Travel & Hotspots

Follow these 5 lessons and no one will see that you are a tourist

Sander and I were lost two weeks ago. After a few hours Barcelona our hotel had either moved or been demolished – it couldn't be otherwise. Armed with a large map, a beach bag, and a camera from Heb Ik Jou Daar, it was immediately clear that we were lost, sad tourist types. Because they are recognizable from thousands.

And you know, that's not cool. Because you want to blend in with the locals. How do you do that? Follow these 5 lessons and no one will see that you are on a city trip with your partner.

Lesson 1: dress differently than you actually want to

Ultimately, we Dutch folks are always inclined to walk around in a fluttery dress and flip-flops at the slightest hint of sunshine. So too abroad. But really, keep that thin cardigan on during the day and you'll see that you stand out much less among the locals. The same goes for flashy sunglasses. Oh, and that ‘I Love London, New York, or Barca’ T-shirt? Stay far away from that. And that backpack? It stays at home too.

Lesson 2: do your research

Looking up the main streets on Google Maps at home is super smart. This way, you already know exactly which route to take to get to those nice shopping streets so you don't come across as a total dodo.

Lesson 3: hide that map

Seems like a clear story. And if you do need navigation, set it up on your phone from your hotel, you won't need wifi during the walk and it looks a lot better than that map, because otherwise you might as well write TOURIST on your forehead. Not bringing your phone? Check the map in the hotel and jot down any landmarks in a small notebook.

Lesson 4: know the currency

If there's one thing that dirty sellers and scammers recognize tourists by, it's their wallet. When visiting New York you really leave those euros in the hotel and only take the dollars out the door. Also, be aware of the exchange rate, because you'll immediately be caught out with the question: ‘Eh, how much is this in euros?’

Lesson 5: learn a few words of the language

Sander annoyed all the waiters by continuing to speak English, but I threw in my Spanish words and immediately gained respect. Just learn the basics like ‘good afternoon’, ‘thank you‘, ’may we have the bill?‘, and ’goodbye'. Really, learn un poco of the language and you'll come across as less touristy.

Bon voyage!