Seasoned traveler Catriona Rowntree has revealed the secrets she learned from locals while exploring Europe.
The Getaway presenter chatted to friendly faces at a market in Mallorca, Spain to find out how she could make the most of her experience and avoid any mistakes.
She got advice on the best way to start a day at the market, why you should never rent an Airbnb or buy fish on Monday, why takeaway coffee is a bad idea and the secret to a longer, healthy life.
The 52-year-old was warned not to buy seafood on Monday as fishermen do not fish on Sunday and the produce will not be fresh.
“The life expectancy of a Spaniard is 84 years, they are healthy people, they like a Mediterranean diet, a splash of sun and a good climate,” she added.
Catriona Rowntree (pictured) enjoyed chatting to locals during her holiday in Mallorca, Spain. They gave her some useful tips to get the most out of her experience
The Getaway presenter said she was told never to buy fish in Spain on Mondays because fishermen never work on Sundays and the seafood will not be fresh.
The presenter discovered that all the locals she spoke to do not like Airbnb accommodations.
“All the locals I’ve spoken to say this is pushing them out of their apartments as city centers slowly gentrify,” she said.
‘The average wage is low, most residents rent, unfortunately landlords prefer the higher compensation of an Airbnb. Not cool!’
Catriona’s last tip is not to pick up your coffee.
“People sit down to enjoy their coffee, they don’t get takeaway, ‘If you can’t sit down for five minutes and talk to someone about what’s going on with you!’” she said.
Catriona said a local told her to start her day exploring the markets by buying hot chocolate and some churros.
“Not every day, since you’ll be there, but definitely market day,” she said.