School may soon be staring up again, but that doesn’t mean that summer is over just yet. I am determined to make it more interesting by exploring my city like a tourist, and soaking in every last bit of fun, before classes begin. Inspired by my time traveling abroad last year, I want to adopt the adventurous and open-minded perspective of a tourist.
This goal can be accomplished by recreating the various activities that I once did abroad, such as seeking out local festivals and pop-up events, right here at home. With this guide, I hope it motivates you to step outside your comfort zone and rediscover the beauty of your own city this season.
start with Research
Just like before a vacation, it is important to explore the YouTube videos, local influencers and city guides that can share the best plans for your town. I also save numerous cultural sites and restaurants on Google Maps to prepare for a trip. Ultimately, the touristy plans will not appear without any prior effort, just like on a regular vacation. I recommend making it more fun by creating a bucket list or Pinterest board with all of your ideas, and checking them off as the summer unfolds.
Festivals Are Key
Summer is when the festival season truly comes alive, offering a myriad of event options to discover. Yet, it’s surprisingly easy to overlook what’s happening in your own city. From lively food festivals like Poutine Fest to vibrant music festivals like Bluesfest, there is something for everyone to enjoy.
Many of these events are even free, such as the outdoor Tulip Festival throughout the city. Regardless of which festival themes you enjoy most, I encourage you to research what is happening in your city and make time to attend at least one event this summer.
Explore New Neighbourhoods
Those days with over 30,000 steps on a trip are usually the ones where you explored multiple areas of a city. To recreate that same sense of adventure at home, you can venture outside of your neighbourhood for a day. Whether that involves exploring a hiking trail, beach or coffee shop on the other side of town, it can help you see your hometown with an entirely new perspective.
Take Lots of Pictures
No day of being a tourist is complete without 1,000 new photos of the same street in your camera roll. You can emulate that same sense of wonder by capturing your own city this summer. A great way to do this idea is by going on a colour walk.
Essentially, you choose a specific colour and take pictures with anything that matches the colour along the way. This activity turns an ordinary walk into a creative challenge, and at the end of the day you have a beautiful collage from your adventures.
Overall, being a tourist in your own city is all about being open to new experiences. From festivals to restaurants to spontaneous adventures, your city has so much to offer. While you may have to complete some prior research, it can also completely elevate your summer experience.