Things I do in a new city that aren’t sightseeing

These are the things I do to get the feel for a new place, none of which involve a landmark. After three years of moving between countries, they’re what make a city start to feel like home.

1. Try a local class

Ceramics, salsa, cooking, making a planner: a class is the quickest way to feel part of a place, and you meet people while you’re at it.

2. Visit the less touristic neighbourhoods

I like hopping on local buses and seeing the parts of a city where people actually live.

3. Go to a market

So many interesting fruits and vegetables. Markets are where I tried most of the Colombian fruits I’d never seen before.

4. Talk to strangers

I have met some of the loveliest people just by striking up a conversation.

5. Go to a supermarket

It sounds boring, but it’s a cool way to find local brands.

6. Make new friends

Try Couchsurfing or the Nomad Table app. I wrote more about how I make friends whilst travelling solo.

7. Take my camera and get lost

People-watching and noticing the small things.

8. Go to a local event

Some of my favourites: Inti Raymi, the Feria de Jerez, the Sitges carnival and the Fiestas de Guápulo.

9. Try street food

Often the best food I try!