How to Live Like a Local as a Solo Female Traveler

Living like a local when you travel is one of the greatest experiences.

Instead of sticking to the tourist traps, living like a local allows you to discover hidden treasures - little hidden cafes, quiet beeches and underappreciated restaurants.

My guest today, Shila Desai, is a travel expert. She has a particular passion for helping people to live locals instead of acting like tourists. I hope that you enjoy our conversation!

Do you like to travel solo, with a partner or in a group? When you travel, do you enjoy visiting popular tourist spots? Or, do you prefer to "live like a local"? Please join the conversation.

[lifewithsandrahart]

My husband and I always live like the locals wherever we travel in the world. If you want a feel of the culture and how the residents live that is the only way to go. Exciting encounters that make travel memories are extremely rewarding. Nice video. Sandra

[kathleenkalt]

I often travelled with my husband on his business trips, but I would be alone all day while he worked. We once spent 6 weeks in Mexico City. I hired a local university student to help me with my Spanish. She figured out that I had a good grasp of the basics and so we spent our time exploring parts of the city together. It was terrific to have someone to see, everyday, who could help me navigate the bus system and explore local shops. Then, I knew what to do myself. Shila's tip to adhere to local dress standards is imperative, not only to live like a local, but to stay safe. When I went to India, I brought long sleeve shirts and pants, but, I also went to a local store and bought lovely punjabi suits. Now, as a blue-eyed blond, I was never going to fool anyone, but men weren't surrounding me in the streets to ogle my legs (my hair was another story).. We saw 2 young ladies in a pedi-cab, literally surrounded by men on motorbikes because these girls were wearing very short skirts. The girls were very un-nerved. Clearly, they hadn't prepped on the culture. And even though I didn't speak any of the Indian languages, women would come up to me smiling and pointing at my Indian clothing, very pleased that a foreigner would embrace their culture.

[lynnrose]

Your hair looks very pretty today Margaret. I love that you have been having guests on lately talking about different topics. Thank you. :)

[diana]

Last year, my 29 daughter went to Vietnam, Cambodia, and Thailand by herself. Scared me silly, but she made it there and back with no problems, and enjoyed her travels. I can break out into a cold sweat just traveling around Oklahoma by myself. lol

[michellekatz]

I'd enjoy hosting people - especially women age 60's ....nice way to meet new friends. We live in Israel ( from USA ) in a very sweet area near jerusalem. It happens that my neighbors built a small house next to mine and they rent it out on

[madhatter]

well I'm 59 and loving your "show"