5 Tips for Authentic Travel

When it comes to travel, it’s not about the destinations but the experiences we have along the way.

My grandparents who were world-travelers instilled this in me at a young age.

I've traveled to over 30 countries over the last 40 years. I've picked up tips and tricks along that way to help make your travel experiences more meaningful. Regardless of if you're exploring a nearby town or a faraway country.

For example, here’s me in Buenos Aires playing soccer with a local bear group. I played with them and hung out/are meals in places way off the beaten path.

How do I get into situations like this?

Here are my 5 Tips for Authentic Travel that can help you explore anywhere with a new mindset:

1.Think Outside the Tourist Box

Some famous landmarks are great, yes. But some of the most memorable experiences happen when you step off the beaten path. Look for hidden gems that only the locals know about. Find restaurants, parks, or small museums that offer unique perspectives on the place you're visiting.

How?

• One resource I like is Atlas Obscura. It helped me find the world’s only Umbrella Cover Museum on an island off of Portland, Maine.

• Reach out to locals on bear apps like Growlr and ask them where to eat and what activities they do. Or ask locals you come across who work at the hotels and restaurants you go to - see where they recommend.
  

• Search on Youtube for travel videos made by people who live at the location you’re visiting. Instead of taking advice from people who only visited for a week or two.

2.Travel at Your Own Pace

Slow down. There’s no need to rush from one sight to the next. Take time to experience each place you visit. Let yourself explore with curiosity and without pressure.

How?

• One thing I like to do is walk out of my hotel or AirBnB and let myself flow.  We did this at one of my retreats in NYC with our Bear Yoga teacher Nirmal. He calls it a city safari.

  Set a timer for 30 minutes. Walk toward things that attract you. It could be a color on a building that makes you feel happy.  Or a person who looks interesting or something beautiful.  Keep going toward the next thing and see where it takes you. Take time to look at things along the way. Take it all in with all five senses- sight, smell, hearing, taste, and touch. You will end up noticing things you otherwise wouldn't have.

3. Meet the Locals

One of the most rewarding parts of travel is meeting new people. Don’t hesitate to strike up a conversation with someone at a café or ask for local recommendations. These interactions can make your trip much richer. They offer insights that guidebooks can’t.

How?

• Research local gay spots. Like queer-friendly parks or cafes. These will be good places to meet locals.

• Before your trip find people on social media from the location and befriend them. Also put out a post or an IG story letting everyone know where you are traveling and see if anyone if from that location.

• Be curious about the location you are visiting. Take time to better understand the people and what their day-to-day lives are like.

• Change your mindset. You don't have to feel like an outsider looking in. Instead you can be someone who's trying to respect the culture but engage with it.

4. Savor the Local Cuisine

Food is a gateway to understanding the culture of a place. Don’t shy away from trying new dishes and flavors, even if they seem unfamiliar. Eating what the locals eat can turn a meal into an authentic cultural experience.

How?

• Get an understanding of where the touristy areas are. Then search on Google Maps or other apps for restaurants outside of those areas.

• Pro Tip: If a restaurant is full of older people who are local -  and it doesn't look polished  or trendy - the food will likely be amazing.

5. Take Care of Yourself

Remember to listen to your body while traveling. If you need rest, take it. Enjoy the journey at your own pace, and don’t push yourself to do more than you’re comfortable with. Self-care is just as important when you’re on the road.

How?

• It’s all a balance that’s personal to you. But taking 20 minutes to nap or an hour to get a massage will do you wonders. My favorite thing to do now is book a massage for the day of my flight home - that way I’m relaxed at the end of my trip.

Ready to embark on an authentic journey? My Bear Hug retreats are the perfect way to put these tips into practice. You’ll leave with unforgettable experiences and a deeper connection to yourself.

Check out our upcoming retreats and food/tine tours and schedule a call with us today.

Happy & Safe Travels!