I always love traveling to a city where a friend lives. For me, going to places where locals go and eat is 80% of why I travel. The small cafe, independent store, lively neighborhood or park are always the most memorable. But what do you do if you don't know a local? I think many cities have caught onto the fact that a cookie cutter tour is not what many tourists want.
In Chicago we have the
Chicago Greeter where they pair you up with a resident who has similar interests to take you on a tour. Its an awesome program that I always get great feedback on at the tourism center (one of my many jobs).
Now that I am going to Korea, I requested a visitor package and they too have a similar program
Goodwill Guide. You can have a local give you a tour as well as take you to sights to translate and help with transportation. It is free but if you there is any admission you must pay for your guide, not too shabby.
Another program is
Homestay where you stay with a family instead of a hotel or hostel. Its an great idea to get comfortable and have an authentic view of the culture. Also, it costs only $40 dollars a night, an awesome price if you ask me for room and a great and welcoming experience to the country.
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| Via a great article in National Geographic about expanding cities |
Now that I know that many cities have programs like these, its going to be the first thing I research after I figure out cities I'm going to.
Also, things
I am excited about in Korea and a
Chicago photo walk.
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