If you see someone bypassing the Eiffel Tower to explore a local farmer’s market, you know they’re a different kind of traveler. If they prefer a hole-in-the-wall eatery over a five-star restaurant, you know they’re seeking authenticity.

Ah, the subtleties of travel behavior.

But, like the human mind, understanding these travelers isn’t always straightforward. It involves peeling back layers and digging deeper.

Fortunately, these unique explorers often display 8 specific traits that set them apart. It’s fascinating stuff, really.

Here goes my take on the traits of people who avoid touristy things when they travel.

1) They’re seekers of authenticity

Traveling isn’t just about ticking off famous landmarks for these individuals.

They’re after something more profound, more genuine. They crave the authentic, real-world experiences that only come from immersing themselves in the local culture.

It’s not that they wouldn’t appreciate the beauty of the Great Wall or the grandeur of the Colosseum. But given a choice between standing in a three-hour line for a tourist attraction and spending that time exploring local neighborhoods, they’d choose the latter.

Why? Because they know that authenticity lies in the ordinary, in the everyday life of the people.

And so, they ditch the well-trodden path to find their own way around a new city, often stumbling upon hidden gems that most tourists miss.

In their pursuit of authenticity, these travelers not only enrich their own experiences but also bring a fresh perspective to every place they visit.

2) They’re curious explorers

Now, this reminds me of my own travels.

When I was in Rome, I remember walking past the throngs of people waiting to enter the Colosseum. Instead, I found myself drawn towards a bustling local market tucked away in a narrow alley.

The curiosity that bubbled within me was too strong to resist. It was as if an unseen force was pulling me towards the vibrant stalls, the lively chatter, and the tantalizing smells.

In that market, I found more than fresh vegetables and authentic Italian cheese. I found stories – stories of the vendors, of the locals who shopped there, and of Rome itself.

And it’s not just me. Travelers who veer off the beaten path have this insatiable curiosity in common. They’re not satisfied with surface-level experiences; they dig deeper, ask questions, and seek out the extraordinary in the ordinary.

It’s an adventurous spirit that drives them to explore beyond what’s presented on a tourist brochure. And let me tell you from personal experience – it makes all the difference.

3) They’re appreciators of simplicity

In the age of Instagrammable travel, it’s easy to get caught up in the glamour of luxury resorts and picture-perfect destinations. But not for these folks.

They find beauty in simplicity.

A quaint little cafe tucked away in a quiet street, a serene walk along a riverbank, or even a peaceful afternoon spent at a local park – these experiences hold as much, if not more, value for them as any luxurious vacation.

This appreciation for simplicity often leads them to destinations that most overlook. For instance, did you know Bhutan, a small country nestled in the Himalayas, measures its success not by Gross Domestic Product but by Gross National Happiness?

It’s this kind of simplicity and focus on well-being that appeals to travelers who avoid the typical tourist traps. They understand that sometimes, less is indeed more.

4) They’re adaptable and flexible

Traveling off the beaten path often means dealing with unexpected situations.

A sudden change in weather, a local festival that has closed down the streets, or a hidden gem that’s harder to find than expected – these are all part and parcel of avoiding the touristy route.

However, these travelers thrive in such situations.

They are incredibly adaptable and flexible, willing to adjust their plans on the fly. They don’t panic when things don’t go exactly as planned. Instead, they see it as an opportunity for a new adventure.

Their adaptability doesn’t just make them great travelers; it also enhances their experiences. After all, some of the best travel stories come from unexpected adventures, right?

5) They’re eco-conscious

In my travels, I’ve realized one thing – the most beautiful places often bear the scars of unchecked tourism.

That’s why, like me, these travelers are eco-conscious. They understand the impact of their actions on the environment and make conscious decisions to minimize it.

Instead of taking a cab, they’ll walk or use public transport. They prefer local homestays to big hotels and carry reusable water bottles instead of buying plastic ones.

I’ve even seen some pick up litter as they explore – a small gesture with a big impact.

By choosing to travel this way, they’re not just experiencing new places but also helping preserve them for future generations. And I believe that’s a trait worth celebrating.

6) They’re comfortable with solitude

When we think of travel, we often picture shared experiences, be it with family, friends or even fellow tourists. But travelers who avoid the typical touristy route have a different approach.

They’re perfectly comfortable with solitude.

This doesn’t mean they’re loners or antisocial. Quite the opposite, actually. They enjoy meeting new people and forming connections. But they also value the time spent alone, exploring a new place at their own pace, soaking in the sights and sounds without distraction.

This comfort with solitude allows them to fully immerse themselves in the experience, offering a deeper understanding of their surroundings.

Surprisingly enough, it’s in these moments of solitude that they often end up forming the most meaningful connections – with the place and its people.

7) They’re patient listeners

Whether it’s asking for directions, learning about local customs, or simply striking up a conversation at a local café, these interactions are vital for an authentic travel experience.

And that’s where their skill as patient listeners comes in handy.

These travelers take the time to listen – truly listen – to the people they meet.

They show genuine interest in their stories, their culture, their way of life. They don’t just wait for their turn to speak; they absorb, understand and appreciate the wealth of knowledge being shared with them.

This patient listening not only enhances their travel experience but also fosters a sense of respect and understanding between them and the locals. It’s a trait that transforms an ordinary journey into an extraordinary one.

8) They’re lifelong learners

At the heart of it all, these travelers share a common trait – they’re lifelong learners.

Every journey they embark on, every path they tread, and every local they interact with is an opportunity for them to learn something new.

They don’t just travel to see new places. They travel to gain new perspectives, to challenge their beliefs, and to grow as individuals. They understand that every destination has something unique to teach them, and they’re eager students, ready to learn.

This thirst for knowledge and willingness to learn is perhaps the most defining trait of travelers who avoid touristy things. It’s what drives them to explore the unknown, and it’s what makes their travels truly enriching.

Embracing the journey

As we wrap up, it’s important to remember that travelers who avoid touristy things aren’t just avoiding crowds or queues. They’re seeking a deeper connection with the places they visit and the people they meet.

If there’s one thing to take away from all this, it’s that travel isn’t just about the destination. It’s about the journey, the experiences, and most importantly, the learning that comes with it.

The beauty of travel lies in its ability to open our minds and hearts, challenging us to see the world from a different perspective. And these travelers have grasped that essence.

Next time you plan a trip, consider taking a leaf out of their book. Seek authenticity, appreciate simplicity, adapt to changes, respect the environment and locals, embrace solitude, listen patiently and remain a lifelong learner.

You’ll not only discover new places but also rediscover yourself. And isn’t that what travel is all about?

It’s food for thought as we navigate our own journeys – both in travel and in life.