Tips to Really Get Off the Beaten Path

Getting ¨off the beaten path¨ is the goal of most modern travelers as the overcrowded tourist attractions have become a major turn-off and travelers seek more original experiences. But what does it really mean to seek out experiences and places out of the norm, and how does a traveler really get to those places of authenticity?

Rent a car or motorbike. The beaten paths of highly visited destinations are typically accessed by public transportation. Rent your own means of transportation to explore what you want at your own pace. When you are at the steering wheel, it´s easier to veer off the road and explore a hidden path to anywhere.

Mingle with the locals. This does not mean chatting up the bartender at a bar near your hotel or beside the city´s biggest attraction. Conversing with the locals takes some effort and maybe a bit of travel outside the city or large town. Language barriers aside, ask the locals about their lives and you may get insight into the history of the area including other spots to visit and explore.

Slow down. Bucket-list travelers have mastered the ability to squeeze in as much as possible within a short period of time, checking off their lists as they go. By slowing down and not rushing through all the sites, you give yourself time to really wander and venture into areas of the city you may not have been able to see if you had stuck to a strict itinerary.