Traveling to a new city or country is always so exciting! New sights to see, new cultures, new restaurants, new people, and just a fresh, unique feeling in the air. But have you ever wondered what it’s like to be one of the tourists who visits your hometown? I personally (living in one of the most popular tourist cities in Florida) think about it quite often.
I think it’s safe to say that the majority of people are not able to spend their lives traveling around the world to new and exciting places. In fact, they are probably working at a full time job in their hometown 51 weeks out of the year, just so they can go on their annual one week vacation. But what’s stopping you from exploring your own town with a fresh, new pair of eyes? I’m sure there are corners of your own backyard that you have yet to explore!
Here are 5 ideas for ways that you can act like a tourist in your own town…
1. Book a room
Being a guest at a hotel or bed-and-breakfast is the perfect way to make you feel like a tourist and get you in the mood for exploring. Trying staying in a touristy area, or if you already live in this part of town, try staying in a different neighborhood. Enjoy being a guest instead of a resident, and pick up some information on different tourist attractions in the lobby. Besides, a night away from home will automatically add to the fun!
2. Visit a local attraction
Most likely, when you’re visiting a new town, you first look for the main local attractions (aka tourist attractions). Maybe it’s the beach, a theme park, a monument or museum, a tour, or maybe you’ll find something you didn’t even know your town had to offer! Perhaps you’ve already experienced your town’s local attractions, but this time try looking at it with a new pair eyes like you’re experiencing it for the first time.
3. Go to a restaurant you’ve never been to before
In my town, there are SO MANY different restaurants to choose from. Although if you’re anything like me, you tend to generally go to the same ones that you know and love. But maybe you’ve been driving through downtown and have said ‘I’ve always wanted to try that place.’ Well, just plan a date and go! Experiencing a new atmosphere and cuisine may give you a new sense of appreciation for the town you live in.
4. Explore a new part of town
Maybe it’s downtown, maybe it’s uptown, or maybe it’s the historical district of your town. We are so accustomed to what we see and experience everyday that it’s easy to become blind to the beauty that surrounds us. Exploring a different part of town will allow you to feel like a tourist as well as see a different side of what you experience everyday. I know there’s a super artsy side of Sarasota called the Rosemary District that I’ve always wanted to explore!
5. Find a hidden piece of nature
There’s just something about being outside that gives us a happy feeling. Whether it’s a park bench, a mountainside, or a hike in the woods, the fresh air is a good feeling! I’m the happiest girl in the world when I’m laying on a boat in the middle of the bay. Find a way to explore and appreciate the natural outdoors of your hometown.
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