Take a friendlier route

With over 35,000 private tour options around the world, even we sometimes find it hard to choose. So we asked our own team to share the experiences that stayed with them: the ones that deepened their connection to a place, a guide, or a moment in time.Here’s your year in travel inspiration! Twelve ToursByLocals experiences, one for every month of 2026.January – Floating Over Ancient MexicoHot Air Balloons and History at TeotihuacanBy Alyson, Director of MarketingMy favourite tour experience was a tour we took out of Mexico City, to Teotihuacan. It was absolutely incredible. Our guide Jesús gave us the perfect mix of history and culture while also keeping it light during a long day. He leaned into our interests and regularly checked in with us giving us time on our own when we wanted it to explore independently or when my very pregnant friend needed a break he would drive her in the air conditioned car so she didn't have to walk in the hot sun along the main street of Teotihuacan. He offered us a few detours on the way back when we asked about various places or food.He also ensured we had the best possible time in our hot air balloon securing us the smallest basket (less people) with an experienced pilot that took off first so we got the skies to ourselves for a bit before all the other hot air balloons joined us in floating over Teotihuacan.Like so many ToursByLocals guides - he became more than a guide throughout the day; he became a real friend.Tour Teotihuacan with JésusFebruary – Exploring Colourful CuraçaoFrom Hidden Stairs to Windswept CliffsBy Tracy, VP People + CultureWe had an unforgettable day exploring the beautiful island of Curaçao! The tour was the perfect mix of history, culture, and breathtaking scenery that kept our family of four entertained throughout the full day. Our guide, Raychan, was warm, knowledgeable, and made us feel like instant friends. We started off at the Blue Curaçao distillery at Landhuis Chobolobo followed by a driving tour of Willemstaad to see the sights and learn a bit more about the island’s history.One of our favourite surprises was the colourful hidden stairs in Otrobanda—so vibrant and unique. The Shete Boka National Park was rugged and beautiful—our daughters loved seeing the ocean shoot through blowholes at Boka Pistol. We also got to swim at some gorgeous beaches, spot wild flamingos, and see some turtles at Playa Piskado.This full-day tour really gave us a taste of everything Curaçao has to offer. I’d highly recommend it to anyone looking to explore the island. It was an amazing adventure we won’t forget!Tour Caraçao with RaychanMarch – A Toast to the AndesSavouring Mendoza’s Wines with FlorenciaBy Cami, Payment Operations Specialist Flor is a guide based in Mendoza, Argentina — also known as Argentina’s famous wine region. We took a multi-day tour with her, and it was truly a five-star experience. We visited world-renowned wineries to taste the best wines paired with great food, while being surrounded by breathtaking views of the Andes. Flor’s knowledge and passion for the wine industry totally made the difference in making this a memorable experience. Highly recommended!Tour Mendoza with FlorApril – A Night to Remember in BangkokStreet Food, Tuk Tuks, and Temple ViewsBy Morven, Account Content SpecialistWe were in Thailand for our honeymoon at the end of April and took an amazing night tuk tuk food tour with Jay K. It was so good. We were still very jet-lagged from our long flight, and it was SO HOT (we really felt this, coming from Scotland!) but Jay was so prepared, she even had a bag of mini frozen towels which we ended up using constantly throughout the tour as we were so sweaty, lol. The food was 10/10 and we saw so many sights, ending the tour at a bar with a view over Wat Arun temple. She took a taxi all the way back to our hotel with us even though it was far from where she lived as she was worried we would be overcharged without her there. A great start to the trip!Tour Bangkok with JayMay – A Royal Day in WindsorHistory, Heart, and a Beatles SurpriseBy Leandro, Tour Connection SpecialistWe visited Windsor Castle - the largest and oldest continually occupied castle in the world - with ToursByLocals guide Alexander. Alex was really enthusiastic, and so knowledgeable and kind. He went above and beyond during the tour, and after took us to Abbey Road on our way home - a bonus!Tour Windsor Castle with AlexJune – Golden Evenings in PortugalOysters and Ocean Breezes in LagosBy Macarena, Director of Tour ExperienceWe sailed along the stunning cliffs of Ponta da Piedade in Portgual's Algarve at sunset, surrounded by golden light and calm turquoise waters. Our guide, Max, made the experience truly special. He shared amazing stories, played great music, and even extended the boat trip so we could enjoy the sunset longer. The fresh oyster tasting on