Some travel to put a check in a little box, but many are in it for the immersion experience that can only be gained outside of your own element. Sampling the local cuisine is a good start and a neighborhood hangout is an invaluable resource for living like a local — at least for a few days.
Read up on the area
Chances are you chose your destination because something about it interested you. Before your trip, brush up on local customs and handmade talents. What are they known for? You can also look up local fair trade organizations that make sure items are made by real natives or artisans.
Explore the neighborhood
Get your bearings. One can pretty quickly tell which blocks or streets are directed at tourists who want a cheap shirt and a postcard. Look for more subtle displays and signs. You want to find places that you would shop if you lived there everyday. Be safe but venture a bit out of the main tourist zones.
Find a local pub or restaurant
Sit down with a local glass of beer or wine and strike up a friendly conversation with the server or bartender. Explain that you are here to get some local flavor and are interested in the real history. Most will be pleased that you are making an effort to avoid the obvious shopping.
As a quick example, while honeymooning in Edinburgh, we wanted to take a tour of the old city underground. There were at least a dozen tours that claimed to be the best, but living in a tourist town made us wary of slick brochures and costumed guides. We explained our situation to the friendly pub owner and said we wanted the least “cheesy” tour there was. With a knowing smile he directed us to one company. He was proud of his city and was pleased that we wanted a real experience.
Read This Next
#TrazeeTravel
Insta FeedHotel
Oct 26, 2026Four Seasons Hotel Boston Introduces City Suites Collection
Four Seasons Hotel Boston recently unveiled its City Suites Collection, 11 newly designed suites to meet the rising demand for apartment-style luxury accommodations for long-term stays, available with monthly rates.
Sponsored Content
TAP Air Portugal: A Milestone Year
From small airline to global success, TAP Air Portugal turns 80 and better than ever.
Destinations / Europe
Oct 26, 20262 Resorts in Portugal Sure to Make Your Winter Trip Exceptional
While Portugal has been a popular summer destination for travelers over the last couple of years, the destination really shines during the off-season. With mild winter temperatures, smaller crowds, budget-friendly flight options and exciting winter offerings, the cooler months are a magical time to explore Portugal’s Lisbon and Comporta. And these destinations truly shine when you pair the trip with a great resort.
Caribbean
Oct 26, 2026Ocean Allure Eden Bay Comes to Jamaica
Ocean Signature Resorts brings its luxury, all-inclusive, adults-only brand — Ocean Allure — to Jamaica by transforming Ocean Eden Bay into the new Ocean Allure Eden Bay, opening next month. Ocean Signature Resorts introduced the Ocean Allure concept in December 2025, with the opening of Ocean Allure Costa Mujeres in Mexico.
Sponsored Content
The Province That Surrounds Seoul — And Outshines It
Skip the Seoul Crowds. The Real Korea is in Gyeonggi.
Latin America
Oct 23, 2026The Belize Collection Announces Expansion of The Banks Resort
The Belize Collection’s astounding success of its inaugural phase of the new The Banks Resort continues with the grand unveiling of the resort’s second expansion this December. The second phase preserves the property's intimate character while providing more ways for travelers to experience its jungle settings.
ShareThis