Ask yourself, do you know your city? Obviously, you know the things you need to know such as, where the market is or the cheapest place to get gas, places to worship, where to vote, etc. But knowing the elements of day to day life of your city isn’t the same as knowing your city. No, to truly know one’s city means having an understanding and knowledge of the city’s history; its secrets and its mysteries.

How much do you appreciate your city?

Once a person truly learns all things about their city, they will have a greater appreciation for where they live. And what’s the best way to learn about your city? Obviously, you just need to take a city tour. Before you balk at the suggestion, understand that it is not embarrassing to explore your own city; they are not only for tourists.

A travel plan in your city lasting a couple hours may reveal more of the unknown, hidden sides of your city that you didn’t realize existed. This is especially true if you live in an ancient city where many of the more interesting features have long been built over and forgotten. Not to mention that people are discovering forgotten parts of most cities every day, like the underground city found beneath a Byzantine era fortress in Nevsehir, Turkey.

Even if your city isn’t an ancient city, present day cities have become so massive that it is virtually impossible to explore them in their entirety. That is why becoming a tourist in your city is so amazing; it is a curated experience designed to be informative and entertaining at the same time.

Once you really get into exploring your city, you’ll discover that there are a number of places and food joints you’ve heard about but never experienced. No matter which city you visit or live in, there is something interesting to know about it. Knowledge of your city’s past will make you feel closer to it and help you understand that you are slowly shaping the culture and history of the city yourself.

So, what are you waiting for, get a light meal packed in an insulated lunchbox, don’t pack too much as you would want to try the food joints as well! Make sure you carry a drynk of your choice or cold water in an insulated water bottle, and get ready to explore and appreciate your city more!