My Go-To Ways to Get Off the Beaten Track While Traveling
There’s something special about going where the guidebooks don’t tell you to go. Off-the-beaten-path travel isn’t just about avoiding crowds — it’s about discovering real stories, meeting locals, and creating memories no one else has.
Here’s how I consistently find those hidden gems, no matter where I land.
🌍 1. Stay in Neighborhoods, Not Tourist Zones
Skip the big hotel chains in the city center. Instead, book a guesthouse or Airbnb in a local neighborhood. You’ll find cheaper eats, quieter evenings, and a better feel for the everyday rhythm of life.
Pro Tip: Ask your host where they would take a visiting friend — it’s rarely a place listed on TripAdvisor.
🚶 2. Walk with No Map (But Keep One Handy)
One of my favorite things to do is pick a direction and walk — slowly. No agenda, no GPS. I duck into cafes, peek at markets, or follow a street musician’s sound. That’s how I’ve found secret beaches in Portugal and open-air book markets in Uruguay.
Of course, keep your offline map app nearby… just in case.
💬 3. Learn Basic Local Phrases
You’d be amazed how a few words like “hello,” “thank you,” or “how much?” in the local language open doors. Locals appreciate the effort, and they’re more likely to share special spots with you when they see you’re genuinely interested in their culture.
🛵 4. Use Public Transport Like a Local
Buses, shared vans, even trains in less touristy areas — you’ll overhear conversations, discover small towns, and experience the country’s real pace. I once ended up at a spontaneous festival in Thailand just because I hopped on the wrong bus.
And it was one of the best days of the trip.
📷 5. Follow Local Instagram Hashtags
Before I visit a new place, I’ll search hashtags that locals use (like #MexicoCityEats instead of just #MexicoCity). You’ll find current events, trending hangouts, or hole-in-the-wall cafes you won’t find on Google Maps.