Reason #1 to explore a new city by foot: Stumble across less touristy shops and restaurants that you may not find while using public transportation to hop from one tourist area to the next. Just keep your wits about you and avoid seedy areas of town.

Reason #2 to explore a new city by foot: It's great exercise! You can indulge in local delicacies guilt-free since you'll be burning calories (and working up an appetite) by walking around.

Even independent travelers can benefit hugely by traveling with a group adventure - often you will have experiences that would be impossible on your own, for the same or less cost than traveling solo!