The world is a big and exciting place.

There will be places you know and feel connection towards, perhaps from films, books, friends or family. There are the ‘usual places’, the tourist and backpacker hits. Then there is the path less travelled.

Countries without a developed tourism industry, or places that are slightly off the beaten track can offer a very different experience.

Personally, I like to experience local life. I’m fascinated by other cultures but like to be able to meet and connect with with English speaking people too.

Sometimes it’s nice to stay a little longer and get a real feel for a place…

I tend to find that the less touristy places will have a slightly different caliber of traveller, perhaps those who are looking for something similar to me from their journey.

Do your research. Ask lots of people for recommendations. Watch videos. Trawl forums for tips of places to go. Don’t be afraid to change your plans when you get there.

“Where have you been and where are you going next? always seems like the ultimate question.

Sometimes it’s nice to stay a little longer, meet the locals, get a real feel for a place.

Once your face becomes known in a small town, you never know what opportunities may arise.

Tom Bing and Sally McGee are photographers, filmmakers and writers from North East England.

Between them, they have surfed and travelled to North Africa, Europe, Indonesia, Australia, New Zealand, Japan and they travel extensively in the UK.

Follow their journey around South America on their website, Drifter Visual, and on Instagram.