First get oriented. Then wander.

What’s the best way to explore a new city?

People often say that the best way to explore a new city is simply to wander. I admire people who can do that. I’m not really one of them.

When I arrive somewhere new, I like to get a cognitive map in my head. I want to know roughly where the centre is, how the neighbourhoods fit together, what matters, and how the place works. That is why I like a walking tour or a half-day tour when I first arrive. I am happy to do the walking. In fact, I want to be out in the streets. I just like someone who knows the city to help me put the bones in place.

Many years ago I lived in North Carolina for a semester. One Saturday I headed downtown simply to get a feel for the city. I walked for a while and then, quite suddenly, realised I had wandered into an area where I did not belong. It was broad daylight. Nothing actually happened. But I sensed it quickly enough and turned around. I remember thinking that there had to be a better way to understand a new city than simply wandering until I worked it out. Cities take time to read.

So I prefer someone local, or someone who knows the place well, to give me an introduction. Not because I want every hour planned, but because I enjoy exploring much more once I understand the basic shape of the place.

That is the paradox. Spontaneity works better after you have a framework. Once I know roughly where I am, I am much happier to take the side street, stop at the café that looks interesting, wander through a market, or change direction because something catches my attention. Structure does not take away the surprise. It makes the surprise easier to enjoy.

These days I like a simple rule: One planned thing, one accidental thing. Choose one thing you definitely want to see, then leave enough room for something you did not expect. The planned thing gives the day a shape. The accidental thing often gives you the story you remember.

So perhaps the best way to explore a new city is not to begin by getting lost. First get oriented. Then wander.

What’s the best way to explore a new city?

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