Travelling has always been on of my greatest loves. The feeling of a new city, new culture and completely new surroundings that are calling for an adventure is something that I’ve always craved, but unfortunately, my bank balance doesn’t allow me to live the jet-set life I dream of.
Instead, I’ve found a new way to get this sense of adventure in a way that you probably wouldn’t have expected… Exploring my hometown. I’ve lived here for the majority of my life and it only recently dawned on me that I’d only visited around 20% of the city. There are so many exciting things on my doorstep, it’s a good idea to opt for those when I can’t afford a holiday abroad!
If you want to adopt the same tip I’ve used on how to be a tourist in your own city, here are some tips that I try and use to fulfil my wanderlust feeling and sense of adventure:
#1 | First of All, Get Lost!
No matter if you live in a huge city with loads to do or a small city with only a few shops, there are bound to be several areas of your city that you’ve yet to explore (and are probably unaware that even existed!).
Getting lost intentionally isn’t an easy task. Head into a place you’re familiar with, and toss a coin as to which street and turns you take. Alternatively, you can jump on the first bus you see and find out where it takes you.
You don’t need to rely on anything for this. Even taking a random adventure into a nearby place you haven’t been before can be great in the rain! Just remember, you’re going to have to find a way home, so it’s probably best to take your phone or a map.
#2 | Take a History Tour
The chances are, there are amazing bits of history in your home city that you’re unaware of because you’ve driven or walked past them so many times. Heck, I found out that there was a hugely influential building around 2 miles from my home and I had no idea of it’s significance because I’d never thought to research it.
Even if you’re not a history buff, taking a historical tour around your city or home time is a great way to feel like a tourist. Let’s face it, visiting museums is often high up on the ‘to-do’ list when visiting a new country, so why not do it in your own?
#3 | Head for the Hills
Although it may be unintentional, it’s likely that you’ll spend most of the time in your home city on the floor or at ground-level. However, this limits you from seeing most of the incredible views that towns have to offer!
I’ve always found that heading for the hills has given me a great view of the city that I live in and allows me to view the town in a completely different light than I’m used to. Not only does it make me feel like I’m in a completely new city, but it reminds me that there’s so much left out there to explore.
#4 | Don’t Forget the Camera!
Admittedly, I’m not the greatest photographer in the world but taking a camera with me on my local travels always makes me notice the things around me more. For example, you might not notice a wall plaque on a wall you walk past every day but with camera in-hand, your eyes are always looking for small details to photograph.
Even if you don’t have a huge, fancy camera, whip out the camera on your mobile phone and start taking photos. Not only do they provide great memories, but they also are great to look back on.
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