Product Overview of ToursByLocals
Introduction
ToursByLocals is a global online marketplace that connects travelers with local, experienced tour guides to provide customized, private tour experiences. Founded in 2008, the platform aims to offer travelers a more authentic and personalized way to explore destinations around the world.
Key Features
Customizable Private Tours
ToursByLocals allows travelers to book private tours tailored to their interests and preferences. These tours can range from half-day to multi-day experiences and are designed and led by local guides who are passionate about their homeland. The platform offers tours in over 174 countries, ensuring a wide range of options for travelers.
Local and Knowledgeable Guides
The platform partners exclusively with top-caliber, thoroughly vetted guides who use their local knowledge to create unique tour itineraries. These guides set their own prices, ensuring they are fairly paid for their services. This approach guarantees that travelers receive insightful and authentic experiences from people who are deeply knowledgeable about the area.
Flexible Itineraries
Travelers can customize their tour itineraries to fit their needs, whether it’s a city tour, shore excursion, art and history-focused tour, culinary tour, or outdoor adventure. The flexibility in itinerary design allows for a more personalized and enjoyable experience.
User-Friendly Booking Process
The ToursByLocals website is designed for ease of use, allowing travelers to search for tours by destination, read reviews of guides, view full tour itineraries, and check the type of transport used. Travelers can also message guides directly to ask questions before booking and pay securely via credit card or PayPal. Payments are held in trust until the tour is completed to ensure customer satisfaction.
Secure Payment and Customer Support
ToursByLocals ensures secure payment processing and offers a 24-7 customer service team to handle any issues, process refunds, and ensure tour quality. This support system helps in maintaining high customer satisfaction and trust in the platform.
Trade Access and Agent Integration
The platform has recently introduced a dedicated section for travel agents to sign up, streamlining access to personalized experiences for their clients. This feature includes a guaranteed commission for agents, enhancing the platform’s appeal to the trade sector.
Functionality
Guide Management
The platform allows guides to manage their schedules, accept or deny new bookings, and set their own availability and pricing. Guides can also use the private messaging functionality to communicate with potential clients and provide itinerary details.
Customer Tools
Travelers have access to a range of tools, including the ability to view past experiences, record memories, and potentially share their travel logs with others. This social aspect enhances the overall travel experience and fosters a community of travelers.
Scalability and Sustainability
While the platform faces challenges in scaling due to the highly customized nature of its services, it continues to grow by focusing on exceptional guide recruitment and retention. The platform’s commitment to quality and customer satisfaction helps in sustaining its growth and reputation.
Value Proposition
ToursByLocals captures value by charging customers a one-time booking fee and a small payment processing fee, without any subscription fees. For guides, the platform provides a steady stream of new customers and tools to manage their bookings efficiently. This model ensures that both travelers and guides benefit from the platform, creating a win-win scenario.
In summary, ToursByLocals offers a unique and personalized travel experience by connecting travelers with local, knowledgeable guides. Its user-friendly booking process, secure payment system, and customizable tour options make it an attractive choice for those seeking meaningful and memorable travel experiences.