I walked out the hotel lobby doors and started my rental car to warm up from the below freezing weather, tuned the radio to a local station, programmed Stella (my GPS and BFF) to that local café I just found online, and hit the road.

 

I was in Banff, Alberta for Brad+Amanda’s engagement session. These two are getting married in BC, but they live in AB so travelling to do their engagement session was a great reason to experience somewhere new.

You see, I love travel. But not just any kind of travel. I believe in experiencing every place as a local.

…

I skip the tourist spots. The chain restaurants. The worldwide coffee shops.

I love finding the best tea at those one off local coffee shops, or listening to local DJ personalities on the radio.

Eating breakfast on the barstools of that family run café or stopping at Jeanine’s because they have the best Chai Lattes in town.

I love brides+grooms who are willing to go and explore that secluded beach or ancient ruin packed with history, culture, and stories the day after their destination wedding.

I love getting lost down gravel roads to find those hidden gems rather than exploring crowded and paved pathways.

I love blending in so much that I get asked for directions from out-of-towners… and can answer them.

I love absorbing the unique culture in every new place. Truly experiencing every day life, not just the highlights.

I believe in experiencing every place as a local.