So you want to be a tourist? Maybe you don’t. Whether you like it or not we all become tourists at some point. You might be waiting in a ridiculous line and your not 100% sure why. Or maybe you find yourself taking a selfie with a building. Or even operating a selfie pole for those who are serious about touristing. There are definitely more graceful ways to be a tourist in a new country.

I’m a huge believer in local knowledge in order to truly experience the best of a place. However, tourist destinations have generally become popular for a reason and have earnt the right to be snapped as much as they are. You don’t have to be swept away with the crowds. Be smart people.

So here are some tips that I’ve learnt so far…

Think about what is really important to you. If you don’t care two hoots about Shakespeare then maybe don’t fork out the cash to watch a play. Or if cars are merely a means of transport then what are you doing in a automobile museum? And if you can’t understand how a urinal can be considered art then the Tate Modern isn’t for you.  By all means broaden your horizons, but think it through.

Don’t be afraid of public transport. One of my favourite things about London so far has been the big red buses. Did you know that it’s only £1.50 to ride one of these bad boys and they will get you to your destination just like those tourist buses? Sometimes it may be the more scenic route… but isn’t that what you’ve flown to London for anyway? Download the city mapper app and you’ll be catching the bus and the tube like a pro.

It’s OK to get the clichè shot. I won’t hold it against you… go on, I know you wanna.  But please, please, just take the one then enjoy the scenery. Take a moment to soak it in. Life is more then an insta photo and your not validated by likes.

Souvenirs, do you really need them? I don’t really believe in souvenirs. Sure I’ve done the ‘magnet’ and ‘key chain’ thing in the past. But I don’t think you have to invest in a thousand cheap and nasty mugs with a  cheesy slogan to commemorate your trip. Instead I like to buy practical things that I’ll use. Clothes are my favourite. Then when someone asks “Where did you get your jeans from?” and I can say “Oh these? They are from the LondonCamden Markets.”

Take a picnic. Amongst all the crowds there are money hungry food vendors who are just waiting to sell you some over-priced, less then average food. If there is a unique local dining experience that is a must try then I’d say go for it because food is a massive part of travelling, well especially for me anyway. Do your research. If food is fuel to you rather then an experience then do yourself a favour and pack it yourself. Plus there are heaps of parks in London that are perfect for a picnic.

Learn something. Commercial tours can be great for knowlegde and knowing things increases your appreciation for a place. If you search sometimes you can find free walking tours. I’m also a fan of a good bike tour. However you can also do some leaning for yourself if you’re motivated enough.  I recommend the lonely planet app, you can download guides for free and then learn about the sites of interest. It also has a range of suggestions for things to do, places to see and things to eat.

Like I said,  truly the best way to tourist is to not tourist at all and do as the locals do. If you have access to local knowledge definitely use that! If not then ask a local, the waitress at your restaurant or a bus driver. Try to get a taste of the culture of the place. Appreciate for the little things as well as the big things.

Happy touristing!