Everybody knows the disappointment that comes with planning a trip to some off the beaten path destination with the anticipation of diving into local culture and avoiding other tourists, only to find that the place you’re visiting is swarming with people just like you. This is the natural side effect of relying on internet reviews to plan the perfect trip. You know that everyone else can see those things too, right?
Of course, it’s fine to be touristy every once in a while, but it feels so much more adventurous to do something that makes you feel like you’re discovering hidden secrets. One of the best ways to do that is to get rid of your GPS and just wander around. Make sure you have decent maps of course, but getting a little lost in a new city often lets you see a side of it that tourists never experience. Also, talk to strangers and get their advice on things to do. Instead of using Yelp, just ask a random passerby on the street what the best places to eat are in the area you’re exploring.
Most of all, be open to the serendipitous experiences that happen to you when you relinquish control over your vacation. Not everything that happens when you leave things up to chance will necessarily be fun, but remember that things that make you feel uncomfortable at first can often end up being the most rewarding travel experiences.
Read the full article here: How to get Lost on Purpose
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