Travel tips and guides

Tour guides are the ultimate local experts, with all the know-how to lead you beyond the well-trodden tourist trail to hidden corners of their cities – perhaps a recently opened shop selling artisan crafts, a favourite neighbourhood restaurant or a little-known historic church – and offering fresh perspectives beyond the familiar landmarks. Their fascinating anecdotes and in-depth explanation of customs will give you a profound insight into the local community, allowing you to navigate its social mores respectfully. An expert guide can also steer you away from over-priced tourist traps to genuinely local experiences, giving you the chance to support small businesses and contribute to the local economy.

Preparation is key when it comes to staying relaxed and confident in new places. Research your chosen destination thoroughly online, so you can make an informed decision on safe neighbourhoods when booking your hotel. Download relevant apps to help you plan your itinerary, but do make it realistic so you’re not rushing around all day and remember to build in some time for relaxing. Booking public transport or taxis in advance will also help reduce your stress levels and ensure that you have a problem-free journey. Once you’ve arrived, be open to new experiences and try to engage with people you meet – for instance, ask hotel staff for their sightseeing recommendations and favourite local restaurants.

When you’re hoping for a genuinely local experience, look beyond major tourist centres in favour of lesser-known places. Perhaps swap Warsaw for a stay in gorgeous Poznań, home to colourful baroque houses and Poland’s oldest cathedral. Or instead of the French Riviera's busy beaches, consider Corsica or even Croatia. Once you’ve decided on your destination, do some digging on travel forums, blogs and social media for inspiration, and research markets, book cookery classes or track down restaurants known only to locals. Yes, you can join organised tours focussing on local history, art or gastronomy, but your sense of achievement will be greater if you unearth a hidden treasure by yourself.

Organising a holiday can be a formidable task, but with forethought, a carefully planned itinerary can take away your pain. Efficient day-to-day planning will help you make the most of your getaway, ensuring you have time to see and do everything you want – and of course, planning ahead gives you the chance to save money on flights, transport and accommodation. However, don’t be too rigid with your schedule. Once you arrive at your destination, chatting with local residents and embracing impromptu adventures will help create precious memories of your holiday. And most importantly, don’t hide behind your camera – stay in the moment to get the most out of your experience!