Preparing for any trip is by no means a walk in the park. There are just too many things to think about: How much money should you bring? Should you pack jeans or leggings? Should you go with opaque or sheer tights? What if you get lost? Most importantly, what things can you do when you get there?

Wherever you go, you’ll find no shortage of things to try, with each activity being a chance to discover the richness of that area’s culture. Below, we’ve rounded up a list of fun things to do if you’re traveling to a new place for the first time.

Speak with the Locals

When traveling to a new city, don’t be afraid to start a conversation with the locals. They can tell you all about what the city can offer, such as where to eat, what attractions to see, and where to stay. They can even teach you insider tips and tricks you can use as you explore the city. Best of all, making local friends can come in handy if you ever want to return for another trip. They may be willing to show you around or even offer you a place to stay the next time you’re in town. One of the insider tips might be the convenience of using a travel eSIM. For instance, a South Korea eSIM can provide you with seamless connectivity.

Try the Food

Exploring a new city isn’t just about the tourist attractions; it’s also about trying the local cuisine. That said, some meals may seem a bit unusual at first. Still, keep an open mind at all times and learn to embrace the uniqueness of the city’s signature dishes. Before digging in, you might want to ask around for recommendations, like hole-in-the-wall establishments you’re unlikely to find on your own. It’s also best to learn what places to avoid, the proper way to eat certain meals, and where the most affordable dining options are.

Drop by a Social Hub

Stopping by social hubs is a great way to meet and socialize with locals and fellow tourists alike. Pick a relatively busy place with a lively atmosphere, like a coffee shop, a pub, or a restaurant. Take this as an opportunity to not only have a good time, but to also make some new friends during your travels.

Join a Walking Tour

Joining a walking tour is a fun way to get acquainted with any new city. It’s also a great chance to not only explore popular tourist spots, but also discover not-so-famous places in the area. Never booked a walking tour before? Don’t worry. Many travel companies offer hassle-free walking tours, and you can even find some of them online. In some cases, all you have to do is check a travel company’s website for any upcoming walking tours, take note of the meet-up place and schedule, sign up online, and simply show up during your scheduled timeslot.

Attend Community Events

Whether it’s a mixer, a music and arts festival, or a fundraiser, attending community events is certainly worthwhile whenever you’re in a new and unfamiliar city. For locals, community events foster volunteerism and community pride. For tourists, they’re enjoyable activities that allow them to make connections and see the city in a new light. Wherever you’re headed, make sure to do some quick research to find out if any community events will be going on during your trip.

Go on a Night Stroll

It’s one thing to see the city during the day; it’s another to experience it during the night. Depending on where you go, it may be quieter, such as in local parks. Other areas can be a bit livelier, especially in areas with lots of bars and clubs. In any case, checking out the city in the evening gives you the chance to discover things you might have missed during the day.

Explore the Markets

From eccentric, locally handcrafted souvenirs to iconic street foods, browsing a city’s markets can give you deeper insights into local life. It’s one of the best ways to relish the city’s atmosphere and learn more about its culture. Go ahead and weave through a maze of stalls, make new friends with market vendors and fellow tourists, and go on a hunt for the best deals.

Take Pictures

If you’re visiting a new city, don’t forget to take lots of photographs while you’re there. Photographs make for one-of-a-kind mementos that can be kept for life, after all. Take pictures of landmarks, food, culture, and rituals. Capture precious moments with your friends and with people you meet along the way. After the trip, you’ll always have something to remember your travels by.

Buy a Souvenir or Two

Before you leave the city, don’t forget to take something home to remind you of where you’ve been and the fantastic experiences you’ve had while you were there. If possible, try choosing products sold in homegrown shops, as it’s a great way to support the city’s local economy. While you shop, why not get your family and friends some thoughtful gifts, too?

Be Spontaneous

Having a fool-proof itinerary is sensible, as it’ll prevent you from wasting time or worrying about where to go next. That said, you should also leave a little wiggle room for spontaneity. There will likely be many little-known places or activities in the city that you would only hear or know about during your trip, after all. If you’re too strict with your schedule, it would be a shame if you missed out on these great experiences. So, make sure to allow for small changes in your itinerary. You never know where your curiosity might take you.

Traveling to a new city can feel scary and intimidating. But with proper planning, it can be a lot less nerve-wracking and a lot of fun. Whether you’re trying out new food, meeting new people, or sightseeing, every new city you visit can give you an exciting adventure to remember. As long as you do the proper preparations and have the right mindset, you can definitely make the most out of each trip you take to cities you’ve never been to before.