Getting Your Sense of Direction in a Foreign City

Let’s be honest; we’ve all popped out of a metro stop, looked around and had absolutely no idea where we are or how to get where we’re going. The good news is, it doesn’t have to be that way. Here are a few easy tips to keep you heading in the right direction.

A map and a compass will be your greatest allies. All concierges, whether in hostels or hotels, will be glad to provide you with a map and directions. Sometimes, however, this isn’t enough or you haven’t even found your hotel yet. Not to worry, there are a lot of ways to get your bearings.

Cultivate a sense of where the sun is at all times. As a traveler, the sun is always your best point of reference and easiest way to determine directions. The sun rises in the east, more or less, and sets in the west. So if it’s morning and the sun is on your right, you’re facing north. In the afternoon the sun will be on your left if you’re facing north. If you can’t see the sun, look for shadows. They will be pointing away from the direction the sun is in. After a bit of practice, you will instinctively know where the sun is, and subsequently, where you are.

If it’s overcast, things get a little trickier. Luckily, however, we live in an age where we’re surrounded by technology. Most smartphones have a compass app that works by a magnetometer, so it will work without service or WiFi. If you don’t have a compass app, you could carry a small compass on your backpack.

Finally, if all else fails: ask. Most people love to help, and would be glad to point you in right direction.