3 Tips For Navigating Your Way Through An Unfamiliar City

If you’ve traveled a lot, you’ve likely come up with your own way of doing things so that you can quickly and easily feel comfortable in a new city. But for those who aren’t as comfortable being in new areas and learning how to maneuver their ways around places that they’ve never been before, making their way through a new city can be very intimidating. So to help ensure that the time you spend on your travels isn’t wasted on being nervous or following along a steep learning curve, here are three tips for navigating your way through an unfamiliar city.

Research Transit Options Before You Arrive

Depending on what city you’re visiting and what time of year you’re going to be there, your options for transit will vary. While some cities are very safe for pedestrians, others are better seen from cars, buses, or trains. To know what you should expect from the transit options where you’ll be, Janice Waugh, a contributor to Solo Traveler World, recommends that you do some research before you arrive at your destination. By taking some time to learn about the bus systems, train routes, or even just safe and unsafe neighborhoods, you’ll be able to get around the city much easier once you arrive.

Ask The Right People For Help

Even if the people in the area you’re visiting are generally friendly and helpful to tourists, there are certain people that are likely going to be more helpful to you than others when it comes to getting quality information about a new city. According to Teri of Motherhood Defined, the concierge of your accommodations and the city tourism office for the area can be great resources that you should tap into when trying to get a handle on a new city. These people are used to speaking to newcomers about the area and can give you some invaluable advice that could make your trip much more enjoyable.

Take A Proper City Tour

While looking at a map of the area can help you get a general understanding of where you are and the places you might want to go, Cat Gaa of Sunshine and Siesta shares that nothing can give you a better visual overview of a new city than taking a proper city tour. Although you might be a little wary of doing something so “tourist-y”, the information you can glean from these types of tours can open your eyes to all types of information and suggestions that you may have never uncovered on your own.

If you’re a little nervous about spending some time in a new city during your next travel adventure, consider using the tips mentioned above to help you learn new ways you can take on a city that you’ve never been to before.