Getting involved in volunteer organizations offers a great opportunity to deepen your experience and helps you get beneath the surface of a culture. If you have the time, take a language course. Get to know a good travel agent. You will never regret it, no matter how adept you become at your own trip planning. Eat out at a local restaurant that serves authentic food from the country you plan to visit.
Chances are that the owners or staff are expatriates, and can provide valuable information.
Plan your trip around a special interest such as art, history, gardening, cooking classes, biking, sailing, etc. Local organizations may be able to provide helpful information about these activities at your destination. Tales Inc. All Rights Reserved. All trademarks and registered trademarks appearing on the Travelers' Tales Web site are the property of their respective owners.