10 'MUST DOs' IN ANY NEW CITY

Jessica Festa - a blogger published in the Huffington Post - believes that there are 10 generic things you should do in any new city - no matter what continent it may call home.


'While every city has its own unique landmarks, culture, and sights to see,' Festa fesses, 'there are certain general things you can do in any city you visit to make your experience more memorable.'


And while she may be 99.99% right, there are some places where she might have to rethink.


#1. Sample the local cuisine. 


'One way to really get to know a culture is through the food.'

Ok this works well for a cheesesteak in Philly, Paris street crepes or even munching on Southern California 'Good Vibrations', but there are quite a few out there who would prefer swallowing a hemlock sandwich before they would even consider wrapping their lips around a Colorado Prairie Oyster.

#2. Sip the country's signature drink.


'Many times the local libation will not only give you a good buzz, but will also give you insight into the culture and region.'


Well, you'll definitely acquire 'unique insights' in Bolivia where their 'Chicha' drink is made from moistening corn with human saliva.


And a few more in Germany where the popular - made in Italy - drink 'Cynar' is said to taste like licorice flavored Listerine.


Yum.


#3. Visit a local museum.


'What better way to get background information and get to know the roots of a place than through its artifacts, history, art, architecture, and old photographs?'


Here she's 100% on the mark.


After all what says New York City better than:





#4.  See local craftsman at work.


'I try to do this as much as possible when traveling, as you'll often meet people who are happy to share personal stories on their work and how it relates to their culture.'

Ok, this might hinge on what part of town they have their 'studio' & what their 'artistic specialty' may be.


#5. Ride the local public transport system.


'Not only will opting for public transportation over taxis and car rentals save you money, you'll get to experience how a normal person in the city lives and potentially even get to interact with a local.'


Hmmmmm:





#6. Learn some basic phrases in the local language.


'I don't think there's any greater accomplishment when traveling then actually being able to have a conversation with a local in their language.'


Not to pick on the Big Apple, but it's the easiest place to master this skill (& - of course - in some northern NJ burgs, too). 


Simply add an 'F bomb' to the beginning or ending of any sentence & you're golden.


And using a middle finger as punctuation makes you an instant native. 


#7. Have an experience in nature


' Not only is it a budget-friendly way to enjoy a region; it's also healthy to spend time outdoors and you'll get some great photo opportunities.'


Again she's 100% right:

                                    

I'm sure this tourist will never forget his India photo op.

#8. Befriend a local

'Hanging out with a local is a great way to find out the "personal" side of a cultural and can also give you access to experiences you may not have otherwise had.'

See #4.

#9. Browse a local market

'Opt for the outdoor markets. These colorful, aesthetically-pleasing places are usually bursting with energy, delicious food, and quality merchandise.'

And this could be the start of a new lifetime diet regime.  


After enjoying a few minutes of these pungent smells, sounds & views, you may never want to eat again.

#10. Watch a cultural tradition or ceremony


'The traditions and ceremonies a culture partakes in tell a lot about their values and beliefs, and because they vary so much from region to region, make for a really memorable experience.'

Here's one that will really widen your cultural understanding - not to mention your eyes:

Attending a nice, traditional Bris ceremony. 


And - as an extra added attraction - this will jump start a lifetime of very interesting flashbacks every time you're offered 'cocktail weiners' at parties.