Over the last 18 months the world has been turned completely on its head. The entire tourism industry still has a million question marks over its head, many local businesses are still just scraping by, and who knows when we will be back to any form of ‘normal’. But if the last 18 months have taught us anything, its how to value the towns and communities we’ve grown up in. To shop local, check on our neighbours, rediscover our local landscapes, and experience some of the exciting things that are right on our very doorsteps. So as Summer approaches, here are some top tips for becoming a tourist in your own hometown!
Local Tourist Attractions
More often than not we tend to overlook the attractions that are right on our doorsteps. But pretty much every town and city will have it’s own tourist attractions and unique attributes, whether that be a waterfall, castle or museum. If you’re stuck with where to go or what to do, or just need a new perspective, head to your local tourism information point and find the best place to start!
Make it a ‘Day-Trip’
If the weather forecast is looking hopeful for blue skies, why not head out on a day trip? Explore your local coastline, area of natural beauty, or national park, and spend the day discovering the hidden gems that the natural world has to offer. I’m lucky enough to live just over an hour away from The Lake District in the UK, and we often take day-trips to visit the area!
Play Tour Guide
Perhaps someone you know is visiting your town or city. Why not offer to take them on a tour of your favourite attractions, coffee shops or events? It’s a great way for you to rediscover some amazing spots, as well as giving your friends or family a cheap alternative to organised tours.
Discover some Local Cuisine
We all have our go-to coffee shops, pubs or restaurants, but why not try visiting some place new? Now more than ever it’s so important to support local businesses!
Google It
More than likely, there are places nearby that you’ve never thought of visiting. Simply searching ‘Places to visit near…’, ‘Restaurants near…’, ‘Tourist attractions near…’, can open up a whole host of options for you!
Scavenger Hunt
A scavenger hunt is a great way to get your little ones involved in exploring your home town. Filled with riddles, questions, and clues, it can lead you around some of the best spots in your area, with the added bonus of a prize at the end (maybe a good old mug of steaming hot chocolate at a little coffee shop!).
Weekend Break
Just because it’s your home town, it doesn’t mean you can’t splash out! Although it’s a staycation, you could always book a weekend’s stay at a local hotel, B&B or holiday cottage and fully immerse yourself in your Staycation!
Just do it!
I bet there’s something you’ve always wanted to do in your home town. Whether that be visiting a Castle, taking a tour or trying out a restaurant, now is the perfect time to just give it a go. You might regret it if you don’t!
Why not take an adventure today? No matter where you are in the world, every village, town and city has so much to discover, by locals and tourists alike. Personally, I love discovering what’s right on my doorstep, and I love sharing my discoveries with friends, family and visitors.
If you have a local hotspot in your hometown you think everyone should visit, make sure you leave a comment below!
Charley x
Excellent points. Last fall, my husband and I decided to explore a different local walking trail every week. We discovered so many beautiful places that we had never visited, despite living in our community for over 25 years.
LikeLiked by 1 person
That’s such a great idea! I’m glad you managed to discover some new spots!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Love this. I got stuck in the UK for my summer break for the first time in years and I’ve found so many new places
LikeLike
There’s so many hidden spots in your local area that you didn’t know about. During lockdown I’ve found so many! It’s important to promote travelling in your home city at the moment as we can’t go to far away!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Great ideas! I’ve anyways wanted to play tourist in my own city and see it in a new light.
LikeLike
Good tips. Staycation is just awesome enough.
LikeLike
Love this post! I love wandering through my hometown and discovering new places and details!
LikeLike
I’ve how you can make a trip of something that feels familiar. I’m going to take into consideration your ideas. ❤️❤️
LikeLiked by 1 person
Lovely ideas! Especially in times where travel will be limited, it’s important to remember you can “vacation” near home and have a great experience.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Upto the task. Very innovative work
LikeLiked by 1 person
I like these tips! I remember pitching this same article topic for my writers before I stopped editing for a online publication. There are so many things that we can do that we never think today. Heck, if the coffee shop across the street had better tasting coffee, I’d give them a try but I’ll just stick to my kitchen and explore the downtown area again.
LikeLiked by 1 person