board was delicious and unique. It was peaceful, authentic, and one of the highlights of our trip to Portugal.Tour the Algarve with MaxJuly – Summer Learning in BanffCuriosity and Connection in the Canadian RockiesBy Dawn, Internal Quality LeadWhile we didn’t find a sasquatch on our trip - we did find something much cooler: one of our legendary Banff guides, Patrick T.Patrick has so much knowledge and passion for guiding. We hit all the Banff and area highlights as well as a few places we wouldn’t have known about without him. My family is a rather inquisitive bunch and he answered all our questions with ease. He fit right in with us and we all learned so much. My brother’s fiancé commented on how much she enjoyed the learning part of the tour and didn’t expect him to have such a varied background on so many things (history, local politics, geology etc). Please go with Patrick if you ever find yourself in Banff!Tour Banff with PatrickAugust – A Feast for the Senses in PenangFood, Friendship, and the Sea BreezeBy Geneva, VP Customer Support and Service ExcellenceI’d heard so much about the famous food of Penang, Malaysia, and so I was really excited to explore it with a local guide. Everything we ate was absolutely delicious, from street food to tiny hidden restaurants. Our guide David even ended the tour by taking me to a beautiful beach to relax and enjoy some classic chicken skewers with a classic sea view.Tour Penang with DavidSeptember – Coastal Calm in DonegalTradition and Wild Beauty in Ireland’s NorthwestBy Sara, Director of CommunicationsIrish guide Finn delivers exactly the sort of experience I've grown to love with ToursByLocals - an authentic look at places I would not have gone to on my own, seen through the eyes of someone who grew up there. During our 8 hours together, Finn took us along windy backroads to some unforgettable spots along the Donegal coast. Along the way, we witnessed glimpses into traditional Irish life: peat harvesting, sheep farming, local weaving. We also saw how much the landscape meant to Finn and generations of his family. This tour was fantastic value and so enriching. Do not miss exploring Donegal with this guide!Tour Donegal with FinnOctober – Discovering Tokyo’s Culinary SoulSushi, Stories, and the Spirit of TsukijiBy Hevlin, SEO Content SpecialistWe had a great tour at the Tsukiji Fish Market in Tokyo with our guide Kenji. He is a food photographer and sushi chef and we spent the entire morning walking around the market learning about the different types of tuna cuts, fish and wagyu beef that chefs buy there. We tasted lots of great food while he explained what we were eating, the history and some fun facts behind it and also some traditions about Tokyo's sushi when compared to other cities. At the end we had some time left so we went to his office where he made some fresh sushi for us. He took many pics during the tour, made a collage and gave it to us at the end. Super sweet. We had a blast!Tour Tokyo with KenjiNovember – Sunlit Strolls in Southern SpainDiscovering Malaga with CiprianoBy Vlad, Tour Connection SpecialistMy partner and I took a customized tour with Cipriano of the neighbourhoods of Malaga and Costa del Sol. We couldn’t choose a better guide. Cipriano’s knowledge of the area, his friendly approach and willingness to accommodate our requests made for a fun and informative day. Cipriano took us to a local restaurant with great food for lunch and surprised us with a stop at an amazing viewpoint, which wasn’t planned, but very much appreciated. We truly felt like we were discovering the area with a friend. I wouldn’t hesitate to take any of Cipriano’s tours in the future and highly recommend him as your guide.Tour in Malaga with CiprianoDecember – A Christmas Day in RioFestive Spirit with a LocalBy Pierina, Operations Support Specialist & Data ChampWe went on a cruise and stopped at Rio, and our tour fell on December 25th — a day when most places were closed and it was incredibly difficult to find a guide. Leticia not only agreed to take us, she made sure we experienced the city to its fullest.Her storytelling was so vivid we felt as though we were witnessing Carnival live. She brought the city’s history and culture to life, making every moment engaging and unforgettable. Despite the holiday closures, we never felt like we missed anything; the views, the energy, and the sense of celebration were all there. The fact that this trip was our long-postponed honeymoon made the experience even more special. Leticia went above and beyond, and I highly recommend her for an immersive and insightful tour.Tour in Rio with LeticiaTwelve months, twelve stories — each one shaped by the people who bring places to life. Whether you’re dreaming of island rhythms or mountain air, culinary adventures or quiet coastlines, we hope these staff favourites spark your own dream detours in 2026.

