A guide to wandering
Ever feel like ditching your phone in a new city and just wandering? DK’s Overseas Ambassador, Payton Letko, based in Tokyo, Japan, shares top tips on how to let yourself explore a destination without an itinerary:
We love discovering hidden gems, cozy cafes, vibrant street art, and local hangouts — and sometimes the best way discover new and exciting places is to just let yourself meander. Find the idea a little daunting? Here are our tips and tricks — a guide to wandering — so you can find unique and authentic experiences on your travels.
Let's start with the basics, so you can tackle a new destination — or a familiar place — with a fresh perspective:
-
Give yourself time. It's difficult to delve into an area when you have somewhere else to be in thirty minutes.
-
Fuel up. You’re more likely to become overwhelmed if you wander on an empty stomach.
-
Safety first. Bring a fully-functional mobile device, portable charger, or map. Make sure you can find your way back home.
-
Be present. Let your feet do the wandering, not your mind.
-
Use your guide book. Your travel guide can help you get the most out of your time when wandering — especially when you're in a new city. Guidebooks are not rule books, they're tools. Let your guide inspire you, and then let yourself wander from there!
Follow what interests you
Take some time to reflect on the things that interest and excite you when traveling, whether that’s tasting delicious street food, perusing museum exhibits, or meeting new people. It may require a bit of self-reflection, but identifying what will exhilarate you will make your wandering that much better. You'll encounter countless shops, restaurants, and people on our travels, but not everything sparks the same joy. Figure out where you most enjoy spending time, and go from there.
Research the atmosphere
Although you don't need to get into nitty-gritty specifics, it's a good idea to figure out what neighborhoods are known for, and if that aligns with your interests. This is where your travel guide will come in handy. The DK Eyewitness guides are broken down into areas and districts, while Top 10 guides delve deeply through detailed and vivid summaries.
Make connections
After researching what an area is known for, find patterns to guess what else you might find. In Japan, many visit Harajuku to buy the latest trends and show off their style. The notoriety of this fashion ward has created a space for self-expression, attracting artists who create beautiful murals. You could easily spend an afternoon wandering around this district, searching for backstreet wall art. Finding these connections is a great way to give your exploration a little more direction, to hone in on your niche interests.
And when you need a little guidance...start with a destination
Sometimes wandering is easier when you already know there’s someplace compelling nearby. Start with a bucket list item and roam from there. This will give your walk some structure, but not bog you down with a whole itinerary. Once you tick off your "must-see," you might stumble upon something marvelous.
Read next
Where to find the world’s best pizzas
The classic pizza is a staple when it comes to our fast-food fantasties, and has stood the test of time, with the first traces of the dish dating back to antiquity. But where are the world’s best pizzas today hiding for us to devour?
Two weeks in Italy: a grand tour
Italy offers the perfect blend of culture, civilization, and relaxation. Its rich history and culture give it so many must-sees, it can be hard to know where to start: Venice? Naples? Florence? Rome? The good news is you don’t have to choose; this two-week tour will help you get your travel planning under way...