Private Tours: The Safest Way to Travel in 2021

As 2020 inches into its final quarter, those of us who love to travel are watching as we tick closer to a time when border restrictions begin to ease. When that will be no one yet knows, but fingers are collectively crossed in the ToursByLocals office... and around the world.

As much as we love exploring outside our borders, our priority at ToursByLocals is the health and safety of our guides, travellers and staff, as we navigate these uncertain times. One thing we know: the safest thing to do right now and for the near future is to keep our "bubbles" carefully drawn. And that includes when we eventually begin to travel farther afield in the coming months.

Back in April, Forbes predicted that small private tours would become the new travel norm. Six months later, we'd agree! Unlike group tour scenarios, where you're mingling with strangers in close quarters, a private tour allows you to benefit from the expertise of a local guide, while still maintaining the safety of your family bubble. The only people on your tour will be the people you are already traveling with, whether that's your spouse, family or close friends. All tours are booked online in advance, so touchpoint are minimized: there's never a need to handle tickets or cash payments on the day of the tour.

While it goes without saying by now, we're going to say it anyway! We expect every ToursByLocals guide and traveler to act responsibly to protect the health and safety of themselves, their companions, and the wider communities in which they live, work and travel. As such, we've created COVID-19 Health and Safety Guidelines to ensure our guides and travelers can always enjoy each other's company in as safe an environment as possible.

When you're ready to venture out again, bear in mind that spending time with a private guide not only enriches your trip, but helps to breathe life back into local economies. So whether you're in your own city, state, province or crossing international borders, stay safe, stay kind, and stay smart" book a private tour.