6 Apps & Sites To Help You Explore Any City

Each of us has our own travel personality. Some like to be pampered, while others are all about a good adventure. Some seek out five star hotels, and others prefer hostels. Whether your ideal vacation includes sugary cocktails and spa treatments or day-long hikes through lush landscapes, there's one thing you probably like to avoid: feeling like a tourist.

What's the real difference between being a traveler and being a tourist? It may not be so obvious. Often, we fall into the habit of "seeing what we're supposed to see": monuments, landmarks, the most famous restaurants and bars. But, perhaps the best way to experience a city is to skip the guidebook and the Yelp reviews in favor of getting off the beaten path — to eat and drink as a local does; to surf, dance, or even hit the beach as a local would.

So, tell your travel bud with the binder full of research to take a seat — these websites and apps (which are all free to download for iOS and Android) will help you find unforgettable, unique, and authentic experiences all over the world.