There is nothing like the excitement that comes with traveling to a new place. It’s incredible how everything, from the landscape and architecture to the food, drinks, and people’s behavior, changes from one border to the other. When we go somewhere new, we all normally want to do everything there is to do, especially since there is no guarantee that we will be returning there again someday. However, it’s almost impossible to get the full experience if we are only going there for a small visit. Fortunately, there are ways in which you can make the best out of your trip. If you are feeling adventurous, make sure to check out our article for some ideas for your next trip.
Ditch the Itinerary- and the Map
Preparing an itinerary before you travel is usually a great idea. It helps you ensure that you don’t miss out on the must-see sights, as well as the city’s hotspots. While you shouldn’t ditch the itinerary for the entire trip, make it a point to explore the city, no strings attached, for at least one day. Consider leaving your map behind too, while you’re at it. Exploring the city on your own will allow you to gather an authentic feel and experience of the area. You may even discover the city’s hidden gems and get to interact with the people; this will help you gain more insight into the culture. Before you set out on your mini-adventure, make sure to ask the locals or any guides if there are some areas in the city that you should steer clear of. Consider asking them for some tips that you should keep in mind throughout your excursion. As long as you have access to mobile internet, Uber, or Lyft, and can pinpoint your hotel’s location on the Google Maps application, then you are good to go. You can exchange numbers with your tour guides if you have any. If you will separate from your friends, you can also share your live location with them for extra safety.
Say Yes
If you are seeking an adventure like no other, always say yes; take up everyone on their offers. Are your friends going skydiving or bungee jumping? You should go for it too. Is a local tour guide offering you a full hot air balloon experience and a camel ride around the desert? Go along with them (though, make sure that it’s not a scam, of course). Do everything that you normally wouldn’t do. Never skip out on the things that you don’t have access to at home.
Sleep Last and Wake Up First
Nothing is as magical as going to bed last and being the first awake in a new city. You get to watch everyone go to sleep and wake up in the morning. If you are in a more natural setting, you will get to hear the birds and the other sounds of nature more clearly. Camping there would also be a great idea; adventurers who work with Kempoo.com suggest that you research the best camping spots beforehand. If you are on a trip in a bustling city, watching the city go to sleep will also allow you to get the chance to admire the city with no traffic or noise. You can find an elevated area, such as a hilltop or even your hotel’s rooftop, to watch the sunrise from. If the city is safe, you can walk around and experience it from the streets.
Indulge in Street Food
Even though you may not consider this as an adventure, many people are very picky when it comes to the food that they eat. You should not skip out on trying the city’s street food if you want to create memories that will last a lifetime. If you stick to fancy restaurants or fast-food chains the entire trip, you will never get the full disclosure. Food is considered a means of cultural identity expression. If you think about it, anyone who travels far from home for too long indulges in their cultural cuisine so that they can feel closer to their city. Traditional and local cuisine can give you a taste of the country’s lifestyle, values, culture, history, and beliefs. Roam around, stop by shops, booths, or even carts to treat your taste buds to a snack or meal. Talk to the people, the owners, and eat with them. Inquire about the unique ingredients; they will appreciate your intrigue and interest.
Besides coming up with a detailed plan that allows you to marvel at the city’s most popular sights, going off the beaten track will help you make memories that will last a lifetime. Try to explore the area by yourself and get in touch with the people. Do the unexpected and savor every moment; you have the power to create an unforgettable trip.