Travelling is fun, rejuvenating and refreshing. Travelling is also a lot about soaking oneself in different cultures, embracing a different way of life, relishing different cuisines- it is indeed an enriching exeprience. With so many options for travellers today, you are left spoilt for choices. Here is a list of our favourite destinations which we'd like to explore and live the way a local would. Embark on a souful journey in these destinations; don't just visit these, but actually #LiveThere.
Bangkok
You may have visited Thailand a lot of times as tourist, now it's time to live like a local here. For us it's a land of many cultures, a melting pot of cuisines bursting with flavours and festivals galore. One of the most loved festival by locals is the Songkran festival. If you really want to live like a local in Bangkok then you need to soak yourself in the festivities of Songkran. A water festival, it's somewhat similar to Holi but only played with water. When we said you need to soak yourself, we meant it literally. .
London
If you are staying in Central London, then you've championed being a tourist. You want to live like a local? Ditch that hotel in Paddington or Westminster and head to the suburbs. You don't take taxis you either walk it down or take the tube. You go to Oxford Street but don't shop from H&M- your fashion stop is Primark. Spend the evening like a local at downtown eating fish and chips with chilled beer. You've successfully lived like a true Londoner!
Paris
Talk about living like a local then Montmarte is a place that you truly shouldn't miss. We are not talking about the crowded Place du Tertre and the Sacré Coeur, but the Montmartre of locals. Yes, it still exists! Montmartre has a unique identity because it's like a village in a big city. Soak in all the heritage and cultural delights of Paris here. Also, when asking for help or directions don't forget to say 'Bonjour' – that is a mannerism no one misses.
Rome
Grab a Pizza, a bottle of beer, a pistachio gelato and hang out at Piazza Madonna dei Monti in Monti district. You stand true to the saying 'When in Rome, do as the Romans do.' Don't forget a true Roman enjoys his Sunday morning loaf of bread with olive oil and balsamic vinegars at the market in Campo de' Fiori.
New York
You've got to be living in Manhattan. Start your day with a cup of freshly brewed coffee, a walk in the central park and a classic New York cheesecake. Spend your day at the Drawing Center (New Yorkers love all things artsy) and for lunch head out to Staten Island's Joe & Pats for a divine indulgence in Pizzas. Evenings should be spent in a theatre ending the night with a rice platter from the Halal Guys on 34th Avenue Astoria.
Dubai
Emiratis truly believe in living life King size. Splurge at Dubai Mall, save at Meena Baazar, eat a Shawarma at 2 am, hit the beach anytime of the day and don't forget to keep an SPF50. Dubai also happens to be a gastronomical delight, offering a palate from internationally renowned restaurants.
Singapore
Whenever we talk about Singapore, we think of sky scrappers, the amazing nightlife and the fast paced life people lead. Well Singapore is a lot more than what meets the eye. Food brings people together. Whether be it a social gathering or a calorific treat for your after party, you've got plenty of options to get your doze of spice. The most loved place is Jalan Kayu and you've got to finish the night with a Maggie Goreng only to start your next day with the freshly brewed cup of coffee accompanied with a soft boiled egg and a Kaya toast.
Amsterdam
The city of all things pleasurable, Amsterdam is our favourite pick for those looking for a one- stop- shop of culture and food. One of The Netherland's former colonies is Surinamese and that makes Amsterdam home to the indulgent gastronomic delights of Suriname cuisine. For a glimpse of daily life travel by a bicycle, do not take the canal boat rides. And eat at Pata Negra, the tapas restaurant that serves food which will leave you salivating for days.
Sydney
Mates here take their food, fashion and games very seriously. Some are art lovers as well. To hit it like a local in Sydney you've got to have a good appetite for gourmet cuisine, love your wine, lazy Sunday brunches and a game at SCG is a must. For those who love art, MCA is the place.
Iceland
Now this isn't a very common destination for us Indians, so we'll grant being a little touristy. If you like seafood, you'll be every Icelanders buddy. Be a pro and never step out without an umbrella and a jacket. Since it's a place with very little population its best advised to really put up with a family to really get a feel of the cosy life in this winter land.
These are our favourite destinations, which are best explored when you see them like a local. A stay- cation is the best option. And to help you choose your perfect abode, just log on to Airbnb.com.