Traveling is an enriching experience that lets us explore places, people, and perspectives. A 2023 survey published by Statista offered insights into the popularity of travel in the US. According to this survey, nearly one-third of the country’s population enjoys 2-3 vacations every year. Leisure travel is big, amounting to a massive $751 billion on domestic trips alone.
Whether you choose a destination in the US or abroad, discovering non-touristy attractions can bring something different to the plate. Despite popular tourist spots having their charm, these add-ons promise a more authentic and intimate experience.
But how do you find hidden gems at a destination you have never been to before? Worry not, because this guide answers your questions and offers secrets to discovering the lesser-known places worth visiting.
Utilize the Internet
The internet has revolutionized travel planning in the last few decades. A few clicks is all you need to know your destination without actually being there. According to the Pew Research Center, 96% of U.S. adults are internet users today. Also, 79% of Americans have broadband internet at home. That means they have access to travel info from across the globe.
There are many ways to leverage online resources effectively for vacation planning. For example, websites like TripAdvisor and Yelp provide extensive reviews of local attractions, accommodations, and restaurants. You can get insight into places that are not on the regular tourist radar.
Scour the popular social media platforms such as Instagram and Pinterest for great visual inspiration. Searching hashtags related to your destination is a good idea as they can reveal stunning locations that may not be widely known. Travel influencers often share their personal experiences at these hidden spots.
You can even find helpful travel blogs with detailed information. Beyond just sharing lists of hidden gems, these resources often include detailed maps and public transport information.
Seek Recommendations
An article published on Skift highlights the significance of friends and family when it comes to getting travel recommendations. This publication by Snapchat states that people trust their friends and families rather than digital ads when it comes to vacation insights. In fact, friends and family members are “real travel influencers”.
Word-of-mouth recommendations emerge as one of the most reliable ways to uncover hidden gems. Why not ask people you know if they have traveled to your destination about their favorite lesser-known spots? Personal experiences often reveal insights that guidebooks may miss out on.
Engaging with travel forums like Reddit’s r/travel or Facebook travel groups is also a good option. Local bloggers from different cities write about their neighborhoods and favorite spots. Go through these blogs to get insider knowledge about hidden attractions.
Trust the Locals
You cannot miss out on the local recommendations when it comes to discovering hidden gems at your destination. Interacting with locals can lead you to some of the best-hidden treasures no one else may know about. Your hotel staff, shopkeepers, or fellow diners can be the best sources of information.
You can look for a local tour that focuses on hidden gems rather than popular sightseeing attractions. With these tours, you can get unique insights into the culture and history of your destination.
Exploring local markets or attending community events should also be on your bucket list as they can lead you to unique experiences. You can find local cuisines and artisans not typically found in tourist areas.
Plan Impromptu Excursions
While travel planning is important, you must leave room for spontaneity as it can lead to unexpected discoveries. Impromptu excursions are a norm, particularly for solo travelers who are free to do their own thing. Forbes notes that 76% of Millennials and Gen-Z in the US want to go on solo vacations this year. Nearly a third want to travel to a city they have never visited before.
Whether traveling solo or with a group, give yourself time to wander without a fixed itinerary. Most cities have cab-hailing services like Uber, giving you the freedom to skip public transport and plan your own route. However, be extra mindful of safety when riding solo. According to TorHoerman Law, Uber received an unbelievable 10,000 reports of sexual assault from 2017 to 2020.
Imagine being attacked by a driver in an unknown city. Many victims have filed lawsuits with the help of an Uber sexual assault lawyer, claiming that the company overlooked driver checks and passenger safety. Being alert and avoiding late-night travel can help you stay safe if traveling solo. You can also make trustworthy friends and plan excursions together.
Navigation apps like Google Maps can help you find nearby attractions that are less popular. Look for parks, small museums, or historical sites you may not find in mainstream travel guides. Check out anything that catches your eye, whether a quaint café or an intriguing street art mural. These spontaneous decisions often bring memorable experiences.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some examples of hidden gems?
Hidden gems are the places you may not find on the lists of popular attractions in a city. These may be small neighborhoods, unique restaurants, local parks, local markets, or cultural sites less frequented by tourists. Such undiscovered places in major cities can provide rich cultural experiences.
How do I ensure I find authentic experiences while traveling?
Authentic experiences can make a trip worthwhile. However, finding them takes more than following guides and bucket lists. Look for places where locals gather instead of visiting tourist hotspots. Engage with local communities through markets or festivals to know what your destination is truly about.
Is it safe to explore hidden gems?
Safety should be on top of your mind when away from home in a city you have never been to before. Generally, hidden gems are safe, provided you practice standard travel safety precautions. For example, stay aware of your surroundings, avoid unsafe or unwelcoming areas, and steer clear of being out at odd hours.
Discovering hidden gems during your travels takes vacations to the next level. Being here enriches your experience and fosters deeper connections with the culture and people of your destination. Be spontaneous and think beyond the ordinary because the best things are often not the ones everyone wants to see.
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