Whether it’s a weekend break, a six-month internship, or a complete relocation, arriving in a new city is always equal parts excitement and stress. If you’re the type that prefers an in-depth itinerary, or you prefer to play everything by ear, there are some great tips available for those that want to feel more at home in a new city as soon as possible. Even if you’re only there temporarily, doing the right activities will always mean that you have a better time. If you’re heading into a new city and you’re concerned about some of the basics, or you’ve just arrived, and you’re too scared to leave the hotel room, here are some tips about what you could be doing to have a much better appreciation of your chosen metropolis.

Food & Drink

One of the first things that you should ever do when you land in a new place is to get your belly full of local food. There’s nothing quite like the cultural splash of new flavors and delicacies. Do a little online research before you arrive, and find the places to eat that the locals use. Don’t be tempted by fast-food chains that you could be having anywhere. Find the little-known restaurants or even street vendors! Check social media reviews and city group pages for the best tips to get the best food and drink in the city. If you want to get the real taste of a city, then you’ll never go wrong with getting a plate full of local food and a bottle or two of the best local beers or wines.

Entertainment

Every city is going to have its attractions, so you’re going to be spoiled for choice when it comes to finding activities. Obviously, you’re going to tailor the sights that you see to your interests, but don’t forget that there are some traditions that change. Going to a locally popular show is always going to be fun, and you’ll feel part of the community as well. Have a look at the biggest and best musicals that are playing, and get your tickets in advance from Ticket Sales so that you can avoid queues and scalpers. Going to a show is always a great way to feel more like you belong in a city, and it’s a great way to spend an evening at any time of the year.

Go For a Walk

Of course, you could just jump into an Uber in order to get around, but you should also take the time to have a stroll too. A city is a very different place when you’re on foot, and you’ll have the time and the space to really absorb your surroundings. The temptation when you arrive in a new city is often to see as much as possible as quickly as possible but try and resist that temptation. Get some comfortable shoes on, load up Google Maps, and head outside. You never know what you’ll see, and the lack of controlled environments brings a freshness to your city experience that you’ll never get if you stick to the air-con buildings and taxis.

A new city can be intimidating, exciting, and occasionally stressful. Take your time and plan as much as possible before you arrive. Don’t be afraid to try the new, and you could be planning a return trip before you know it.