Taking the road less followed on Instagram...

Holidaymakers are looking to get off the beaten path and live like a local

- BY ANDY CHIVERS

MORE than three-quarters of holidaymakers try to 'live like a local' when abroad as priorities shift towards creating unique experiences.

Eating at restaurants recommended by residents, shopping in the local grocery stores, and walking or cycling to explore an area are all high on the list of ways to have an authentic experience.

The poll, of 2,000 adults who have travelled abroad, found 47% of those who like to holiday like a local also enjoy visiting smaller towns and villages nearby while away.

Others try to blend in and get off the tourist track by visiting neighbourhood markets, using public transport instead of coaches or taxis and hiring a car to get away from the usual hotspots.

The research was commissioned by Skyscanner, which has created a Road Trip Planner to help holidaymakers who are planning to check out local hidden gems.