There is probably no single best way to begin exploring a new city, but there are several excellent options. Exploring a new city, whether you’re just passing through or relocating, can be fun and entertaining if you know where to look for interesting things.
The city’s Chamber of Commerce or tourism department is one of the first places to go when exploring a new city. These departments can be found online in moderate to large cities, and they may offer travel deals, restaurant discounts, or advance notice on walking tours. These city guides can also provide transportation information, such as bus schedules and routes, which makes exploring a new city much easier.
The tourism department of a city is frequently geared toward tourists, which means you may be directed to more expensive destinations. Examining the many guidebooks available for each location is another good place to look for city “secrets” on exploring a new city on the cheap. Select the most recent guidebooks available, as they will contain the most up-to-date information. In fact, simply browsing a few guidebooks in the bookstore can aid in the planning of a trip.
The Internet is becoming a more and more important source of information. Some people even create city guides that include information on popular local attractions and things to do. Many travel websites may provide you with a wealth of free information that will make getting around a new city a breeze. If you’re driving, online mapping sites can make directions easier to follow and get you to your destination faster.
Blogs and online chat rooms, on the other hand, can be a great way to learn about a new city. Locals’ online chat rooms are frequently a great place to ask about the best places to visit, stay, and eat.
Another great way to learn about a new city is to watch one of the many television travel shows that feature different cities on a regular basis. These frequently contain helpful hints on various entertainment options or must-see locations. Some programs cater to low-budget travelers, while others cater to middle-income or high-end travelers.
Many programs on channels like the Food Network are devoted to reviewing different restaurants in a specific area, which can be very helpful when exploring a new city. Many people find Rachel Ray’s $40 a Day to be the most useful of these because she generally has great tips on good food that isn’t too expensive.
Also, when you first arrive in a new city, ask for assistance from the locals. Hotel and motel staff can provide you with a wealth of information about local restaurants, shops, and tourist attractions. You could also simply ask a friendly-looking person in a store where they get their favorite things, such as popular foods or gifts.
Finally, there are a plethora of podcasts dedicated to city exploration. Some of them are free, while others may cost a few dollars. The majority of them are reasonably priced. If you have an iPod or MP3 player, these can be very useful. Some podcasts will even take you on tours of a city or a museum. The more you learn from the methods above, the more likely you are to have a good time on your trip. Good luck on your journey!