Every week, Explorations will offer all you inveterate travelers a travel tip from one of our expert Program Consultants.
This week’s travel tip is from our Client Services Manager, Sarah Vessenes, and it’s a good one for the extroverted traveler…
When I travel, I like to go for the authentic experience–to move beyond being a tourist. I like to eat, shop, and live the rhythms of the city, country or region I’m visiting.
And here’s the best way to get to this authentic experience: Don’t be shy! As a naturally outgoing person, this comes naturally to me, but for those who are not as garrulous–trust me, it’s worth it.
Get to know the people who know your location like the backs of their hands. Some of my best travel advice has come from the mouths of taxi drivers, bartenders and waitstaff.
At a restaurant in Holland, my friend who I was traveling with and myself made such good friends with our waiter that he ended up offering to show us a place only locals would know the next day. He and his friends took us to see amazing views of the North Sea, miles of tulip fields, and to have dinner at the family home!
Remember, most locals want to make international connections as much as you want to learn about their native lands, so again I say “Don’t be shy!” Get to know your travel destination the best way possible–from someone who lives every day.