Travel Smarter: Use This Google Translate Trick to Find Local Favorites (Not Just Tourist Traps)
Let’s be honest—some of the top-rated spots on Google Maps are more “Instagram-famous” than they are delicious, charming, or authentic.
But what if you could hack the algorithm just a little to uncover the gems locals actually love?
Here’s a ridiculously easy trick you can try right now, no special tools or apps required.
🎯 The Trick: Search in the Local Language
Instead of typing “best restaurants in [city name]” into Google in English, use Google Translate to convert your search into the local language first.
That’s it. That’s the whole tip.
🤔 Why It Works Like Magic:
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Google’s algorithm loves relevance: When you search in the local language, Google assumes you’re a local—or at least someone looking for local-specific content. It starts prioritizing local websites, forums, blogs, and review platforms that wouldn’t normally pop up in your English searches.
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You get access to real recommendations: Locals aren’t leaving reviews on TripAdvisor. They’re on neighborhood forums, local foodie blogs, or their version of Yelp. This trick helps you find those.
🔧 How To Do It:
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Pick your phrase: Something like:
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“best bars in Prague”
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“affordable restaurants in Rome”
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“cozy cafés in Paris”
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Translate it: Paste your phrase into Google Translate. For example, “best bars in Prague” becomes:
“nejlepší bary v Praze”
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Search the translated version: Copy the translated phrase and paste it directly into Google.
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Use Google’s translation tool (if needed): If the websites that show up are in the local language (yay!), Google will often give you the option to “Translate this page.” Click it and explore.
📍 Real-World Example:
Let’s say you’re heading to Buenos Aires.
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Instead of searching “best restaurants in Buenos Aires”
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Use Google Translate to get “los mejores restaurantes de buenos aires”
This search might lead you to Guía Óleo, a Spanish-language review site that locals use—packed with authentic opinions you won’t find on the usual tourist guides.
💡 Bonus Tip: Use Local Slang for Even Better Results
If you know the local nickname for something—like “pub” vs. “bar” or “cheap eats” vs. “budget food”—translate that instead for even more local flavor.
🌍 Why This Matters:
Travel isn’t just about seeing the sights—it’s about experiencing a place like you belong there. This small switch in your search strategy can help you skip the overpriced, overhyped spots and tap into the flavor of a city the way its residents do.
Ready to ditch the tourist traps? Bookmark this tip and try it on your next trip. You just might find your new favorite meal, tucked away on a quiet street where the menus don’t come in English—and that’s exactly the point. 😉
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