Explore // Travel Suggestions

The internet has made travelling so easy. Our travelling options are no longer limited to itineraries set by travel agencies. All we need are our travel dates, a click of a few buttons, a swipe of a credit card and a travelling booking is confirmed. With the efficiency and convenience of technology in hand, I dare say that we are getting a tad too dependent on the internet for travel recommendations. 

​If you enjoy travelling and exploring new places with a slower and carefree pace, you may enjoy these tips that Jia and I swear by. 

​Let's go!

Make The Tourist Centre Your First Stop
Always drop by a tourist centre to get a walking map of the area before you start exploring. The suggested walking routes in these maps will always take you to places of interest, so it is a really easy and fun way to explore a brand new town or city without a tour guide. Information brochures are filled with good-to-know tips about the city and who knows, you may even find discount coupons for popular attractions or theatre shows.

Join A Walking Or Cycling Tour
It is relatively easy to explore and navigate a new city on your own if you are armed with a trusty map and good walking shoes. Since most maps don’t go into details about the significance of historic buildings, we suggest joining free walking tours offered by the city’s enthusiastic locals. It is a wonderful way to learn about the place from the perspective of a local and it is always great to make new friends in new places!

If your budget allows for it, go on a cycling or Segway tour to cover more city ground and get a little more active. 

Check Out Local Produce
Make exploring a farmer’s market over the weekends a top priority when you travel. You can try different local cuisines from stalls or food trucks, pick out fresh flowers and even buy some homemade jams as souvenirs. Depending on the type and size of the market, you may find different types of knickknacks and collectibles. 

Attempt To Speak The Language
A good way to quickly soak up the culture of a new city is to speak their language. You don’t have to be fluent to be understood. All you need is some words to get a basic conversation started. Travelling is all about learning too, right?

Pack A Cute Dress
A pretty dress can come in handy if you chance upon a cool restaurant or simply for a day that you are feeling extra dressy. This will come in handy if you tend to only pack jeans, t-shirts and sneakers. And don’t leave out scarves! They are versatile, lightweight and can easily glam up any outfit. ​

Alight At Unexpected Places
Exploring small towns on the map makes a road trip fun. Whether you are stopping by to refuel the car or to take a toilet break, try to squeeze in some time to take a look around. Some small towns have the coolest antique shops or old and traditional bakeries. You will never know what you will find!

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Do you have any interesting travel tips to share? Let me know!

xMin