Off-the-beaten-track

Getting off the beaten track starts with using a bit of imagination – and resisting the urge to follow the usual itinerary. Skip the top attractions and explore small towns, rural villages or lesser-known neighbourhoods within large cities. Visit local markets where residents shop and socialise, or spend time in family-run cafés and under-the-radar restaurants. Explore the side streets or countryside lanes with no fixed plan and see where you end up. Even in popular destinations, you don't have to go far off the main street to discover local life. Ask your concierge for their favourite spots rather than tourist must-sees. Above all, stay curious and open; sometimes a simple conversation or accidental wrong turn can lead to the most authentic experiences.

Exploring lesser-known destinations offers a sense of adventure that more famous places can't match. Rather than feeling like you should tick off the sights, you'll discover hidden gems that aren't in the travel guides or social media feeds. When you venture off the beaten path, you are more likely to be welcomed by locals who aren't jaded by constant tourism, enabling you to tune into local life and connect more authentically. Not knowing what to expect pushes you to be more present, curious and open to experiences. It's the unplanned encounters – the hidden café with the best food you've ever tasted, or the breathtaking view you come across after taking a wrong turn – that become the stories you tell for years.

To add offbeat experiences to a classic itinerary, all you need is a little curiosity and flexibility. Think of your main attractions as anchors, then build around them with lesser-known sights or local experiences. For example, if you're visiting a famous museum, be sure to explore the surrounding neighbourhood for quirky cafés, hidden art galleries or community events. Take side streets instead of main ones and schedule some free time for spontaneous wandering. One of the best ways to discover alternative activities or unusual adventures is to ask local residents or your concierge for recommendations. The local tourist office may also be able to help you with some creative suggestions.