Become a local at Big Apple Greeter

It's always great having friends in the places you visit. Why? Because you get that local flavor you'd otherwise not get on your own. At Big Apple Greeter you will be paired with a local "friend" so you see the city from their unique perspective. Here's what their website has to say about the program.

Big Apple Greeter is a non-profit organization that matches visitors with friendly and enthusiastic New Yorkers who are happy to share the city they love. A wonderful experience for families, friends and individuals traveling solo, Greeters help travelers feel welcome and get more from their stay in the Big Apple.

Big Apple Greeter’s services are offered FREE OF CHARGE, and there is a NO TIPPING POLICY.

The New Yorkers who serve as Greeters are all volunteers, come from varied backgrounds and can welcome visitors in 22 languages. The office staff, also mostly volunteers, matches Greeters to visitors according to language, neighborhoods requested, and interests, when possible.

Keep in mind that these are unpaid volunteers and not tour guides. What you will get is a local New Yorker's take on the neighborhoods they know and love along with tips on little known favorites like restaurants, shops and things to do. You're also likely to get a glimpse of some neighborhoods you might otherwise not know about. So put on your adventurer's hat and head out on the town with your new local "friend".

Joy@touriststop