3 Things You Should Do in Every City
No matter where you are in the world, there are 3 things you should do in every city you visit to get the most out of your time there.
1. Gain a Vantage Point
In other words, climb something tall! Not only will you feel a sense of accomplishment for making it to the top but you’ll also be rewarded with an amazing view. I climbed 409 stairs on Ti Top Island in Vietnam to see this view of Halong Bay. I may have wanted to pass out during the climb but it was well worth it in the end.
Seeing a place from up above is a great way to get a layout of the land as well as gain a new perspective of the city. Plus, you’ll get great pictures!
2. Take a Walking Tour
First I’m telling you to climb things, and now I’m telling you to walk around. Maybe the fourth item should be to wear comfortable shoes 😉 But in all seriousness, walking tours are a great way to learn more about the city you’re in. I went on a free walking tour in Budapest, where I got to rub the fat policeman statue’s belly for good luck – something I would have never known to do otherwise.
Walking tours typically touch upon the history of the place and take you to the major sights. Even better, they’re often free. All you have to do is tip the guide. The front desk staff at your hostel or concierge at your hotel will most likely know about nearby walking tours and can tell you where and when they start.
Don’t be afraid to ask questions during or after the tours! The tour guides are often locals and are super knowledgeable about all the best local spots. I especially like to ask them for restaurant recommendations, which brings me to my next point…
3. Eat & Drink the Local Cuisine
Because who doesn’t love to eat?! I used to be a super picky eater until I realized I was missing out on a whole world of amazing food. Trying the local cuisine is a great way to embrace the culture of the place you’re visiting. In some counties, eating is a way of life. The Italians spend hours at each meal, savoring the food, enjoying each other’s company, and relaxing. It’s really wonderful (as is the pasta)!
Not everything you eat or drink will be to your liking but you can at least leave knowing you tried it. Guinea pig is a delicacy in Peru, and I’m still kicking myself for not trying it while I was there. Learn from my mistakes!
Better yet, you can even take a cooking class to learn how to make the local specialties. I’ve made green curry and cashew chicken in Thailand with Thai Farm Cooking School and baguettes in Paris with La Cuisine Paris. Both classes were a blast and the food was delicious (if I do say so myself!).
It’s also really fun to come home and go to a restaurant that serves the same type of food you just had. You can pretend you’re still on your trip and get rid of those pesky post-vacation blues.
What are your favorite things to do in every city you visit?
