Sarah AntonieTravelling is often about exploring landmarks, savouring local cuisine, and wandering through neighbourhoods. However, one of the most insightful ways to truly understand a city is by visiting its bars. Here are some compelling reasons why bars should be on your travel itinerary:
A Glimpse into Local Life
Bars offer a unique window into how locals unwind and what they value after a long day’s work. They reveal nuances that guidebooks often miss. Simply sitting back and observing can make a city feel familiar within minutes.
The Heartbeat of Local Culture
Bars are the heartbeat of local culture and daily routines. They are casual spots where friends meet after work without the need for elaborate planning, and conversations flow naturally. Walking into a bustling bar in a new city allows you to observe how people dress, speak, and interact. This experience goes beyond ticking off tourist attractions; it offers a deeper connection to the place.
Craft Cocktails and Local Ingredients
Many travellers now seek out bars known for their craft cocktails, as these establishments reflect local care, ingredients, and personality. A well-curated drink menu often mirrors the city’s character, whether it takes bold risks or keeps things simple.
Choosing the Right Bar
Not every bar is worth your time. Some popular tourist spots can feel generic. Instead, look for bars a few streets away from the main attractions and avoid places with aggressive signage. Bars that are too busy on weeknights might also be best to skip. For the best recommendations, ask your hotel receptionist or a local shop owner where they go after work. Their suggestions are often more authentic than online lists.
Memorable Experiences
Choosing to sit at the bar rather than a table changes the entire experience. You can watch the drinks being made, hear stories without interrupting, and receive unprompted recommendations. These moments often become the most memorable parts of your trip, like having a late-night conversation with the bartender or a local explaining the unique history of a drink. These experiences, accompanied by background music, may not be captured in photographs, but they linger in your memory.
Bringing the Experience Home
After your trip, you’ll remember places through taste. Finding your favourite cocktail can transport you back to your travels. You might try to recreate the drink at home, and even if it doesn’t taste exactly the same, that’s perfectly fine. It means you didn’t just visit a city; you truly experienced it. Next time you travel, you’ll know exactly where to start.
