Planning on using that hard-earned cash you earned during term time to go this summer? Whether you’re headed to Asia or the Americas, here are some tips on how to make the most of a city.
Top ten
Pick your top ten places that you want to see. Do some research and see what other people enjoyed. Maybe it’s a cool restaurant or an ancient castle, get it all on a list and prioritise the most important. There’s nothing worse than arriving and wandering aimlessly, not sure where to go first – you may only have a couple of days, so don’t waste it!
Map check
Spend some time checking maps, working out where things are, and how you get from A to B. You can coordinate this with places that you want to visit and see sights in the same area rather than hopping back and forth across a massive city wasting time.
Get Around
Work out the best way to get around the city, whether it be gondola, Boris bike, bus or metro there will be many options to consider. Think about what’s the most cost effective or the best way to see things on the move. Lots of cities have tour buses that are relatively cheap and a great way to see everything if you’ve only got a day there.
Read the reviews
Get on Trip Advisor and Lonely Planet, even Google Maps is pretty handy with recommendations these days. Whether it’s a restaurant, a tour or a sight, these websites will give you an idea of what to expect and whether to even bother. Look at the top restaurants listed to pick a great dinner spot away from the normal tourist areas to experience the real vibes of a city.
Stay central
If you can afford to, stay where the action is! There are plenty of cheap ways to do this, such as Airbnb and Coachsurfing, where you can stay with a local who may even show you around or share a meal and is a great way to get to know people all over the world. Airbnb’s new feature for experiences is a great way to get an idea of activities you might want to do while you’re there like a specific food tasting or local walks and events.
Edited by: Imogen Hibberd
Sources
http://lookbook.nu/look/2081285-Girl-In-The-City-Half-L
http://www.bikoadventures.com/prague-active-discovery-sightseeing/
http://parisbyscooter.com/paris-sightseeing/
http://www.shifteast.com/taxis-in-asia-part-two/
http://www.londonandpartners.com/media-centre/how-we-can-help/media-itinerary-hidden-gems
https://mosquitosquadmaryland.files.wordpress.com/2015/08/outdoor_party_montgomery_county.jpg