Get lost
- Kandace
- Dec 7, 2018
- 1 min read
Updated: Aug 14, 2019
You are going to get lost.
It's all right.
Every single time I've traveled someplace, I've gotten lost. It's inevitable. Sometimes it's only for a little while and sometimes it's for a couple hours. And as long as you're sensible, it's just fine. You'll have the most wonderful experiences, discovering local shops that aren't in any guide book and stumbling into charming little scenes not visible from the main sights (sites).
Navigating on your own is a terrific way to know a community; it separates tourists from travelers.
Obviously, you do want to be sure you don't end up in an unsafe situation, so be aware of your surroundings. I have never felt unsafe while I traveled, though; statistically I'm in far greater danger in the U.S. I've been in major European cities late at night and never had a moment's concern. The situation in Washington, D.C., Chicago, Illinois, or New York City would be a different story.
It's helpful if you have a sense of direction (hint: the sun rises in the east and sets in the west). Otherwise, use the compass, GPS or the maps function on your smartphone. Locals are also usually very willing to help wayward travelers.
So go ahead -- get lost, and have a great time doing it.
Thanks, Eric! I appreciate the feedback - will edit my “Australia/Antarctica” post and check into GPS on smartphones (I’ve always used Google Maps which I thought needed WiFi or data?).
Best post yet ;-). Getting lost is part of the adventure, it's like the icing on the cake. And, even in Australia the sun rises in the east and sets in the west. By the way, I think most phones nowadays have a GPS built in that doesn't rely on wireless service. It may be worthwhile to look for an app that can use that GPS, doesn't use a lot of battery, and that you can pre-load with relevant maps. Not something I have done (we prefer old-fashioned paper maps) but it should be possible. May be worthwhile checking out.