How to Live Like a Local on Vacation
July 26, 2022
There are some epic tourist attractions in the US that can’t be missed if you’re nearby but experiencing a destination like a local broadens your adventures beyond the tourist attractions. Create a travel itinerary that combines the top attractions with time to explore freely, immersed in authentic travel experiences that build a deeper connection to the destination, the culture, and the lifestyle of the locals.
Every vacation destination and culture is unique – earning the respect of a local community requires you do your research on local cultural traditions, dress codes, tipping etiquette, and the language basics if you’re traveling to a foreign country. Search beyond the top attractions for unique tours, activities and festivals to absorb the culture and experience your chosen destination as the locals do.
Xplorie partners with locally-owned and operated rental managers and activity providers to offer guests an unforgettable and authentic vacation experience, and lifelong memories. Stay in a participating Xplorie property and get the most out of your vacation with free admissions to the most popular tourist attractions and complimentary activities, tours, and experiences with local tour guides to enjoy your destination and vacation to the max!
Walk or Bike the Streets
Some of the best local discoveries are made getting lost exploring the side streets of lesser known neighborhoods. Ditch the tourist trail and explore your destination on foot or two wheels if the destination is bike-friendly. Many of our complimentary Xplorie activity programs include walking tours, bike tours, and bike rentals geared for the whole family.
Wake up early to connect to the locals lifestyle, you’ll see the city from a different perspective and get all the local scoop! When you stroll the early morning streets, mingle with locals over coffee at the corner shop, join a yoga class in the park, or take a sunrise family bike ride along the beach.
Shop & Eat Local
Living like a local while traveling enriches your vacation experience and boosts the economy of the local community. Trade tourist traps and expensive gift shops to support unique, locally owned stores, source your vacation supplies from local markets, farms, and orchards, ask the locals where they choose to eat, and be gracious!
Visiting local wineries, breweries, and distilleries is a wonderful way to soak up the culture of your destination, catch local live music, and meet the locals. Whether you’re sipping solo or taking a local brewery or wine tasting tour, your beverage bucks are likely to leak back into the local community.
Go on a Local Tour
On the topic of tours, the best way to experience a destination like a local is to take a tour run by locals! Seek out authentic activities in your destination – guided walking or biking tours, culinary classes, cultural tours, eco-adventures, wildlife and nature trips, and first hand experiences led by a local. The benefits of taking a locally-led tour or activity are endless – local tour guides have a deeper understanding of the culture and community, insider knowledge to the hidden gems off the beaten path, and a treasure chest of stories about your destination you’re unlikely to find on Google!
From thrilling watersports and guided mountain adventures to private tours and charters, Xplorie partners with locally run tours, activities, and customized destination experiences for every type of traveler!
Attend Local Events
While planning your trip, visit your destinations Chamber of Commerce website to find local events and festivals happening around town during your vacation. These websites often have smaller local community events not found on mainstream marketing channels. Also, keep your eyes peeled for posters pinned on street poles during your walking adventures around town!
Whether it’s live music on the village green, street performers on the boardwalks, theater performances, sports events in the local park, or turkey trots and fun runs, local events are a great way to get plugged in and connect to the local community.
Stay in a Vacation Rental!
Plan your vacation with a locally owned and operated property management company and personalize your stay with a private home away from home in a local neighborhood. A private vacation home gives you the freedom to stay longer to discover your destination, live like a local, and trade the busy hotel buffet for coffee and croissants at a cute local eatery!
Visit our travel blog for destination inspiration, search our selection of professionally managed vacation properties, book your vacation, and enjoy complimentary activities and exclusive offers every day of your stay!
