Ailie Macquarie
You booked the ticket. You packed the bag. You’re ready to explore.
But if your vibe screams “tourist” from a mile away, oversized camera, confused face, blocking the sidewalk, you might be missing out on the real experience.
Here’s how to blend in, show respect, and travel like a local… without becoming that traveler. 👀
1. 🗣️ Learn At Least These 5 Phrases
You don’t need to be fluent. But knowing “hello,” “please,” “thank you,” “sorry,” and “do you speak English?” in the local language goes a long way.
Bonus tip: locals love when you try, even if you mess up. Confidence > perfection.
2. 🧭 Walk Like You Know Where You’re Going (Even If You Don’t)
Tourist energy = stopping in the middle of the sidewalk with a confused spin.
Local energy = stepping to the side, checking your phone, and walking with purpose.
🕶 Pro move: Save maps offline and pin key places before you go wandering.
3. 🍞 Eat Where Grandma Would Eat
Skip the spots with 40 English flags on the menu and pictures of food that looks like plastic.
Instead, look for:
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Handwritten chalkboards
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Lineups of locals
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Places where nobody is on their phone
💡 Tip: Search “[local dish] near me” on Google Maps and filter by reviews in the native language.
4. 🚇 Master the Public Transit System
Want to see the city like a local? Get on a bus. Or a train. Or a tuk-tuk.
It’s cheaper, greener, and way more fun than calling an Uber every 5 minutes.
Don’t be afraid to ask for help — but try first. Locals appreciate the effort.
5. 🤫 Keep It Down (You’re Not at Coachella)
In many countries, people speak more quietly in public. If your voice carries like a shouty podcast, tone it down.
Respect the local vibe. Be the main character, not the loudspeaker.
6. 👗 Dress Like You Read the Room
You don’t need to cosplay a local, but do observe what people wear — especially in religious or traditional areas.
Avoid these red flags:
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Huge logos
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Offensive T-shirts
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Walking shirtless just because it’s hot 🙃
7. 💵 Tip How They Tip
Every country is different. In Japan, tipping is considered rude. In the U.S., it’s expected. In Italy, service is often included.
📲 Quick fix: Google “[Country] tipping guide” before your first meal.
8. 📸 Take Photos, Not Over People’s Heads
Yes, the moment is beautiful. But if you’re holding up a phone in someone’s face, it’s not cool.
Ask before photographing people. Don’t block the flow. And maybe — just maybe — put the phone away for one sunset.
9. 🤝 Say Hello. Just… Say Hello.
Whether it’s a nod to the barista or a “good morning” on the trail, acknowledging people matters. It’s a small act of connection that goes a long way.
In some cultures, ignoring people is seen as rude. A smile is universal.
10. 🧠 Be Curious, Not Judgy
“This is weird” → ❌
“This is different from what I’m used to” → ✅
Approach everything — food, customs, schedules — with curiosity and humility. That’s the magic of travel.
✈️ TL;DR: Don’t Just Visit, Participate
Locals don’t want you to pretend you live there. They just want you to care.
Be kind. Stay curious. Respect the space. And in return? You get a deeper, more authentic travel experience.
