It was a warm, sunny day in Batad and I was sweating in my tank top and cutoff shorts. It wasn't exactly the best time to explore the rice terraces on our own, hoping to skip the "touristy route". My travel buddy and I had decided that DIY was the best way to explore this area. 30 minutes later, we were feeling dizzy from the heat and could hardly walk across the narrow paths between the paddies. So much for taking the path less traveled!



Little did we know we were being observed. A teenager was watching us a few steps up the paddies. He was wearing only rubber slippers and a smile. He beckoned for us to follow him.

Our time in Batad became more authentic and memorable because of one person- a local who took his time to guide us and allowed us to see the place through his eyes. After our little tour, we gave him some notes and thanked him for sharing his part of the world with us.

A simple encounter with a local had amplified and enriched the value of our travel experience.



Early this year, I was introduced to Withlocals, a website that connects travelers with locals through food and unique travel experiences. I met a Thai hippie, Aum who taught us how to make leather bags and bracelets in Chiang Mai, Thailand.

But I didn't just learn how to make beautiful things from leather. I learned about all the hard work and creativity that an artist pours into each handcrafted piece. I learned the value of fashioning something by hand. I also learned about about the culture and political situation through the views of a local- all in one afternoon!