How to experience local life on your holiday

Brits continue to take more international holidays each year — but not all holidays are made equal. While many travellers still enjoy lounging on a beach, an increasing number of travellers are seeking a deeper connection with local life.

This immersive style of travel is transforming the holiday experience. Here’s how you can connect with local communities on your next trip.

 

Engage with local cuisine

One of the easiest ways to experience local life is through food. Dining like a local reveals a region’s culture, history and traditions.

Rather than crowded tourist spots, opt for family-run restaurants, local eateries or street food. These options not only serve authentic flavours but also offer a glimpse into everyday life.

If possible, join a cooking class or food tour to deepen your connection with local cuisine. This hands-on experience with traditional dishes adds a layer of cultural understanding — and you’ll pick up some culinary skills along the way!

 

Participate in community activities

Community-based activities help you immerse yourself in local culture. Whenever possible, choose tours led by local guides or take part in workshops that focus on traditional crafts such as pottery, weaving or dance. These experiences will help you experience the ‘real’ culture while supporting local businesses, residents and artisans.

Volunteering can also be a rewarding way to engage with the community. As well as contributing to the cause, you can get a deeper appreciation for the destination.

If volunteering isn’t for you, consider attending local festivals or events to experience cultural traditions and connect with locals.

 

Learn the language

Learning even a few basic phrases in the local language can enhance your travel experience. While you don’t need to be fluent, understanding and using key phrases such as greetings, thank you and simple ordering phrases shows respect for the culture and helps bridge the gap between travellers and locals.

Apps like Duolingo and Babbel are great tools for learning essential phrases before your trip. If you’re planning a holiday to Turkey, knowing how to say «Merhaba» (Hello) or «Teşekkür ederim» (Thank you) can go a long way in establishing rapport with locals.

Even small efforts to speak the language are often warmly received, leading to more meaningful interactions and sometimes even friendships. As a bonus, learning the language can help you navigate local markets, order your favourite meal, or give directions to a taxi driver — all of which enhance your overall experience.

 

Concluding thoughts…

Prioritising authentic engagement with local life can transform a run-of-the-mill holiday into a trip of a lifetime. By incorporating these ideas into your travel plans, you can ensure your holiday leaves you feeling like a local.