Sometimes, we may take our hometown for granted. The familiar roads to our favorite stores, the old billboards that have been up for ages, or the orange trees that produce ripe fruits year after year have become backdrops to our everyday routine. In your hometown, time stands still for a bit.

The idea of playing “tourist” may draw up images of jetting off to far distances to see iconic landmarks, visiting Michelin restaurants, or sunbathing in a tropical paradise – the places you have yet to see. There’s nothing wrong with yearning to embark on distant adventures and far-off lands, but there’s a unique joy in uncovering the hidden gems and untold stories of the place we call home. Consider it as a way to see your hometown with fresh eyes.

While life may have led us to establish a home elsewhere, there’s something magical about returning to your old stomping grounds.

Here are several ways to explore home.

Explore on Foot

When exploring on foot, you get up close and personal. Whether strolling to the nearest park or walking along the shore by the beach, getting around on foot allows you to appreciate nature and take time away from technology. A part of traveling is admiring the gorgeous landscapes surrounding us no matter where you are.

Create an Itinerary

Creating an itinerary allows us to be more intentional about the activities we choose for the day. We all have our go-to spots and must-visit shops when visiting home and may be guilty of trying to cram a hundred things in a few days. By creating an itinerary, you can hone in on the experiences you truly value rather than running on a routine. This allows us to be more present in the activities we choose to do and the people we see.

Plan Your Routes Purely on Recommendations

Sure, you may have your favorite go-to diners and dives, but what if you plan your day based on the recommendations of others? We’re not talking about family members or friends, but from strangers you come across. Ask your barista what their favorite lunch spot is or a shop owner what place they recommend for some quiet reading. This is a great way to come across hidden gems.

Use Public Transportation

Don’t underestimate public transportation. Taking the bus or train can offer a different view of your town or city, and you may be surprised by the subtle details you may have missed if you were behind the wheel. New restaurants or boutiques might have popped up since your last visit home, offering delightful meals or souvenirs to buy.

Attend a Local Class or Workshop

Take a painting class or a creative writing workshop. If you’ve been away from home, this gives you a chance to reconnect with new faces in your community and do something creative and active. While some people may argue that they lack creativity, the truth is that there’s a creative muscle in all of us that just might need a little exercise here or there.

Being a Pacific Islander, I enjoy taking workshops that deepen my connection with my culture and island home. Taking weaving classes or surfing lessons not only allows me to reconnect with nature but lets me share that knowledge with others.

People Watch

Believe it or not, people watching relieves stress and helps us slow down. In our day-to-day rush, we may never even think about people watching. This is the perfect activity to do when you’re revisiting your hometown. Not only do you learn about human behaviors and interactions, but you may even catch the small acts of kindness being exchanged between two people.

Let us know how you play tourist in your hometown.