Spotted by Locals is a unique and insightful travel guide platform that connects travelers with authentic, local experiences in over 80 cities worldwide. Here’s an overview of what the product offers and its key features:
What it Does
Spotted by Locals is designed to help travelers explore cities through the eyes of local residents, moving away from the typical tourist trails and into the heart of local life. The platform, which includes both apps and blogs, is curated by handpicked locals known as “Spotters” who live in the cities they write about and speak the local language.
Key Features
Local Insights
- The guides are written by real locals who share their personal favorite spots, including hidden gems such as cozy cafes, tranquil city parks, and lesser-known art galleries. This ensures that travelers support local entrepreneurs and experience the city’s true character.
Offline Accessibility
- The app offers 100% offline maps and tips, allowing users to navigate and explore cities without the need for an internet connection. This feature is particularly useful for travelers in areas with limited internet access.
User-Friendly Navigation
- The app is designed with easy navigation in mind, making it simple for users to find and bookmark their favorite spots. Users can also search tips by keyword and list spots nearby.
Regular Updates
- The guides are regularly updated with new local gems and tips, ensuring that the information remains fresh and relevant. Users can download these updates when they have access to Wi-Fi.
Community-Driven
- Spotted by Locals is built around a community of volunteer locals who are passionate about their cities. The founders, Sanne and Bart van Poll, have a hands-on approach, meeting all Spotters in person to ensure the quality and authenticity of the recommendations.
Ethical and Sustainable Tourism
- The platform is committed to promoting sustainable tourism by highlighting under-the-radar places and avoiding mainstream tourist sites and global chains. This approach helps spread tourism more evenly, benefiting local businesses and reducing environmental impact.
Personal Touch
- Users can get to know the Spotters through their real names, social media links, personal photos, and unique stories, adding a personal and trustworthy element to the recommendations.
Customization
- Users have the option to add their own locations to the map, including hotels or visitor highlights not already found in the guide, making the app highly customizable.
Additional Benefits
- Spotted by Locals is a strictly non-commercial platform, which means it is free from ads and biased recommendations often found in other travel guides. This ensures that users receive genuine and unbiased tips from locals who are passionate about their cities.
By using Spotted by Locals, travelers can experience cities in a more authentic and sustainable way, discovering hidden gems and supporting local communities. The platform’s unique approach to travel guidance makes it an invaluable tool for anyone looking to explore cities like a local.