative Tours
Skip the big city tour bus and try a hyper-local version. Sites like Vayable, and WithLocals let you find tours led by locals and search by experiences. From biking tours to club night excursions, you’ll come away with a unique look into your adopted home. Withlocals tours are private and each activity is 100 percent customizable.
Couchsurfing
The website, known for matching local hosts with travelers seeking accommodation, is also a convenient way to connect and hang out with someone. You can search for a host willing to grab a coffee or join in on events happening in the Couchsurfing community no matter where you’re sleeping at night.
Read This Next
Eat Like a Local
Food & Drink
Oct 2, 2014#TrazeeTravel
Insta FeedDining/Entertainment
Feb 17, 2025COMO Shambhala Debuts Two Cleanse Menus
Two new four-day, three-night cleanse menus recently debuted at COMO Shambhala Estate in Bali. The offering, crafted by the COMO Shambhala Kitchen, are also on offer at COMO Shambhala Metropolitan Singapore.
Sponsored Content
Madrid: The Charm of an Authentic City
They say Madrid is in vogue for many reasons: its lifestyle, its heritage, its cuisine and all of its new attractions. And it’s true, because Madrid is on the radar of travelers looking for a cutting-edge destination that still holds onto its essence. Join us as we explore its charms.
Trends / Health & Wellness
Feb 17, 2025Vakkaru Maldives Takes A Holistic Approach to Modern Wellbeing with 3 Experiences
Vakkaru Maldives strives to redefine luxury wellness by offering guests a relaxing retreat where up-to-date trends in holistic health are curated into one-of-a-kind experiences. The resort added several key wellness themes to its offerings to help meet the needs of modern visitors.
Uncategorized
Feb 14, 2025Stay at These Brand-New Oberoi Properties
Be the first of your traveling friends to visit these brand-new Oberoi Hotels & Resorts properties. The luxury brand opens three resorts this year, starting with The Oberoi Vindhyavilas Wildlife Resort this month.
Sponsored Content
Unveiling Europe’s Treasures with AmaWaterways River Cruises
Embark on an unforgettable adventure with AmaWaterways, recognized as Best River Cruise Line by Cruise Critic. What sets AmaWaterways apart is its commitment to offering you the luxury of more. With up to eight daily included excursion options, you have the freedom to tailor your journey to your interests. Whether you're a history buff, a culinary enthusiast or an architecture aficionado, there's something for everyone on the meticulously crafted itineraries. You will also be treated to a range of exquisitely prepared meals in the Main Restaurant and The Chef’s Table specialty restaurant, unlimited wine and beer during lunch and dinner, an array of complimentary host-led fitness classes, and so much more.
Destinations
Feb 14, 2025Top Cities for Digital Nomads in 2025
With remote work becoming more popular, the digital nomad lifestyle is more attainable and attractive to millennials and gen-Zers alike. This cultural movement blends career ambitions with a passion for exploration and travel. Toward the end of 2024, Google searches for “digital nomad” increased by 53 percent. From café hopping in Prague to work spaces in Chiang Mai, this lifestyle offers travel enthusiasts an opportunity to combine professional growth with memorable experiences.
ShareThis