There’s a big difference between visiting a place and actually experiencing it. You can hit all the “Top 10 Must-Sees” and still leave feeling like you missed the real heart of the place. If your goal is to soak up the actual vibe of a destination and not just snap the same photos as every other tourist, you’ve gotta travel like a local.
I’ve picked up a few tips over the years (and maybe made a few cringey tourist mistakes in the process), so here’s how you can dive deeper, connect with the culture, and not scream “I’m not from here!!” at every turn.
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1. Skip the Big Chains—Eat Where the Locals Eat
You know that super cute café you saw all over TikTok? Yeah… the one with the aesthetic latte and $18 avocado toast? That’s probably not where locals are spending their mornings.
One of the best ways to experience the soul of a place is through food. Ask people who live there where they eat. Check out food stalls, family-owned spots, and street carts. Before I went solo to Colombia I joined a travel group on Facebook and asked the locals what I should eat. They suggested to ask for “El plato del día” (The plate of the day). I did this many places I went, most places didn’t even speak English so I have no idea what I was eating but thoroughly enjoyed every single dish!
Bonus tip: Join a local cooking class (I book mine through Viator. You’ll learn how to make real dishes and probably end up making friends, too.
2. Learn a Few Words of the Language
You don’t need to be fluent. Honestly, just a few key phrases like “hello,” “thank you,” and “how much?” go a long way. Locals appreciate when you try, even if your accent is tragic (mine usually is). It shows respect and usually leads to more open and authentic conversations.
Apps like Duolingo are fun for brushing up beforehand, but don’t stress too hard. Even asking someone how to say something is a great convo starter.
Now when worse comes to worse I use Google Translate . I like how they have a feature for text or speech, very convenient!
3. Use Public Transportation (and Get a Little Lost)
It’s so easy to default to Ubers or taxis, but using public transportation is a great way to see how people actually get around. You’ll notice neighborhoods that aren’t in the guidebooks, hear the local music playing on the bus, and maybe even stumble upon an awesome market or park you wouldn’t have found otherwise.
One of my favorite “travel like a local” moments happened when I took a solo trip to this tiny town in Colombia called Retiro, about an hour from Medellín. Someone in a Colombia travel Facebook group had recommended it, and thank god they did because it ended up being one of the most peaceful, charming places I’ve ever been.
I booked a bus ticket through RedBus, but of course—I missed it (or maybe couldn’t find it?). Total chaos. I ended up at the ticket counter trying to explain where I needed to go, and no one spoke English. I was nervous, definitely sweating, but also kind of thrilled to be thrown into real life like that. Eventually, this sweet woman behind the counter understood what I needed and literally pointed me in the right direction.
I finally got on the bus (the only tourist in sight), and again—zero English. I was paranoid I’d miss my stop or fall asleep, so I used Google Translate to ask the bus attendant to let me know when we got to Retiro. And wow—worth every second of the confusion. As soon as I stepped off the bus, I saw two women literally riding horses through the street.
The town was stunning: super calm, colorful, and full of charm. I grabbed coffee at a little local café, bought a bag of beans from a shop down the road, had lunch, sat by a waterfall in front of the prettiest church, and just wandered around soaking it all in. Zero itinerary, just vibes.
"Le montanere El Retiro" coffee shop - Retiro, Colombia - 3/2024
If you’re nervous, apps like Citymapper or Rome2Rio make navigating easy. And if you do get lost? Even better. Some of my most unexpected travel gems came from hopping on the wrong train.
4. Ditch the Itinerary (At Least for a Day)
Look, I’m all for having a plan—especially if you’ve booked things like museum tickets or day trips. But leave room for wandering.
Give yourself at least one day where you wake up and just… see where the day takes you. Maybe you follow the smell of fresh bread into a side street bakery, or a stranger invites you to a local festival. These moments don’t happen when you’re rushing from one “must-see” to the next.
5. Shop Like a Local (Not at Souvenir Stands)
If it says “I ❤️ [Insert City],” it’s not the move.
Instead, check out local markets, craft fairs, or artist studios. Buy handmade jewelry, ceramics, vintage clothes, or spices you can actually use at home. Not only are you supporting small businesses, but you’re also getting something with a real story behind it.
Pro tip: If you’re traveling to a place known for textiles or craftsmanship, look up local co-ops or collectives beforehand. You’ll usually find better quality and more ethical sourcing.
6. Stay in Local Neighborhoods (Not Tourist Traps)
Instead of staying right next to the big tourist landmarks, try a residential neighborhood. You’ll get a more authentic feel, quieter mornings, and probably better coffee.
I did stay in the El Pablado area in Medellin which is arguably rather touristy but I stayed at the cutest small boutique hotel with a chill rooftop lounge and amazing views. The staff and customer service were 10/10!
I usually search on Expedia for boutique hotels, guesthouses, & hostels in local areas. And if you’re into meeting locals, try Workaway, Couchsurfing, or even a homestay experience.
7. Say Yes to Local Experiences
One of the best ways to travel like a local is to do what locals do. Check out local event calendars, see what festivals or art shows are happening, and say yes to things you wouldn’t normally do.
Traditional dance class? Sure. Sunday soccer game at the park? Why not. Random community theater play in a language you don’t understand? Honestly, go!
I wanted to go to a soccer game soo bad when I was in Colombia but it just didn’t end up happening. Next time!
It’s these random yeses that make a trip unforgettable.
8. Be Curious, Not Judgmental
This one’s simple, but important. The goal isn’t to compare everything to what you’re used to—it’s to experience something new. Eat the unfamiliar food. Listen to the stories. Ask questions. Soak it up.
You’re not there to fix or critique—you’re there to learn and experience.
Final Thoughts: Be a Traveler, Not a Tourist
Look, it’s fine to be excited about famous landmarks or to take that iconic photo. I still do! But the magic of travel lives in the in-between moments—the conversations, the street corners, the things you didn’t plan for.
So next time you pack your bags, just remember: real connection > perfect itinerary. Always.
And hey, if you have any of your own “travel like a local” tips, drop them in the comments—I’m always looking to level up my adventures.
Want more travel hacks, guides, and inspo? Stick around—Majjas Travel Diary is where I spill all the travel tea ✈️🌍
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