FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How does renting a local friend work?
Rent a Local Friend is a global platform that connects people who love to travel with those who are passionate about where they live and have a great story to tell. More than just an outing, we support the sharing of local tips, information that will be revealed in no travel book or guide and last but certainly not least the essence of each local culture and spirit. All of this is done in a spontaneous, genuine, collaborative, and interest based way allowing people to connect with those with whom they share similarities or own characteristics that will allow an unique and authentic immersion in the visiting destination. Local Friends are journalists, photographers, chefs, designers…from all over the world, who like to host foreign visitors and show them their favorite local spots in the city. For people who want to explore different cities as a traveler, not as a tourist, this is a fun alternative way of exploring a new place.
2. How do I become a Local Friend?
To become a Local Friend you must create your profile page in order to be found by travelers.
3. How do I rent a Local Friend?
To contact a Local Friend directly, you need an active RALF membership first: Traveler, Local Friend or Local Friend Guru.
4. Are there any fees to become a Local Friend?
Yes. Membership is a subscription you can pay monthly or yearly: Local Friend costs $3.99/month or $25.00/year, and Local Friend Guru costs $5.99/month or $55.00/year. Travelers can join for $2.99/month or $19.00/year, and partner agencies for $200.00/year. You can cancel anytime, and your plan stays active until the end of the period you already paid for.
5. What is the membership contribution used for?
Your membership gives you a verified profile with global reach on the platform. It covers what keeps the community running: servers, e-mails, security, support and the campaigns that promote members' profiles.
6. How can I pay? Can I use PayPal or an international wire transfer?
Payments go through our secure Stripe checkout, by credit or debit card, Apple Pay or Google Pay. We don't accept PayPal or wire transfers. Prices are in US dollars, and the checkout may show the amount converted to your local currency.
7. Are there any other commissions for the Local Friend to pay to the platform?
No. Once you are a verified member, we don't charge any extra fee or commission for the connections you'll make through the platform.
8. My city is not on the list. Can I still be a Local Friend?
For sure! You can become a Local Friend in a city that's not listed there yet: once you start filling your profile, the platform will give you the option to 'create' a city, so you can do that to be the first one on your location.
9. Do I have to host someone in my house? Or is it just to show the city around?
You don't need to host anyone at your house, just create an itinerary and go out with the person(s) for a walk on the given day, or do it online as a Virtual Friend service.
10. How should I fill out my profile? What should I write about?
The more you tell about yourself, the merrier! Write about who you are, your profession, what do you like to do, where do you usually go in your city, your favorite places… It is also interesting to add a video and to create your Tips & Traps page. There you can show that you’re an expert on your city, suggesting where to go and what to avoid. It's great visibility for your profile!
11. How can I update my details?
You can update your details under your name and picture on the top right of the page. Just click on 'Edit my Profile'.