Travelling is definitely one of the most amazing ways to broaden your horizons when it comes to acknowledge different cultures and ways of living.

When you travel abroad, specially if you travel to a different continent, you are exposed to new things. It teach you new perspectives, puts you in contact with a reality different from the one you come from.

One way to make your travels more unique and memorable is to absorb the local culture of each destination, rather than simply observing it. By seeking out local people, places and activities, you’ll learn more about a place and find it more interesting than you ever thought possible.

Here are some ways to explore that can help you experience and immerse yourself in the local culture:

1. Try the local cuisine

Trying on different food expands not only your cultural knowledge but also your taste palette. Being familiar with strange and exotic food gives you a window into the lives of the locals. This also teaches you to appreciate different ways that food is cooked in different locations.

2. Book a tour with a local guide

When arranging a trip with the help of a local, sightseeing becomes a more flexible and impromptu experience, as opposed to formal guided excursions or pre-packaged itineraries. There’s no better way to feel the heartbeat of a city than discovering it with a knowledgeable local.

3. Walk or take public transports – and do not be afraid to get lost

4. Venture behind the city/ main attractions

Tourist attractions are great, but you can learn even more about a local culture by finding the places that are special to the locals and unknown by the tourists. Ask locals for ideas of cool places to go. When you venture away from tourist hotspots, you could discover architecture and hidden beauties that reveals so much more about the country you’re visiting.

5. Visit local markets

When you can opt to avoid touristy areas and try walking around local markets which are great places to experience local and historical costumes.

6. Stay in local accommodation instead of hotel chains

One of the best ways to gain a genuine insight into your destination is to opt for a homestay. Offering something a night in a hotel can never provide, they give you a real experience of local life, connect you with like-minded people and can provide a vital source of revenue in struggling economies.

7. Learn the Language

Learning a whole new language is difficult, but to pick up a few words and phrases is easy enough. Simple pleasantries like “hello”, “how are you”, “please”, “thank you” and “goodbye” will go a long way in establish relationships with the locals.

Keep an Open Mind!

Not everything is going to be how you expected it to be, or even less so, how it is back home. That’s kind of the point of going new places. Immerse yourself in the culture and just embrace it!

Travelling is a great way to expand your horizons and renew your perspective about the world. But, while it can be fun to explore the region and drop by every scenic spot, this is not the only way to make your trip memorable. By trying out new activities and seeking connections with natives, you’ll be able to elevate your travel experience, making it more special.