Don’t be afraid to be a local
Visiting a different country can be a bit overwhelming considering the language barrier, unfamiliar cuisine, local fashion and general cultural differences. Don’t be afraid to be a local though. A little research on what people wear, eat and how people act before your trip can go a long way. Give it a shot! You will not regret.
First of all, learn some useful phrases in the language of the country you are visiting. Phrases like “How much does this/that cost?”, “Where is…” and, of course, the obvious hello, goodbye, please and thank you. Of course, most people will know from your accent, even if you are asking something in their language, that you are not a local or native speaker of their language. However, they will appreciate the kind gesture that you have taken the time and energy to try to communicate in their native language. It could prove to be a positive icebreaker when trying to shop, order food/drinks and meet people. But anyway, don’t be afraid to try and definitely don’t walk up to them and start waving and gesturing like you’re dancing at the YMCA.
Second, dress accordingly. In Italy, for example, they don’t usually wear shorts, even though it can get quite hot. If you dress like a tourist, chances are, though not in all cases, you’ll be treated like one. People in different countries can spot a tourist a mile away, so at least make it a bit of a challenge for them. Ditch the fanny packs, cargo shorts, and Crocs/flip-flops/running shoes for a pair of khaki pants, a versatile pair of walking shoes, and a messenger bag to use as a day bag.
Also, trying the cuisine in different countries can be a bit of a culture shock as each country has some delicacies that you may not be too familiar with or never knew were edible or even existed. It’s a good idea to ask the waiter/waitress what they recommend, but don’t shy away from the weird stuff, because it might be what they really recommend. Be bold, not a typical tourist.
For example, France has Escargot and, yes, it may sound a bit unappetizing because they are escargot, but they are really tasty escargot! Most people have probably heard of Escargot and steer clear of it for what it is. The same goes for Italy, which has its stuffed squid, anchovies (in several different shapes), and Spaghetti al Nero di Seppia (squid ink pasta). The Netherlands has Bitterballen, which is a sticky dough made from beef flour and broth that is fried, and of course their pickled herring, while the Czech Republic loves their Pork Knuckle or Pork Knee. One suggestion: stay away from Burger King and do it! You’d be amazed at the incredible flavors that can come out of such things. Although, the fried insects of different kinds in Cambodia can take most of their comfort zone. Watch a few episodes of Andrew Zimmern’s “Strange Foods,” though, and you might make eating snails, squid, and bugs look like a handful of jelly beans.
Of course, when traveling to a different country/city, you need to visit all the typical historical sights and museums, but also visit the places frequented by the locals. Whether it’s an off the beaten path pub, a restaurant where English menus don’t exist, or taking part in local activities like hiring a small boat to cruise the Amsterdam canals with some local cheese and beer, picking up some cured meats , cheeses and a good white wine and have a picnic in a nearby park for lunch in Paris, drink a beer with breakfast in Germany or fight for a place to get a cake and espresso for breakfast in a local cafe in Italy.
Fear won’t get you closer to the local experience we all crave when we travel. So equip yourself with a little knowledge beforehand and do your best to maximize your experience abroad, wherever you may be. Good luck and of course don’t be afraid to be a local!