Avoid Tourist Traps and Hang with the Locals

Giving back and getting involved in community projects is a great way to leave tourists far behind. Find a local non-profit that could use time or dollars

Have coffee. Decaf works too. Sit in a cafe where the neighborhood folks go with the morning paper. Even if you don't speak their language, you'll be surprised just how much they will help you

Walk lots, especially away from the major tourist sites. In bigger cities, buy a day bus pass and just head off in random directions, hopping on and off at will

Get recommendations from doormen and taxi drivers. They will recommend something homogenized at first, but keep pressing for somewhere they or only locals hang out.

Find a mode of travel that forces you to slow down and see more of what you are passing through—biking, hiking, riding horses, etc.

ee if there are "meet up" groups in the area that cover topics of interest to you. Take a language class, even if for only a week

Approach the concierge of an upscale hotel at your destination and ask, "Where would you go for X (a great anniversary dinner, to experience the real local culture, etc.

Two unfortunate words: Strip malls. These places aren't built with tourists in mind.

Leave the map at the hotel! There is nothing better than being completely lost in a new city. I find it's the only way to really discover the true life of a place--the people, smells, and flavors.