How to Stay Grounded in the World’s Biggest Cities

Travelling to new cities gets our adrenalin running, with their array of unfamiliar sights, sounds, tastes, experiences, and opportunities constantly on offer. You get to come face-to-face with the iconic views and landmarks you’ve only previously seen on a screen or in a magazine. But visiting these metropolises can also be at times a bit overwhelming if you’re unfamiliar with the pulse, people and nuances of the place. You want to hit the ground running, but it’s important to ground and orient yourself to get the most out of your experience and enjoy all that these fascinating places have to offer.

One of the best ways to adjust to the hustle and bustle of a big new city is to spend time with a local guide like the experts you can find here on ToursByLocals. Exploring with a guide can be immensely helpful for orienting yourself and getting your bearings, making it easier for you to feel more comfortable and familiar with this new destination. You’ll be able to close Google Maps, put away your phone, and have a friendly face to ask questions as they share their knowledge of the city and your new surroundings.

A local guide can also provide recommendations for other experiences to have even outside your tour, such as activities and attractions you may not have discovered on your own. They can also suggest the best places to eat in the city, from street food stands and holes-in-the-wall to Michelin-starred restaurants, as well as neighbourhoods to check out outside the typical tourist areas. You'll feel more connected to the city and its people, making your stay more enjoyable and fulfilling.

How a local guide can help in the world’s biggest cities

Tokyo, Japan

With its bustling mix of modernity and tradition, Tokyo can be overwhelming for first-time visitors. A local guide can help you navigate the city’s transportation system and show you some of the best places to experience Japanese culture. In Tokyo, local guides are used to requests to come meet you at Narita Airport, and are happy to be a friendly face upon arrival.

Sao Paulo, Brazil

As Brazil and South America’s largest city, Sao Paulo can be chaotic and more than a little confusing to a newcomer. There is much to be explored, from museums to galleries to parks. Find your way around with a local guide and explore the city’s vibrant art and food scene, or venture out in the evening to explore some fantastic Brazilian nightlife.

Mexico City, Mexico

With its teeming streets, rich culture and fast pace, Mexico City may strike you as a bit daunting when you first arrive. Strolling the streets with a local can help you stay on track as you navigate your way through the city’s amazing street food, art scene and historic sites.

New York City, USA

America’s largest city is bursting with things to do, and the skyscrapers and energy may leave you feeling dizzy. Familiarizing yourself with the subway can get you far and wide, and stepping out to the less touristy areas like Brookyln, the West Village and Lower East Side may provide a sense of calming when the noise of Midtown gets to be a bit much.

Hong Kong

Hong Kong’s mix of old and new, east and west, can be fascinating and definitely a lot to take in for a newcomer. Ground yourself by walking along the promenade to soak in the stunning views of Victoria Harbour, tasting all the dim sum you can, and with your guide, explore the greener areas like Lantau Island or Tai O.

Delhi, India

Delhi is a sprawling and chaotic city with a rich history and culture, and it will definitely be an assault on North American senses if you’re a first time visitor! Visiting the capital’s historical and religious sites with a local guide will help you understand your surroundings, and you can enjoy sightseeing its impressive monuments and temples, along with bazaars like Chandni Chowk.

London, UK

The population size of London and New York are similar, but London takes up twice the space! It’s a great big cosmopolitan city with many sights you’ve been dreaming of — check off your bucket list with visits to Big Ben, Buckingham Palace, Trafalgar Square, and the less central gems like Columbia Road Flower Market, Hampstead Heath, and Brick Lane. Get the lay of the land by cruising around on the top floor of an iconic red double-decker bus, or in a classic London black cab with your own private driver guide.

With these tips in mind and the help of your local guide, you're sure to have an incredible experience while exploring these big cities and come home with photos, memories, and a high step count! Final tip: Filter by the “First Time Visitor” category for a range of tour options perfect for newbies in every city.