Take a friendlier route

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 Touch We 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 Adventure At 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 Local Community-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 Storytellers Across 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 Destination Choosing 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.

Rio de Janeiro, Brazil is famous worldwide for its iconic viewpoints: Christ the Redeemer and Sugarloaf Mountain. They are the highlights of the city and have been shown countless times on television, in magazines, newspapers, and across the internet. But beyond these famous images, what often captures visitors’ attention is the density of Rio’s natural beauty. This city may well be the number one big city in the world with the highest concentration of mountains. For that reason, the landscapes of Rio are not limited to Christ and Sugarloaf. We asked local guide Alan to share his favorite lesser-known lookouts. Alan is 43 years old, born and raised in Rio de Janeiro. Having traveled to 35 countries across all continents, he’s had the opportunity to connect with many different cultures and languages—an experience that only deepened his desire to share his own city, Rio de Janeiro, with visitors. Here are five off-the-beaten-path viewpoints that offer stunning perspectives of Rio. All can be reached without hiking, and none charge an entrance fee: Pedra Bonita Ramp Known as the launching point for paragliders and hang gliders, Pedra Bonita Ramp can be reached by car and offers an impressive view of Pedra da Gávea—the world’s largest monolith that begins right at the ocean’s edge. From this spot, the scenery is especially striking: Pedra da Gávea rises on one side, while on the other you see the graceful silhouette of the Two Brothers Hills. Two Brothers Park Viewpoint Not to be confused with the top of the Two Brothers mountain (which requires a one-hour hike from the Vidigal Favela), this viewpoint lies within Two Brothers Park. At the end of Leblon Beach, a road climbs the slope of the hill, leading to a lookout where you can enjoy sweeping views of Leblon and Ipanema beaches. The park itself has been revitalized and offers a green, tranquil area for strolling. Chinese View (Vista Chinesa) One of Rio’s most beautiful viewpoints, Chinese View is unique among the city’s drive-up lookouts. From here, you can see Sugarloaf Mountain, Christ the Redeemer, Rodrigo de Freitas Lagoon, and the beaches of Leblon, Ipanema, and Copacabana—all from the same angle. It’s a rare panorama that brings together Rio’s most famous landmarks in one frame. Dona Marta Viewpoint This viewpoint offers two equally stunning perspectives. On one side, you can admire Rodrigo de Freitas Lagoon with Corcovado Mountain and the Christ the Redeemer statue from an unusual angle. On the other, Guanabara Bay stretches out in all its grandeur, with Sugarloaf Mountain standing proudly at its entrance. Ruins Park (Parque das Ruínas) In the charming neighborhood of Santa Teresa, this unusual lookout sits atop the remains of a mansion once owned by Brazilian socialite Laurinda Santos Lobo. From the rooftop, visitors can take in views of Guanabara Bay, downtown Rio, Santos Dumont domestic airport, and, of course, Christ and Sugarloaf. The crumbling walls of the house add a unique atmosphere, blending history and scenery in one remarkable spot. If you’re looking for unique perspectives of Rio beyond the well-trodden paths, these five viewpoints are not to be missed. To discover them with local insight and stories, consider starting a conversation with Alan— to design a private experience that will showcase the city’s landscapes to you in truly unforgettable ways.