Landing in a new city can be both exciting and overwhelming. With so much to figure out and potential for things to go wrong, the first day can set the tone for your entire visit. Personally, the most anxious moment for me is right after I pick up my luggage from the baggage carousel. From that point on, I’m on my own. Here are six things I always do when I arrive somewhere new to start my trip on the right foot.
Exchange Money
If I’m traveling abroad, the first thing I do before leaving the airport is find an ATM to withdraw some local currency. Having a few local notes in my wallet makes me feel secure. Although I use my credit card for most purchases, there are always times when cash is necessary.
Get a Local SIM Card
If I haven’t set up a roaming plan before my trip, I pick up a SIM card at the airport. It’s not about staying connected to social media; it’s about having data for essential things like maps and directions. Google Maps gives me peace of mind. If a SIM card isn’t available at the airport, getting one is my top priority after reaching my accommodations.
Get a Local Transit Card
I always research local transportation options before my trip. Knowing how to get around a new city eases my anxiety. This usually means getting a public transit card. Whether it’s a pre-paid Oyster card in London, a 7-day unlimited MetroPass in New York, or a carnet of 10 tickets for the Paris Metro, having a transit card ready makes navigating the city much easier.
Find a Place to Eat…and Coffee
I’ve made the mistake of not researching food options in advance, ending up with sub-par meals just because I was hungry. Think McDonald’s in Tokyo or TGI Fridays in Manhattan. Food is a highlight of my trips, so I hate wasting a meal on something mediocre.
Finding a good coffee spot is also crucial. I love starting my day with a hot cup of coffee, preferably from a cute local shop. Scoping one out in advance saves time in the morning when I’m still half-asleep and in dire need of caffeine.
Look for Free Walking Tours
I discovered free walking tours in Europe a few years ago, and they’re fantastic. A quick Google search can uncover these tours in many cities. They usually last an hour or two and help you get your bearings while learning about the city. While the tours are free, tipping the guide is encouraged as it’s their primary source of income.
Another great option is a hop-on/hop-off bus tour. This can be an all-day affair but provides a good overview of the city. In Vancouver, my mother and I rode the entire loop first to get a feel for the city, then decided where to hop off and explore more on the second loop.
Plan One Thing to Do the Next Day
Before going to bed each night, I like to have a rough idea of what I’ll do the next day. I don’t need a full itinerary, but having at least one concrete plan helps me make the most of my time. Even something as simple as wandering around a neighborhood with my camera can make me feel more organized and less anxious about wasting time.
