Although free city walking tours are great, sometimes it is nice to have a more personalized (but still free) option. Fortunately, such an option exists. And it IS free!
Locals, in a number of worldwide destinations, are available to show visitors around as they would friends or family. Unlike a conventional tour, things are less formal and more tailored to your interests. This is especially useful for anyone who is traveling alone, has limited time in a location or just wants to get a local’s perspective on the culture and area.
Global Greeter Network is the most comprehensive listing of locations available. The already exhaustive list just keeps growing as new locations are added all the time.
Popular independent options not mentioned in the greeter network list include Tokyo Free Guide and Goodwill Guide (for Korea).
Again, these free tours are completely free – even tipping is not encouraged. The only drawback is that arrangements must be made in advance to ensure your local friend is available.
Hi girls,
Great idea but my concern would taking advantage of locals especially in poor countries. Would you use these services absolutely free or would you at least tip the local guide? I love your blog.
Derek, you bring up an interesting point. My understanding is that guides are completely voluntary- just locals who love their city and are happy to show someone around. Although technically you are not supposed to tip, I think it would be nice to at least pick up lunch/dinner or bring a little something from home for your guide. Thanks for reading!
It almost seems too good to be true? Have you tried them?
Haven’t had the opportunity to try it yet but a friend used it in Tokyo and loved it- still keeps in touch with his guide too.
One of my best travel experiences was being shown around Ljubljana by a local my dad and I met on a train.
Great advice. I have used Global Greeters in NYC and Paris and loved it so much I came home and helped get a service set up in my hometown Sydney. The tours are completely free although you can make a donation to the organisation if you wish. They are non-profit and use any funds to pay for things like insurance, website and training volunteers.
Don’t feel you are taking advantage of locals as people who volunteer do so because they love their city and enjoying sharing it with people and meeting other travellers.
I highly recommend checking for the service in any city you are planning to visit. My advice – book at least 2-3 weeks before you arrive.
They also do this in Brisbane if anyone is interested: Brisbane Greeters are volunteers who love to share their knowledge of our beautiful city.
http://www.visitbrisbane.com.au/brisbane-greeters?sc_lang=en-au