Why Millennial Travellers Want More Authentic Experiences

Travelling is one of the most rewarding experiences a person can have.

It broadens your horizons, and learn about different cultures.

Authentic travel is on the rise among all age groups thanks to Millennials.

What is authentic travelling, anyway?

There is a distinct difference between visiting a country and truly experiencing its culture.

Travellers increasingly want to experience a unique, authentic, local, and immersive culture. Exchanging foreign currency online or at the shop is essential when you travel to developing countries. We would recommend smoney.com.au if you’re based in Australia, as they offer the very best exchange rates with no hassle.

Authentic travelling means experiencing a place like a local, which means it’s better to travel slowly, avoiding tourist traps, and seeking out activities and attractions more representative of the local culture.

Slow travel is the hallmark of authenticity.

Why is authentic travelling so important to Millennials?

Millennials value unforgettable memories and experiences more than material goods.

Experiences create interesting stories and lead to amazing adventures.

It’s all about living in the moment, learning and feeling connected to other humans.

How to plan an authentic trip?

For Millennial travellers looking for an authentic experience, here is a guide to get started:

Thorough trip planning

One of the first things you should do when planning a trip is to read about your destination. Browse travel blogs, looking up information on forums, or borrow a guidebook from your local library.

This is a great way to immerse yourself in local culture and history.

 Some research should also help you to avoid tourist traps and find unique, authentic experiences specific to their destination.

For example, suppose you want to visit Rome and experience its vibrant culture. You could look up information on local markets and festivals or find a restaurant known for its traditional Italian dishes.

When planning your trip, don’t underestimate the need for rest. You need some time to do nothing to absorb everything properly.

Schedule in some relaxation and recharge time after long days of exploring.

Get tickets for sightseeings early

This can often mean booking flights and hotels a few months in advance or securing reservations at popular restaurants or attractions that may fill up quickly.

It will ensure you have the best access to all the top activities and sights in your destination without worrying about missing out.

A full-day tour of Stonehenge from London is the perfect way to see one of the world’s most iconic landmarks. And, by booking your ticket in advance, you can avoid the long lines and crowds that often form at the site.

Plus, many tours also include entrance fees and other extras, such as audio guides, making them great value. When choosing a tour, read the reviews to understand what other travellers thought of the experience.

Connect with locals

This is something that Millennials do more than any other generation.

We have friends all over the world, so when we travel somewhere, there’s always someone we can meet (or who can connect us) and hang out with.

Thanks to social media like Facebook Groups, it has become easier to connect with locals, who are happy to show you around or give recommendations about the best places to visit, the best local restaurants, etc.

This is a great way to experience an authentic aspect of the destination that you might not otherwise see and to get insider tips on all the hidden gems and must-do activities in your area.

Explore off-the-beaten-path

Millennials enjoy exploring the place independently.

This might mean seeking out hidden gems in your destination that aren’t frequented by tourists, like a secluded beach or an abandoned building that you can explore for yourself. You could also seek out activities or attractions that are less well-known, such as a scenic hike or an art gallery in the city.

Whatever your interests may be, there is sure to be an authentic experience waiting for you if you do some research and look beyond the usual tourist spots.

Going out of your comfort zone to explore something new is an excellent way for Millennials to travel and gain a better understanding and appreciation of different cultures.

Be open-minded and try new things

It’s tempting to stick to your plan, especially if you’re travelling to a location you’ve already researched on the internet or have an idea of what your activities will look like.

However, being open-minded and willing to try new things during your trip is essential.

It may mean visiting a museum, even though you’re not particularly interested in museums, or trying out a new restaurant that is highly recommended. It will allow you to experience the destination in new and unexpected ways and open up your mind to the culture and customs of the area.

Finally,

Gone are the days of all-inclusive vacations where you never leave the resort. Millennials are seeking off-the-beaten path adventures that are authentic and unforgettable.

Whether connecting with locals or exploring new destinations on your own, there are plenty of opportunities to immerse yourself in an authentic travel experience.