It is often hard to fully unplug when traveling. Between smartphones, the internet and the ease with which one can find a copy of The New York Times or USA Today in any remote corner of the globe, it’s easy to stay connected to the news and events taking place back home. However, you’ll have a much more engaging experience if you stick to local periodicals.

Sit in a cafe with the local daily. Pick up a gossip rag and enjoy someone else’s version of sleaze. You may not understand every word (or any word, for that matter), but the layout, photos and design can often tell you everything you need to know about the tone of what you’re reading.

If you do speak the language, then you’re really in for a treat. Spend your time on the ground acting like a local. Follow the political scandals. Read up on the local rugby/field hockey/camel polo team. Or, if you’re into that sort of thing, indulge in some…uh…erotica.

Eschew tracking down your hometown newspaper and, instead, plug into the local scene. You’ll learn more about what’s happening in your destination at that very moment than any brochure or guidebook could tell you.