Rick Steves' Advice Can Help You Have A More Immersive Experience While Traveling Abroad

Travel pro Rick Steves has been visiting Europe and giving advice about it for decades now, and he's noticed a behavior that is robbing many tourists of an immersive experience on vacation: holding on to our American-ness rather than trying to adapt to our surroundings. On his website, he says, "Many travelers tramp through foreign lands like they're visiting a cultural zoo. 'Ooh, that guy in lederhosen yodeled! Excuse me, could you do that again in the sunshine so I can get a good picture?'" While that might feel more comfortable, it's keeping you from really connecting to where you are. Steves reminds us that each city is more than the stereotypes we know from TV and film. His solution? Do as he does, and become a "cultural chameleon" and a "temporary local." Your travels will be enhanced in ways you may not have experienced before if you stop looking at your time in another country as though you're viewing a film, and more as if you're one of the people who live there. 

This can include things like sampling the local cuisine, even if it's something you've never tried before. Try hitting a grocery store to see the different brands and types of foods that are popular in the area. Grab a few things, and ask for some recommendations. You can even try Google Translate to have a live-translated conversation, and use the camera feature to hover over labels to see them in English. Steves also does things like drinking tea in the morning in Britain (despite not doing it at home) or taking a siesta in the middle of the day in Spain. However, being a cultural chameleon goes beyond that.

First, where you stay matters more than you think. Rick Steves has said on his website in the past that large, expensive hotels keep you separated from the real experience of living in a foreign city, and he recommends trying something more authentic, like a bed and breakfast, a local hotel, or a hostel, where you can meet other travelers. He even suggests places like monasteries or doing a house swap, which can make your visit more unique.

Steves also says that going off the beaten path a bit, beyond the major tourist spots, can allow you to get more of a sense of the city. Walking around the area, rather than driving, can also lead to discoveries, whether it's a boutique that specializes in handcrafted items or a little cafe with fresh, homemade food. Shop at a local farmers market for picnic items, and enjoy them in the village park on a sunny day. The travel guru also mentions going to a church for a service rather than just looking at the architecture (no matter what your personal beliefs may be). Even sporting events can give you a great, authentic experience.

Beyond where you go is who you talk to. Of course, you want to bond with the people you're traveling with, but what about the people who live there? You can strike up a conversation, or take part in something like the Italian custom of the passeggiata, where the locals head out to the town piazza in the evening to catch up and have a chat. You can even splurge on a local guide on the first day so you can get a real sense of what to see, where to eat, and what to do. Go home with unique stories and memories, and maybe even some new friends.