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Tips & Traps
Insider advice from Local Friends and travelers. What to do, and what to avoid, city by city.
- TipA place or a move worth it
- TrapWhat to avoid, and how
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Insider advice from Local Friends and travelers. What to do, and what to avoid, city by city.
Join RALF to share your own tips and traps
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Space Center Houston is NOT close to downtown. It’s about 45–60 min away.
Many travelers assume it’s quick — it’s a half-day commitment. Plan transportation in advance.
Explore Houston from the water at Buffalo Bayou Park — one of the most unexpected experiences in the city. You can rent kayaks, bike along the trails, or just walk with skyline views.
Best time: sunset Local vibe: picnic + skyline + chill Houston energy
Houston doesn’t really have one central area to explore. Each neighborhood has its own vibe:
• Montrose - artsy & walkable • The Heights - cafes & boutiques • Midtown - nightlife • Museum District - culture
Many first-timers go straight to downtown, but locals head to the bayou parks. Walk, bike, or just watch the skyline at sunset.
It’s one of the few places where Houston actually feels walkable. Perfect for golden hour, picnics, and skyline views.
Even in big cities like Bogotá and Medellín, many small shops, local markets, and even some services don’t accept cards. Having cash on hand will save you from awkward situations.
While you’ll find some English speakers in tourist areas, most locals in Colombia speak Spanish. Simple phrases go a long way and make interactions much smoother and friendlier!
Try these:
Hola - Hello Gracias - Thank you Por favor - Please
¿Cuánto cuesta? - How much does it cost? ¿Dónde está…? - Where is…? La cuenta…
Even though it’s in Latin America, Bogotá can get quite cold and the weather changes fast throughout the day. Don’t assume it’ll be warm. 🌧️ Always carry a jacket and something waterproof.
This is one of Latin America’s most important museums, showcasing ancient goldwork from Indigenous cultures. Plan at least two hours... the exhibits are dense and beautifully curated.
Small ramen shops and izakayas often only take cash. Always carry some yen to avoid awkward situations, especially late at night.
Do not make or take phone calls while on Japanese trains, including the subway and Shinkansen (bullet train). Avoid listening to music loudly or engaging in loud conversations, as absolute silence is expected. This rule honors the Omotenashi culture and respects tired commuters who rely on the quiet carriage time for…
In areas like Nara and Miyajima, do not provoke the sacred deer. These animals are wild and have injured tourists (kicking and biting) when angered, often by people teasing them with food to get a perfect selfie, or withholding food after attracting them.
Furthermore, do not feed them human food, as it can make them…
If you want one of the most impressive skyline views in Tokyo, save time for the Tokyo City View observation deck on the top floors of the Mori Tower in Roppongi Hills. The panoramic windows give you a 360° perspective of the city — including Tokyo Tower glowing right in front of you at night. The best part is that…
While the “blue dollar” system is well-known, exchanging cash on the street involves counterfeit risks. Always choose licensed exchange houses.
Enjoy San Telmo on Sundays
The San Telmo Market and fair offers antiques, artisan goods, tango performances, handmade jewelry, and local snacks. A very lively local atmosphere.
Explore the MALBA and its contemporary Latin American collection
You'll see iconic works by Frida Kahlo, Antonio Berni, Tarsila do Amaral, and more.
The museum café is also excellent for a break.
Try a proper parrilla but go outside the busiest streets.
Instead of restaurants right on Avenida Santa Fe or Calle Florida, go for neighborhood classics like Don Julio (book in advance), La Cabrera, Santos Manjares, or Parrilla Peña. Tip: order “ojo de bife” or “entraña” and pair with Malbec. 🍷
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