nardo

Travel is a form of meta-transport we use to experience what our lives could have been in an alternate reality.

Many people seek to go where the locals go, do what the locals do, and eat what the locals eat. We desperately try to taste life outside of our own.

There’s nothing wrong with that. But if you visit a new city and guide yourself solely by the «Top 10 Things to Do in ___ (City),» don’t expect to truly become a local.

For me, it’s about eating whatever, going wherever, and doing what your heart tells you to do.

Many locals go to small restaurants far from the tourist spots, but don’t overthink where—just let themselves to be guided by their senses, as if you were in your local town, but with your eyes wide open.

Many locals actually want to zoom out from their own lives too. So go wherever you find something interesting.

Create like a local. Write, take photos, paint—be a local artist.

If you visit one of the top tourist destinations (which, of course, will be impressive), pay little attention to what others are doing.

You’ll see people in temples, shrines, museums, and so on, focused on getting the perfect picture, as if they’re at a photoshoot on a set.

There’s nothing wrong with that—it’s good for the memories.

But I believe making something meaningful while traveling requires you to move beyond your comfort zone.

Be helpful to the elderly. Be aware of your surroundings. Try to be creative and respectful of the places you visit. Be kind and smile at the people around you. Many are aware of your presence, so be aware of theirs.

And bring all of that back home with you.