Turn isolation into travel exploration with ToursByLocals

As “Home Alone” is feeling more relatable this season with so many sadly isolating over the festive holiday period, keep up the Christmas cheer and plan a virtual travel adventure with ToursByLocals. With 231 live virtual tours in 39 countries, those spending more time than anticipated stuck indoors in the coming weeks can escape with local guides all over the world.

From neighbouring Ireland to the other side of the globe in Australia, celebrate the festivities whilst exploring new destinations through the eyes of an expert local guide.

100% of the value of a Live Virtual Tour (to a limit of $150 USD) can be redeemed when travellers book a future, in-person tour with the same guide.

O little town of Bethlehem

Home to the original Christmas nativity, discover the destination behind the story on a virtual tour of Bethlehem with Ramzi, a born and bred local. Starting in the old city of Jerusalem, learn about each of its four quarters: Jewish, Christian, Muslim and Armenian, before journeying to Bethlehem. Highlights include Manger Square, the focal spot for all Christmas celebrations in the city, with a giant tree where locals get together to sing carols. Virtual visitors can also spot the Mosque of Omar and The Church of the Nativity, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with a grotto considered by Christians as the birthplace of Jesus.

ToursByLocals (www.toursbylocals.com) offers a one-and-a-half-hour Jerusalem and Bethlehem live virtual tour for £113 per tour for up to 10 users. Guiding Services provided via an online video conference system

Silent Scandinavian night

Explore the winding streets of Stockholm this Christmas with local guide Per, as he teaches guests about Swedish culture and tales of the city. Start this virtual evening tour at the beautifully illuminated display windows at Stockholm's famous department store, NK, and stroll past “gingerbread” style houses with festive lights, spotting highlights around the city such as Parliament, the Royal Palace, Royal Opera and Lutheran Cathedral. Navigate through medieval alleyways, passages and tiny squares, virtually squeezing through the three foot wide Mårten Trotzigs gränd (alley), before ending at an iconic site in Old Town, soaking up Swedish history and picturesque buildings.

Stockholm Turn isolation into travel exploration with ToursByLocals (image unsplash)

ToursByLocals (www.toursbylocals.com) offers a one-hour Swedish Christmas live virtual tour for £172 per tour for up to 10 users. Guiding Services provided via an online video conference system. Tours can be customised according to interests.

Dingle bells

Hop over to the southwest of Ireland and be introduced to enchanting Dingle town by local expert Deirdre. In between discovering hidden gems and enjoying harbour views, guests will learn about southern Irish Christmas traditions as well as the importance of Dingle Bay. Get a taste of why Dingle is one of the top foodie towns in Ireland by meeting resident producers and be inspired by a mouth-watering local recipe to try at home this Christmas.

ToursByLocals (www.toursbylocals.com) offers a one-hour live virtual Christmas in Dingle tour for £88 per tour for up to 10 users. Guiding Services provided via an online video conference system.

Fairytale of New York

New York City celebrates Christmas like nowhere else and local guide Ibrahima who has been a licensd guide since 2007 is ready to share his passion from the heart of the city in Central Park. Transforming into a winter wonderland during the festive season, the park is one of the more peaceful spots, so grab a mug of hot chocolate at home and join Ibrahima on a virtual tour gazing at pretty lakes and waterfalls with highlights including Belvedere Castle and the Bow Bridge. Guests might even spot a horse and carriage for a magical Christmas touch.

Turn isolation into travel exploration with ToursByLocals Central Park New York (image unsplash)

ToursByLocals (www.toursbylocals.com) offers a one-hour-30-minute Central Park Hidden Gems live virtual tour for £140 per tour for up to 10 users or £218 per tour for up to 50 users. Guiding Services provided via an online video conference system.

Miles away from the Bleak Midwinter

Get as far away as possible with a virtual trip down under and delve deep into Melbourne’s vibrant Central Business District. Sit back and let local expert Leanne do the navigating and be wowed by impressive street art, 'hole in the wall' cafes selling the best coffee in town and hidden bars. Some of the best tucked-away shops can be found here with locally-made produce and mementos that will be the inspiration for future Christmas shopping. Escape the madness to the land down under this Christmas.

Turn isolation into travel exploration with ToursByLocals Melbourne Australia (image unsplash)

ToursByLocals (www.toursbylocals.com) offers a one-hour Melbourne’s Laneways and Arcades live virtual tour for £61 per tour for up to six users. Guiding Services provided via an online video conference system. Guests will also be provided with a digital resource pack to complement the tour itinerary after booking.