There comes a point in almost everyone's life where they get to play tour guide. Whether it's for friends, family, or even the occasional couchsurfer, being a good guide for where you live is a difficult art to perfect. You've got to mix your city's culture, food, and personality with your visitors' own tastes; ending up with a unique recipe for adventure. But what ingredients should you pick?
Your first instincts may be to hit up all the standard tourist attractions. After all, isn't that what they're there for? But, to concoct a truly tasty trip, you'll need to be more selective in your picks. Follow along for a few ideas to keep your guests coming back for more.
Think of all the places you love to eat. Pick some of the best local restaurants, using your visitors' tastes as a guide, and you'll be able to take them on a culinary ride they'll not likely forget. Here in Seattle, we usually use a heavy dose of coffee, beer, baked goods (doughnuts and cupcakes anyone?) as well as a smattering of other local tastes. What's good in your city?
Brainstorming isn't the same as planning. Come up with more ideas than you could ever use. That way, when the weather doesn't cooperate you'll be able to rebound without having to do any more research.
Get your significant other or a buddy to help you roughly plan out the days you'll be with your visitors. That way, you won't be stuck doing all the work yourself, plus you can get some new ideas and a different perspective on where you live. I can't stress enough to NOT overplan, just get a rough sketch of what you could do each day. Everything and anything could get in the way of the best-laid plans, including people not liking your ideas.
Remember the small, and usually free, things that really show off where you live. For example, driving north on Route 99 through downtown Seattle gives a spectacular view of the Puget Sound, downtown itself, and the Olympic mountains, all without having to pay a dime (or leave the car!) Think about all those places you've found while driving, walking or bussing around that really make you love where you live.
While you may have spent all the time in the world brainstorming, planning, and stressing, it's still your guests' trip. Keep an open mind and don't push your ideas too hard. You may find yourself enjoying things you never would have expected.
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