The ‘I Just Work Here’ Trick – How to Blend in and Get Local Discounts

Tourists often pay more than locals for everything—from food and transportation to entertainment and attractions. But what if you could blend in and enjoy local prices instead? The ‘I Just Work Here’ Trick is a clever way to avoid the dreaded tourist markup and get discounts meant for residents. Whether you’re traveling on a budget or just love scoring a deal, knowing how to pass as a local can make a big difference in your travel experience.

Why Tourists Get Charged More

Many businesses, especially in popular tourist destinations, have different pricing for locals and visitors. This is common in markets, transportation, and even entry fees for attractions. Tourists are often seen as willing to pay more, leading to inflated prices. The key to avoiding this is to look like you belong—even if you’re just passing through.

Master the ‘I Just Work Here’ Look

The first step to blending in is avoiding obvious tourist signals. Here’s how to look like a local employee, student, or long-term resident:

• Dress like the locals: Skip the obvious tourist outfits (no fanny packs, oversized maps, or camera straps).
• Walk with purpose: Even if you’re lost, don’t stand around looking confused—use your phone discreetly for directions.
• Speak confidently: Even if you don’t know the local language, a few well-practiced phrases can help you blend in.
• Skip the guidebooks: Checking a phone map is more discreet than flipping through a travel book.

How to Get Local Discounts

Many businesses assume that if you work in the area, you’re eligible for local rates. Here’s how to subtly take advantage of that:

• Use casual phrasing: Instead of asking, “How much is this for tourists?” try, “What’s the local rate?” or “Do you have worker discounts?”
• Be vague about your stay: If asked, say something like “I’m here for a while” instead of “I’m just visiting for a few days.”
• Know common workplace locations: If pressed, mention a well-known local company, university, or coworking space.

Where This Trick Works Best

Not every place will have local discounts, but some spots are more likely to offer them:

• Markets and street vendors: Prices are often negotiable, and blending in can help you avoid the "tourist tax."
• Public transportation: Some cities have special fares for residents and workers.
• Museums and attractions: Many places offer discounted entry for locals or expats.
• Restaurants and cafés: Some places have separate pricing for locals vs. tourists.
• Gyms and coworking spaces: Day rates may be lower if they think you’re a local worker.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Blending in is an art, and making the wrong move can blow your cover. Avoid these common mistakes:

• Over-explaining: The more details you give, the easier it is for someone to realize you’re a tourist.
• Flashing foreign currency: Paying in large foreign bills can immediately mark you as a visitor.
• Taking too many photos: Locals don’t take pictures of every street corner—act like you’ve seen it before.

Blending In Is a Travel Superpower

The ‘I Just Work Here’ Trick isn’t about lying—it’s about adapting to your surroundings and moving like a local. Whether it helps you score a discount, avoid tourist traps, or just experience a city more authentically, learning how to blend in makes any trip more rewarding. Next time you travel, ditch the obvious tourist act and see how much you can save just by looking like you belong.