There’s something magical about ditching the crowds and finding those hidden gems that don’t show up on your average travel itinerary. Over the years, I’ve developed a few tried-and-true habits that help me veer away from tourist traps and dive deeper into the soul of a place. Here’s how I make it happen.
1. Talk to Locals—Like, Really Talk
It sounds obvious, but genuinely connecting with locals can open up a world of lesser-known experiences. I always ask taxi drivers, baristas, or even market vendors where they like to eat, relax, or hang out. You’d be surprised how often this leads to discovering quiet beaches, family-run eateries, or little festivals happening just around the corner.
Tip: Don’t be shy. Learn a few basic phrases in the local language—it goes a long way in breaking the ice.
2. Ditch the Guidebook and Follow Your Feet
One of my favorite ways to get lost (in the best way) is to just pick a neighborhood and start wandering. No agenda, no expectations. Some of my most memorable finds—like a rooftop art gallery in Oaxaca or a hidden waterfall in Bali—came from spontaneous detours.
Pro move: Take public transportation to a random stop, get off, and explore. You’ll see the city through a totally different lens.
3. Book Local Stays Over Big Hotels
Choosing a homestay, B&B, or even a local Airbnb instead of a chain hotel often puts you right in the heart of a real neighborhood. Your hosts are usually a goldmine of off-the-radar recommendations and local insights you’d never find online.
Bonus: You’ll likely spend less and get a more immersive experience.
4. Time Your Travels Smartly
Want to avoid the crowds? Travel during the shoulder seasons. Think late spring or early autumn. Not only will you get better deals, but the locals are usually more relaxed and welcoming, and the landscapes are just as beautiful—if not more.
5. Find Events and Experiences on Local Apps or Facebook Groups
Skip the TripAdvisor top 10 list. Instead, dig into local Facebook groups or use apps like Meetup, Couchsurfing Events, or even Reddit forums specific to the city or region. You’ll find everything from underground music nights to hiking groups or food tours run by passionate locals.
6. Eat Where the Menu Isn’t in English
A good rule of thumb I live by: if the menu has zero English and the place is full of locals, you’ve struck gold. Don’t worry about not knowing exactly what you’re ordering—that’s part of the adventure. Nine times out of ten, it’ll be delicious.
7. Be Curious, Flexible, and Open-Minded
This might be the most important one. The best off-the-beaten-track experiences usually come when you’re willing to say “yes” to the unexpected. An invite to a wedding, a local cooking class, or a last-minute road trip with new friends—all these come from being open to the unplanned.
Getting off the beaten track isn’t about checking boxes—it’s about feeling connected to the people, the culture, and the rhythm of a place. Whether it’s wandering without a map or sitting down for a meal with strangers, these moments make travel unforgettable.
So the next time you hit the road, go ahead—get a little lost.