Hi,
I was thinking, is it a wise idea to travel to a city with some background knowledge, but not hire a local tour guide and wander by ourselves around the city to explore with a small group of people (3-5)?
Because being 'lost in translation' may allow the travellers a complete immersion into the culture and experience maximum absorption of 'culture shock'? Or is this totally not advisable, even if the city is relatively safe?
(Serious question. If you think I'm retarded asking this, then don't reply.)
Thanks.
2006-09-26 05:26:48 · 4 answers · asked by vintageprincess72 4 in Travel ➔ Travel (General) ➔ Health & Safety
ABSOLUTELY!
I've done that with no ill effects!
I travelled solo around Vietnam, Malaysia, Thailand and Indonesia without a local tour guide & without any other people either!
It's a wonderful experience. I would advise you to buy a Lonely Planet Guide or a Rough Guide in advance for maps, details of accomodation and restaurants and highlights of what there is to do in your chosen city.
Always use common sense, don't wander around with your worldly goods on display (eg. expensive camera around neck). Keep money split and stored in different places and photocopy your id. Common sense goes a long way - but exploring 'lost in translation' is a wonderful thing to do. Enjoy your trip!!
2006-09-29 00:21:00 · answer #1 · answered by Nicola L 3 · 1⤊ 0⤋
YES! why would you travel any other way? you are completely safe with 3-5 people. get a travel guide, a map, and a general idea of what you want to see and then explore.......................! A tour guide will show you the sights but if you want to see how people live, work and have fun, go out on your own. follow the twisty streets and see things and meet people that you will remember forever.the best experiences are the surprises. If you wanted a tour, you could rent a movie. If you go through all the effort of getting there, don't waste it on a tour. The best thing you will ever do is get lost. THATS the story you will tell your kids.
2006-09-26 10:28:48 · answer #2 · answered by xenosgrrl 1 · 2⤊ 0⤋
I think it could be fun, but will you know how to handle situations quickly if something happens. If you think you could react quickly then sure why not. I would say it somewhat depends on where your going too. Also can you speak the language? I know sometimes people would help with where you need to go, but sometimes you may not find someone who can speak the language. If I ever did something like this I may not do it on my first run unless of course I've been there. I would however for some of the time would like a tour guide because they would know the spots to go, etc.
2006-09-26 05:49:45 · answer #3 · answered by alyssa_the_great21 3 · 1⤊ 0⤋
I think it is a totally good idea, just always know where you are, how you can get to your hotel/hostel quickly if need be, have some self protection items on your person, (pepper spray or a whistle at least) and just be careful.
2006-09-26 05:38:57 · answer #4 · answered by Shi. 3 · 1⤊ 0⤋