When you’re in an unfamiliar place, it would be wise to act similar to the way the locals act. Not only is it the polite thing to do, it also gives you a chance to really absorb their culture and be exposed to the hidden wonders of their milieu. So if you’re in a position to be traveling and exploring the world it’s important to venture off the beaten path and experience some of the more genuine features of a town or country that isn’t your homeland.

By following the locals and adopting their customs, you will experience things that very few other tourists get to experience and expand your cultural surroundings and go where only the locals go. Here are some of our pearls of wisdom for every traveler that wants the most unique travel experience

Save money on accommodation

Heading off the beaten track is a great way to save some of your holiday funds for more important things. Avoid the temptation to stay in the tourist spots including accommodation, lodges, and resorts and instead head to places that are quaint and local to get value for money and a more authentic experience. While the mainstream places might have all the bells and whistles you’re not really getting a genuine experience. Locals know the best places to stay and relax, so head off the main drag and look around for accommodation that will save you coin that you can spend on food and local cultural experiences.

Dine well as the locals eat

When you travel you can often see pockets of restaurants that are packed to the brim with locals and this is exactly where you should be heading quick smart. Find the restaurants and eating spots that serve local fare and avoid the restaurants that serve food you could be eating at home. Local restaurants are often much cheaper and the food is fresher – which means you’re less likely to get sick.

Have a chat with the locals

We can all be forgiven for staying in our comfort zone when we are on holidays and hanging out with our friends or family that we are traveling – yet the beauty of the local people is what can make a holiday or travel experience even sweeter. Forget museums and pricey walking tours. If you want to hear entertaining firsthand stories about the town or country you’re visiting for the price of a couple of beers, visit a neighborhood watering hole and ask the locals for some of their best stories. If you know the local lingo or the locals speak your language have a chat and ask them about where they live to get an insight into the true stories behind your holiday location.

Learn new things

TWhen vacationing, a lot of people tend to stick with their own kind and ignore the culture and customs of the very place they’re in. Immersing yourself in another culture is one of the most rewarding experiences you could ever have. If there is an opporunity to take part in a local cooking class or language lesson or you have a cultural tour or experience available, make sure you grab the opportunity with both hands and take it. By learning another culture, their way of life and the inner workings of their community, you can get a better understanding of the world and might even learn a thing or two if you’re lucky.