When was the last time a trip made you feel part of the place — not just passing through, looking around, but actually welcomed in? That’s the magic of community-based tourism. It’s travel that invites you to slow down, listen, and share in the daily rhythm of local life — sometimes over coffee or a bowl of noodles, sometimes while getting lost down a side street you’ll never forget.Travel with a Human TouchWe believe the best journeys aren’t measured by distance but by memorable conversation — the stories you hear, the laughter you share, the insights that surprise you. Community-based tourism brings that spirit to life. It’s about stepping off the plane, out of your hotel and into someone’s world — whether that means learning a few words of their language, tasting something made from scratch that morning, or joining a tradition that’s been part of the neighbourhood for generations. It’s about the joy of connection, discovering how alike we all are when curiosity leads the way.Where Connection Becomes AdventureAt ToursByLocals, we’ve seen again and again how meaningful encounters often start with something small: a friendly message shared online with your guide to introduce yourself, a shared laugh in person, a thoughtful question, a moment of curiosity. Picture yourself exploring Paris, following your guide through narrow lanes to their favourite local boulangerie or cheese shop. Or maybe you’re in Buenos Aires, learning a few tango dance steps from the locals who’ve been celebrating that way for centuries. Or in Morocco, hearing generational stories that don’t appear in any guidebook but will stay with you long after you’ve unpacked. These are the moments that remind us: travel is still one of the most delightful ways to connect.The Joy (and the real benefit) of Travelling LocalCommunity-based travel doesn’t just enrich your experience; it strengthens the communities you visit. When you book with an independent local guide, your time and spending ripple outward, supporting families, small businesses, and cultural traditions that make each place distinct. It’s a simple equation with a big impact: when travel feels personal, it becomes more sustainable. And yes, it’s also just plain fun — because who better to show you a great time than someone who loves where they live?A Global Community of StorytellersAcross 175 countries, the guides on ToursByLocals bring travellers into their worlds with warmth, humour, and a knack for finding the heartbeat of a place. One might take you to their favourite tapas bar after a day exploring, another might teach you a local greeting that earns instant smiles from passersby. Different settings, different styles — but the same shared purpose: to move away from mass tourism and to make travel feel human again.Connection Is the DestinationChoosing to travel with a local guide is more than a travel style; it’s a mindset. It’s saying yes to spontaneity, to stories, to the simple joy of being part of someone else’s world for a day. Because community-based tourism isn’t just about where you go — it’s about who you meet along the way. At ToursByLocals, we’re here for those moments of connection — big and small. Wherever your next journey takes you, you’ll find local guides ready to share their stories and help you see the world through their eyes.

Today we welcome local guide Carlos in Mexico City as he shares his favourite off the beaten track destinations to explore with visitors. History isn’t just a subject for me; it’s a calling. I’ve immersed myself in its stories, its people, and its fascinating details because I’m genuinely passionate about it. And now, I’m thrilled to share that passion with every traveller I have the pleasure of guiding through this remarkable city - get ready for some juicy historical gossip, myths, and legends! Here’s a selection of five off the beaten track places I think you should explore when you visit Mexico City - whether you’re a first time visitor or returning. 1. The Tetitla Palace Hidden among the ruins of Teotihuacan, this ancient apartment complex is almost always empty. Within, you can find an old forgotten deity waiting for you, the Jade Goddess. This incredible mural has stood here for over a millennia, right in the same spot where a "Tlacuilo" (native artist) kneeled 1,500 years ago to paint it. 2. Malinalco West of Mexico City, this traditional Mexican town was named after the Aztec goddess of the black arts, and within its cobblestone covered streets, you can still find traces of ancient murals that the natives painted on the church, a powerful testament to what the conversion and invasion meant for them. Nearby, after climbing 400 mountain steps surrounded by nature and incredible views, you'll come across the Idol Temple, the pyramid where the jaguar and eagle warriors held their initiations. And to top it off, there’s amazing Mexican cuisine at Malinalco's Town Square!3. Xochicalco May 1st, 664 AD Cuernavaca: the sun was devoured by darkness. An eclipse marked history for the people in Mesoamerica, and wise men from across the lands gathered in this place to figure out what it all meant. They arrived at a