How Not to Look Like a Tourist when You’re Vacationing in San Luis Obispo

San Luis Obispo is the perfect place to take your next vacation, but what should you do if you want to avoid looking like a tourist? When visiting San Luis Obispo, certain things can be telltale signs that you’re just passing through. The welcoming staff at Sands Inn & Suites, a premier San Luis Obispo boutique hotel you can rely on for exceptional service and comfort, offer this guide on how not to look like a tourist when traveling to this beautiful city.

Ask Locals What They Think of the City Before You Arrive

Go online and find forums where you can ask local residents for their opinions on San Luis Obispo before you come. If you do this after you get to San Luis Obispo, it will be another dead giveaway you’re new here because most people who live in SLO simply go about their lives without thinking twice about it. If you’re trying to avoid looking like a tourist, don’t ask everyone you meet how lovely San Luis Obispo is.

Don’t Take Your Selfie Stick Everywhere

Selfie sticks are a tourist favorite, so avoid carrying one around with you. If you’re using your phone to take photos of yourself, try not to pose in front of landmarks and other attractions that are exceptionally well known. Pairing your selfie with an iconic landmark like Mission San Luis Obispo de Tolosa isn’t something locals would do, since they’ve seen it countless times before. You can avoid looking like a tourist by simply not engaging in these obvious photo ops.

Pack Some Layers

San Luis Obispo is cool most of the year due to its coastal location, so bring some extra layers with you on your trip just in case the weather takes a turn for the worse. If you’re wearing long pants, a sweater, and a scarf, locals won’t think they’ve got another tourist on their hands.

Don’t Stop if You See People Doing Yoga on the Street

If you’re visiting San Luis Obispo, there’s a good chance you may come across people practicing yoga in unusual places. For example, yogis can be seen performing exercises outside downtown bars and other venues throughout the day. Just continue walking by if this happens—don’t walk up to them to ask what they’re doing or where their studio is located because this will give away that you’re new to town.

Rent a Bike Instead of Driving a Car

If you really want to blend in, rent a bike when you’re here. Bikes are ideal for traveling around town and exploring the area on your own time because this will keep locals from thinking you’re just another tourist.

Visitors to San Luis Obispo will find so much to enjoy they’ll want to stay for several days. When they’re looking for high-quality service at an exceptionally comfortable hotel, SLO visitors should reach out to the friendly staff at Sands Inn & Suites. We have everything our guests need for a relaxing stay. Our wide array of amenities include refrigerators, microwave ovens, flat-screen TVs with digital cable, and complimentary high-speed WiFi. To learn more about our exceptional accommodations, call us today at (800) 441-4657.