When you think of authentic travel experiences, fast-food chains like McDonald’s probably don’t come to mind. But hear me out—sometimes, the most genuine insights into a culture come from the places we least expect.

Take Tokyo, for example. On a recent visit, I wandered into a suburban McDonald’s and struck up a conversation with a group of older locals. Over coffee, they shared memories of the brand’s arrival in Japan back in 1971. For them, it wasn’t just about burgers and fries—it marked a cultural shift, coinciding with the end of one era and the start of another.

Sure, we all love hunting for hidden sushi bars or tucked-away noodle shops, but there’s something refreshingly real about sitting in a fast-food joint. Whether it’s a Burger King in Bangkok or a KFC in Paris, these places offer a slice of everyday life. You’re surrounded by locals going about their routines, completely unfazed by your presence.

The truth is, the search for authenticity often stems from a desire to escape the familiar. Back home, we’re surrounded by global brands, so when we travel, we crave something untouched by that influence. But here’s the twist: brands like McDonald’s and KFC are just as much a part of local life abroad as they are in the U.S.

In Tokyo, for instance, KFC and McDonald’s have been around almost as long as Japanese-style sushi bars have existed in America. And while these chains may have started as American curiosities, they’ve since adapted to their surroundings. In Canada, you’ll find poutine on the McDonald’s menu, while West African KFCs serve jollof rice. In India, McDonald’s even offers a beef-free, largely vegetarian menu, with items like the McAloo Tikki burger becoming local favorites.

So next time you’re abroad, skip the Instagrammable “hidden gems” and grab a seat at a fast-food joint. You might just find a more authentic experience than you bargained for.