singular conclusion: Quetzalcoatl, the feathered serpent god, now walked among men. South of Mexico City, this old fortified city now welcomes visitors surrounded by trees and nature; giving the guest the opportunity to walk among the pyramids, streets, and memories of a long gone civilization. Barely visited by most first-timers, this amazing place will give a unique twist to any trip to Mexico City.4. Iturbide's Tomb Agustín de Iturbide is known for being one of Mexico's liberators during the final stages of The Independence War, however, he met a tragic end when some time afterwards, he was deemed a traitor to the nation he once saved. No monument, no bronze statue, just a small chapel within the Metropolitan Cathedral where his remains rest along his old golden throne. A real hidden gem that truly helps bring history to life! 5. Anahuacalli Museum Nearby Coyoacan, this volcanic rock marvel was built on a farm owned by Diego Rivera and Frida Khalo with the express idea of creating an "Art Capital" where artisans and artists could work hand in hand. Designed by Diego Rivera, Juan O'Gorman, and even some help from Frank Lloyd Wright, the place now houses a small art school, Diego's personal prehispanic artifact collection. and some little known drafts from some of his famous mural artworks! The building, designed after an old native temple, takes the visitor on a journey through the netherworld, and into the House of the Sun. A definite "must-visit" for anyone looking into Mexico City's hidden gems. Planning to explore Mexico City in 2025 or beyond? You can start a conversation with local guide Carlos and he’ll help come up with the perfect itinerary for you and your travel companions.

Today we welcome local guide Irene in Edinburgh as she shares her favourite off the beaten track destinations to explore with visitors in the Scottish capital. Hello! My name is Irene, and I have been a tour guide in Edinburgh since 2015. I began guiding after completing a PhD in History of Art at the University of Edinburgh. I have a passion for history, art, food, books, and travelling (not necessarily in that order!). The best part of my job is meeting travellers from all over the world, sharing Edinburgh's fascinating history with them, and bringing the stories behind its monuments and streets to life. Here are my suggestions for five off the beaten track places to explore in Edinburgh on your first (or fifth!) visit. 1. Picnic with a view in Inverleith Park Nestled in a quiet, residential area of the city, Inverleith Park is the perfect spot for a peaceful walk. I recommend heading towards the pond: from the north side, you can not only watch ducks and swans but also enjoy stunning views of Edinburgh Castle and the Old Town skyline. It's an ideal location for a picnic on sunny days. 2. Have a gaze at "Landform" (Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art) by Charles Jencks If you're looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the city centre, head to Landform. Situated right in front of the Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art in the west of the city, Landform is an intriguing work that blends sculpture, garden, and land art. Take a seat on the grass or stroll around the Landform to admire its waves and curved shapes. Perfect spot to read a book. 3. Find Scottish treats at Stockbridge Farmers Market, Jubilee Gardens Visit Stockbridge on a Sunday (and only Sundays!) and stroll through the Farmers Market. From locally made cheese and smoked salmon to traditional Scottish tablet, you'll find a wide range of treats to enjoy on the spot or take home with you. This market is a favourite among locals, so some stalls can get quite busy—be prepared to queue for a few minutes! 4. Have a nibble at Smith & Gertrude, 26 Hamilton Pl, Stockbridge An independent cheese and wine bar located in the charming district of Stockbridge. I highly recommend it if you're looking to enjoy a glass of wine and some nibbles in a relaxed, local atmosphere. The bread, cheese, and cured meats are all locally sourced, adding a special touch to the experience. In the summer, you can sit at one of the tables outside and watch the world go by. 5. Sample gin cocktails at Heads & Tales (1a Rutland Street) Yes, this is Scotland, but Edinburgh has more to offer than just whisky! Edinburgh Gin, is a local working distillery located in the heart of the city, and its bar - Heads & Tales - is a hidden gem. Here, you’ll find a great selection of gins and gin cocktails, all served in a beautifully designed space. From the bar, you can even catch a glimpse of the two Edinburgh Gin stills. This experience comes with a challenge, though: finding the entrance! It might take you a few minutes, but here’s a hint—it’s tucked away down the stairs, behind a wooden door... Good luck! Planning to explore Edinburgh in 2025 or beyond? Irene holds a PhD and a Masters degree in history of art from the University of Edinburgh, and has been working as a tour guide in Edinburgh since 2015. You can start a conversation with Irene to come up with the perfect Edinburgh and beyond itinerary for you and your travel companions.