Immersion travel is becoming a thing. This general idea of skipping the main attractions and landmarks in favor of seeing your destination through the eyes of a local.
If you're feeling up for it, try one of the tips below the next time you visit a new place.
- Write in a travel journal each day. Consider it a future gift to yourself. You will never tire at looking back at this time in your life and travel provides an opportunity for deep introspection.
- Practice the language. Start with the basics--hello, goodbye, please, thank you. There are loads of travel apps now that can also help you on-the-go with your language skills.
- Leave the maps behind for the afternoon and wander aimlessly. See where you end up.
- Find a local park--pick up a sandwich from a local shop and bring a book. Sit back and relax. Sometimes when we travel, we take for granted these little acts that can instantly ground us to a place.
- Get a recommendation from a local--the next time you're at a restaurant or shopping in a store, ask the waiter or cashier for a recommendation. Or, if you're feeling confident, stop someone on the street!
