Everyone has the desire to see the wonders of the world. Thanks to cheap airfares and reasonable accommodations, travelers can fly from one travel destination to another without much to think of. However, the growth of the travel industry sometimes hurts local communities.
Instead of visiting and staying in touristy areas, opt to visit places rich in history. In Asia, this could mean provinces, fishing villages, and farming communities. There’s nothing much to see in business districts and party jungles as these areas only give bad names to tourists and where pickpockets are prevalent. Skip the bus tour. When one makes their own itinerary, they get to enjoy the destination on a different level. While having a guide encourages learning, it doesn’t give much room for new experiences. Jessica Leonard.
If possible, make a local friend. Having a group of tourist friends may still make one feel like they’re in a bubble as opposed to having a local friend who knows that ins and outs of their own country. Instead of staying in a hotel, book a house or an apartment. Airbnb rentals prove to add more to the experience. Jessica Leonard.
It may sound counterintuitive, but quit reading travel guidebooks. Travelers who read the same travel guides end up visiting the same destinations, eating the same food, and capturing the same photos, leaving no room for them to appreciate spots that are frequented and loved by locals. Being respectful never goes out of style. A traveler must always learn the customs and cultures of the places they visit. Jessica Leonard.
Jessica Leonard 