More people who travel nowadays plan their trip for nights instead of their days. The term for this trend is noctourism. Essentially, it’s a journey in a new time of a day. The advantage to the alternative brings extra time to see a city or nature without the feeling of being rushed.

Night Time Is Often Less Stressful

By far, most people find night time rather soothing. Streets are less noisy, temperatures lower, and in most places, people are fewer. So, the whole atmosphere changes. A place that you already knew suddenly becomes different and even more amazing.

It’s no secret that countless things to do arrive in big cities once the sun goes down. For example, night bazaars are open for you to take a stroll. Fresh food from the street keeps your tummy full, and museums that operate late hours keep their doors open. Then, many operators run evening guided tours that lead you to small local streets. Furthermore, depending where you are, there’s an opportunity to take in some stargazing.

Actually, an increasing number of places offer more night time activities that attract nocturnal tourists. Tokyo really brightens up its streets. Singapore allows people to visit the gardens and parks at night. Meanwhile, Berlin lets its guests enjoy late hours full of local culture. And, Mexico City’s got a good rep for night food tours. In fact, even smaller towns follow the trend of providing night trips and lit-up gardens.

Reasons Night Travel Becomes More Popular

I must admit that I like the practical side of the situation as well. Heat and sun can make it very difficult to sightsee during the day. At night, the air feels fresher and cooler. Also, many folks don’t like crowded streets during the day. During the night, you probably find opportunity for a more relaxed outing.  Furthermore, lights and shadows create a dramatic look which looks great on Instagram.

Another advantage works if you travel on business. Night time’s a great option for those busy with work and other commitments during the day. Even if your day arrived brimful of meetings, you can still go out and discover new places when the evening arrives. Night group tours are a favorite, mainly as they offer a degree of safety and support for travelers.

How To Prepare For Noctourism

Proper planning is very important. Firstly,  try and book accommodation in a central area so that you don’t need to commute far after dark. Stay safe by checking out trusted guides. For that, you can visit a local information center or go onto sites like Trip Advisor for reviews.

Safe evening programs are present in most cities nowadays which is good news for people looking for that kind of experience. Guided tours usually make sure that routes always have some kind of illumination. In addition to that, transport options always seem well arranged. Not only that, but the organizers give very clear starting and finishing times.

Of course, you have to always be careful. Go only to areas which are populated. While you might like fewer people around, they do help protect your safety. Obviously, keep dark alleys off your itinerary. Save your destination on your phone and always have a fully charged battery pack with you. If you travel alone, let somebody know where you are going. Put on comfortable shoes and don’t carry heavy bags with you. Light, and simple works best at night.

A New Way To See The World

The ambiance of night travel seems completely different from during the day. The world isn’t as fast as usual. The things you hear are different. And for some reason, other people seem on the whole, kinder and more courteous. This is the time when local life presents a more likable side. Most travelers who experienced noctourism say that they found the night version of any destination more authentic and attractive.

In fact, your next trip will be more enjoyable even if you do just one or two things at night time. For instance, you can walk through a night market. You can participate in a moonlit tour. Or, you can watch the stars in a quiet open space. You might even feel that night is the best part of your adventure. Meanwhile, if you’re a night owl and love to party, almost every city brings an opportunity for that as well.

Of course, you need not confine yourself to the cities to experience noctourism. More remote places offer opportunity to see wildlife in a different way.

Did you ever try sightseeing after sunset? Did you grab some Instagram worthy photos? Let us know in the comments below, and come back here often for all our travel news, tips and updates.