Introduction
The world is full of amazing things to see and do. But some of these places are just not as accessible as others. Luckily for us, there’s a solution! Landmarks around the globe have started offering free audio guides and other information on their websites that make it easier than ever to enjoy them without breaking the bank. Still not convinced? Here are some tips for making your next landmark visit more than just a momentary stop on your journey through life:
1. Download the free audio guide apps
- Download the free audio guide apps
If you’re going to be visiting a landmark, make sure that you download the free audio guide apps for it in advance. These are available for most landmarks and will give you an in-depth look at the history of your destination as well as tips on where to go and what to see while there. They can also be downloaded onto your phone or tablet so that they’re ready when it’s time for your trip!
2. Get there early to avoid crowds
- Get there early to avoid crowds
The worst part of visiting a landmark is the crowd. It’s inevitable that you’ll be surrounded by people who are there for the same reason you are, but if you go early enough in the day, it will be much easier for you to find your own space and enjoy the experience without feeling like every other person around is in your way.
Who cares if they’re not? You do! When we travel and see famous sights, we want our pictures of those places to look good–and that often means getting as far away from other tourists as possible (or at least getting them out of frame). Although many landmarks have security guards stationed around their entrances during opening hours so that no one gets trampled underfoot or injured by falling off ledges into pools filled with sharks (true story), these guards aren’t always effective at keeping crowds under control.
3. Pack a snack if you’re walking around a lot
If you’re planning on doing a lot of walking, it’s a good idea to pack a snack. If you’re going to be walking around all day, try packing something light like fruit and nuts. If you’re going to be sitting in one place for a while (like at the top of your chosen landmark), then pack something more substantial like a sandwich or wrap.
4. Check out the site’s history
When you visit a landmark, it’s easy to get caught up in the excitement of seeing it for yourself. But sometimes it’s good to take a step back and consider the history of that place. You may think you know what happened there, but sometimes there are surprises waiting for us when we dig deeper into our favorite landmarks’ pasts. The following tips will help you uncover some of these hidden treasures:
- Check out local museums or libraries: Many cities have museums or libraries dedicated specifically to local history (a good example is New York City’s Museum at FIT). These institutions usually have extensive archives containing photos and documents related to your favorite landmark site–and they’re often free!
- Visit old newspapers: If there hasn’t been any recent construction nearby yet (or if all construction has been completed), try looking through old newspaper articles about what used to stand where your new building now stands today–what do they say? Were they excited about its opening? Did anyone complain about traffic congestion caused by construction vehicles on surrounding streets? How did locals feel about being displaced because their homes were demolished during development projects?
5. Take advantage of any deals they may have going on (e.g., student or senior discounts)
You should take advantage of any deals they may have going on (e.g., student or senior discounts). Look for these deals online and on social media. If there’s one thing we’ve learned from our time as tourists, it’s that there are always deals to be found! You can also ask the folks at your local landmark if they offer any local discounts or promotions you might not know about.
6. Be willing to venture off the beaten path
While the beaten path is often a good place to start, there’s nothing wrong with venturing off it. While you may have less crowds and less things to see on the beaten path, it can also be harder to find and more crowded than what lies beyond. But if you’re willing to take a chance on exploring new territory then you’ll be rewarded with some amazing sights that are completely unique!
7. Do some research beforehand so you know what you’re looking at, when it was built and why it’s important
Make sure you know the history of your landmarks. Knowing when they were built, who built them and why will help you understand their significance.
Knowing the historical context of a landmark is important because it helps you appreciate its beauty on a deeper level. You’ll be able to see how each part of the building was crafted with purpose, which makes for an experience that’s much more meaningful than just looking at pretty architecture from afar.
It’s not just about knowing facts though–it’s also about understanding how this particular place affects you personally (or has affected others). For example: if someone has told me that they went to church there as a child and had fond memories of attending mass there every Sunday morning before heading off to play baseball in nearby fields after service ended; then suddenly one day there was no longer any trace left behind by which someone could find out what happened during those days when everything seemed so peaceful…I would probably feel very upset about losing something so precious because I’ve experienced similar losses myself before!
8. Don’t be afraid to ask questions (especially if you’re traveling with kids). Although the staff may not be able to tell you everything about a building or statue, they’ll probably know more than you think!
- Don’t be afraid to ask questions (especially if you’re traveling with kids). Although the staff may not be able to tell you everything about a building or statue, they’ll probably know more than you think!
If there’s something specific that interests your child, such as an animal depicted in stone on the facade of an old building, let them lead the way in asking questions about it. This will help them feel like they’ve accomplished something on their own and given them greater ownership over their experience at landmarks.
9. Take photos from multiple angles as opposed to just one because every angle will showcase something different about your experience there.
- Take photos from multiple angles as opposed to just one because every angle will showcase something different about your experience there.
You can get a different perspective by taking photos from different angles, but don’t forget that you can also get a different perspective by taking photos at different times of day or in seasons and weather conditions that are unique to your landmark visit.
Conclusion
So, there you have it: my top tips for getting the most out of your landmark visits. Hopefully, this article has inspired you to explore more of our world’s history and culture by visiting some of these amazing places. If so–or if not–I just want to say thank you for reading!
