Useful websites for booking local experiences

Local people, food places and events are fundamental to our learning. But getting straight to the heart of a new places’ culture isn’t always as easy as I’m sure we’d all like. And although finding the local spots is more organic with longer trips, this list of websites is designed for when time isn’t on your side. If you feel your company is missing from this list, simply drop your useful travel friend an email here.

 Accommodation

• underthedoormat.com

• airbnb

• onefinestay.com

• lovehomeswap.com

• homestay.com

• homeaway.co.uk

• couchsurfing.com | accommodation & events

• myfriendsroom.com

• flipmyroom.com

• trustedhousesitters.com | accommodation & pet care

• aplacelikehome.co.uk

• gotravelcloud.com | comparison website

• alltherooms.com

• veeve.com | London

Things to do (general)

• FUNZING | London

• AIRBNB EXPERIENCES | Global

• gibbyroad.com | USA

• LOCALEUR.COM | US

• VAYABLE | Europe

• WITHLOCALS.COM | Europe & Asia

• Showaround.com | Global

• Rentalocalfriend.com | Global

• YPlan | London

• Dojo (App) | London

• localbini.com | Paris

• cariboo.co | Europe

• GROUPON | UK

• LASTMINUTE.COM | UK

• sharemylocal.co | London | read WW interview with the founder here.

• partywithalocal.com | Global

• volunteeringjourneys.com | Africa & Asia

• designmynight.com | UK

• ecocompanion.com | Worldwide | read WW interview with Eco Companion.

• meetup.com | Global

• inspitrip.com | South East Asia

• coolcousin.com | us, uk, europe

• Learn with Locals | Bali

• back street academy | asia

• your grapevine

Gastronomy 

• grubclub.com | London

• TRAVELING SPOON | Asia, Mexico & Greece

• VIZEAT | Global

• cookdtour.com | Ethiopia & Tanzania

• shareeatnetwork.com | NYC, SF, London and Paris

•  cookly | Asia & Europe

Check out useful websites for booking flights too, or useful websites for booking hostels if you’re still looking for a place to stay.