18 Very Important Things to Know If You Want to Be Known as a Real Traveler

A lot of people love to travel. Sometimes, the mere mention of going on a vacation tends to get them excited. The truth of the matter is, being an experienced traveler isn’t in the number of countries you’ve visited. There’s actually a big difference between a tourist who just loves to go on vacations in new countries from a traveler who takes time to explore the place, taking in the culture and getting to know its people.

To be a true traveler, consider these 18 pieces of significant advice to guide you during your trips. Level up from being a tourist to a traveler.

1. Note that the new place you’re visiting happens to be someone else’s home.

When traveling with a child, tell him about the culture of the place. Show him around and feed him with wonderful stories of how the place came to be and its people. This is how you learn to appreciate other people.

2. Research on the place you are visiting beforehand.

It wouldn’t hurt to learn at least the basics. What the local like, best places to go to, local culture. It would definitely help you when you start going around the city.

3. Respect the culture.

Everything in this world is unique and diverse. When you always keep this in mind when you travel to another country, appreciating it will be much easier.

4. Ask for permission before taking photos of people.

It’s just but the polite thing to do and in part of respecting the culture of others. There are some places where taking a photo of someone means losing a part of their soul. So don’t take offense when they refuse to be photographed.

5. Learn a few phrases.

It would definitely help getting around the city way much easier than usual.

6. Meet new people.

To be a true traveler means making new friends when in a new environment. It’s one of the many important take-aways of any travel.

7. Purchase local pieces of art.

Ask your tourist guide to take you where the local arts and crafts are available so you can buy something that speaks of the culture of the country.

8. Consider booking or staying with a host family.

Traveling is way different when you stay with a host family. You get to learn about the culture and traditions firsthand. Plus, you also get to eat homemade food, too.

9. Eat local food.

Get out of your comfort zone and find out what the country tastes like. Scope around, ask the people what their local dishes are and give it a try. What’s the point of going to another country if you’re just eating at a McDonalds?

10. Go slow.

Stop and smell the flowers. Don’t go through the whole trip to The Louvre in just 10 minutes. Take time and take it slow.

11. Be spontaneous.

Sure you have a schedule to follow, but try to veer away from it from time to time and see how it will make your adventure a whole lot more fulfilling.

12. Get lost.

You’ll surely find yourself in an unknown place. Take this time to explore and discover new things.

13. Travel alone.

When you’re alone, you get to choose the destinations without having to take a big group into consideration. You also get to set your own time, appreciate the culture even more, and you won’t feel obligated to anyone.

14. Choose the lesser popular attractions.

Why? Because you need to discover something new at least once in a while.

15. The best things in life are free.

Your emotions from the experiences, the beautiful sunset or sunrise, the cool dip in the ocean. These are some of the things that you wouldn’t trade for anything else.

16. Use public transport.

Taking public transport is not only cheaper, it’s also a good way to learn more about the different destinations and the culture.

17. Your destination may be different in reality.

Rule of thumb is to never expect. What you dream of may not actually be the same in real life. Try considering other options or be ready to share your dreams with others.

18. Travel more.

18. Travel more.

Unravel new adventures. Don’t be afraid to discover the world.