Travel Like A Local: Insider Tips From Every Continent

Want to see the world through the eyes of locals? We’ve gathered insider tips from people who know their cities and countries best. Let them guide you to the hidden spots, secret experiences, and authentic gems tourists often miss. This is how you travel like a local!

North America

Anna from the United States: "Skip the chain restaurants and go to an old-school diner. We love them for comfort food—pancakes, pie, milkshakes—you name it. And if you're in cities like New York or Chicago, ask about speakeasies. Hidden bars with great cocktails are our secret haunts."

Jake from Canada: "If you’re in British Columbia, Garibaldi Lake is a must. It’s way quieter than the big national parks, and the views are incredible. The Maritimes have some beautiful, quiet coastal trails too—whale-watching with hardly anyone around is just magical."

Isabel from Mexico: "Everyone knows about the taco stands in Mexico City, but the best ones are in the markets. Mercado de Jamaica is a favorite of mine for real, homemade-style tacos. They’re fresher and tastier than anything you'll find in the tourist spots."

South America

Lucía from Argentina: "You’re here for tango, right? Forget the big shows—they’re for tourists. Locals like me go to milongas, smaller, intimate places where we dance and hang out. If you’re craving a steak, head to a parrilla outside the tourist areas. The suburbs have some of the best, hands down!"

Pedro from Peru: "Lima’s ceviche is famous, but we locals know the best ones come from market stalls. Mercado de Surquillo is my go-to. It’s fresh, authentic, and packed with locals who know a thing or two about good ceviche!"

Fernanda from Brazil: "Rio is great, but for a more relaxed beach experience, head to Praia do Rosa in Santa Catarina. It’s one of our hidden gems—peaceful, beautiful, and not crowded with tourists. If you want to really feel the samba spirit, join a bloco (street party) instead of going to a big club!"

Europe

Émilie from France: "The Eiffel Tower is nice, but Canal Saint-Martin is where we Parisians go to relax. Grab a drink, stroll along the water, and check out the local cafés and boutiques. It’s peaceful and far from the tourist crowds."

Giovanni from Italy: "Gelato is a must, but don’t fall for the shops in touristy squares. If you ask a local, we’ll point you to the best places. Gelateria dei Gracchi in Rome is my favorite—authentic flavors, and you won’t see many tourists there."

Karl from Germany: "Oktoberfest is fun, but after that, you’ll find us in beer gardens like the Hirschgarten. It’s more laid-back, and you can relax with a beer without being surrounded by tourists. It's our go-to spot in Munich."

Africa

Lindiwe from South Africa: "When I’m not working, I love heading to Muizenberg Beach. It’s not as crowded as the main Cape Town spots, and we locals come here for surfing, great coffee, and sunbathing without all the tourists.

Omar from Morocco: "Everyone knows about the souks in Marrakech, but I always tell visitors to check out the smaller markets in places like Essaouira. You’ll get better prices, and the shopping is more relaxed. Plus, it’s where we go for the best local crafts."

Mwangi from Kenya: "Most tourists only think about the Maasai Mara, but Samburu and Laikipia are where we like to go for safaris. The wildlife is amazing, and there are fewer crowds. You get a more intimate experience with nature."

Lindiwe from South Africa: "When I’m not working, I love heading to Muizen

Asia

Hiroshi from Japan: "Tokyo has plenty of famous ramen places, but the best ones are hidden. Look for spots where salarymen (office workers) go for lunch. These tiny, unassuming places serve the best ramen in the city. If there’s a line of locals, you’re in the right place!"

Hiroshi from Japan: "Tokyo has plenty of famous ramen places, but the best ones are hidden. Look for spots where salarymen (office workers) go for lunch. These tiny, unassuming places serve the best ramen in th

Trang from Vietnam: "Cafés are nice, but if you really want to experience Vietnam like we do, get your coffee from a street stand. Order a cà phê sữa đá and sit on a plastic stool while you people-watch. That’s how we start our day here."

Priya from India: "If you want real Indian food, skip the fancy restaurants and find a dhaba. These family-run places serve the most authentic dishes, and the flavors are unbeatable. Ask any local, and we’ll point you to our favorite spots."

Oceania

Jack from Australia: "Sure, Bondi Beach is famous, but Burleigh Heads is where we locals go to get away from the crowds. It’s quieter, has beautiful views, and the surfers love it. It’s our favorite spot to relax."

Sophie from New Zealand: "Rotorua’s hot springs are great, but if you want a truly local experience, head to Kerosene Creek. It’s hidden in the forest, and the natural springs are peaceful. Ask a local, and we’ll show you the way!"

Tui from Fiji: "The resorts are nice, but the best way to experience Fiji is by visiting one of our villages. Join us for a kava ceremony, watch traditional dances, and we’ll show you what life here is really like. You’ll leave with a deeper understanding of our culture."

Antarctica

Alex, a researcher in Antarctica: "Most tourists don’t know about the hidden gems out here. Talk to us researchers—we’ve spent years exploring this place. We can show you ice caves or quieter spots to watch wildlife. Trust me, there’s so much more than what the tours show you."