As a student studying abroad in a foreign city, you obviously would like to see all the tourist hot spots. You definitely want to learn and see all the things that attracted you to pick that city. But where there are tourist attractions, there are lots of tourists. Often doing things and activities that the locals do gives you the student more insight into the people and culture of the city in which you are temporarily a member. The following are easy (and cheap!) ways to immerse yourself into the city you are learning in.
1. Get a newspaper. Now this could be tricky if you are in a city where English is not the spoken language. If it is though, like London or Auckland, flip through and read the local section of the paper. Just like papers that circulate here, there are sections dedicated to telling the reader what entertainment is happening for the week i.e. shows, local bands playing in parks, flea markets, etc. Many of these things are free or relatively cheap. They also are usually packed with locals and not tourists because these happenings are not typically published in “What-to-see-and-do” guides aimed for tourists. Now again, this is a very useful tool if the paper is in English. If the paper is not though, use it to help with your learning of the language. As a study abroad student, it is likely you have taken and are taking a language class. The newspaper is an excellent source to help improve your language skills.
2. Ride public transit. Taxis are not only expensive, but they offer little interaction. Hop on a bus and just ride its route. You can not only people watch and observe, but you also can see a lot of the city that you might not have seen otherwise. Buses in some cities like Port Louis, Mauritius or other tropical countries will not be luxurious by any means and often buses will be crowded, but it is all about feeling like a local. Public transit may vary from city to city: subways, rickshaws, buses. Try them all.
3. Shop at flea markets. In flea markets, many handmade and home grown products can be found. Locals are selling goods as well as buying. In places like Chennai, India or Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, haggle and bargain for an item like the locals. They never pay full price for anything. You can get many unique pieces at these markets and for very cheap.
4. Eat food from a street vendor. Food from street vendors may sound questionable, but it is often quite delicious. It is especially convenient for on-the-go. For example, in London, grab a sausage, a blanket you may have picked up at a flea market, and a book about the city, and head to a park. It makes for a great afternoon and a delightful, inexpensive lunch. In some countries, it is advisable to be cautious about food you get from vendor, so do use your own judgment.
5. Walk and wander. Though riding public transit is part of the experience, walking is an adventure all in itself. You will come across a variety of shops, eateries, clubs, etc. You will find things you did not know existed. As well as discovering hidden treasures, exploration will help you better acquaint yourself to the city. In no time, you will be able to easily find your way around town and may even be comfortable enough to give directions to others. Then you will really feel like a local and less like a tourist or visitor.
These are just five simple actions you as a student can do to “fit-in” and learn about everyday life for locals in the city you are studying abroad in. These are cheap and easily accommodating ways to feel like a local on a student budget. When not popping around the city with a camera, take a break and do as the locals do.
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