Why I skip all paid tours when I travel

I know most people love guided tours, but I think they're a huge money drain. On my last trip to Thailand, I didn't book a single tour. Instead, I just explored on my own. I discovered amazing street food for like $1 a meal, and locals pointed me to free cultural spots. I cut my spending by over $200 compared to my travel buddy who did tours. Plus, I felt more connected to the place. Imo, skipping tours lets you have a realer experience on a tight budget. What's your take on this?

3 comments

3 Comments

jackson.jenny1mo ago

Ever tried that in a place where you don't speak the language?

elizabeth4381mo ago

That in a place where you don't speak the language goes great, @jackson.jenny, until you need a bathroom.

loganw8526d ago

Remember getting lost in a Tokyo train station once, desperately needing a bathroom. Ended up doing this weird charades thing that probably looked like I was trying to mime an alien. It worked, but the cleaner looked at me like I was insane. That's the real travel experience @jackson.jenny, the universal language of panic. Makes you realize how much we rely on just pointing and hoping for the best.