It’s a common idea:
“If someone’s local, they must be the best person to show you around.”
And yes, locals know the city better than most.
They know shortcuts, real prices, unlisted spots. They’ve seen how neighborhoods change over time. They know where the good bread is, what to avoid during rush hour, which streets feel safe at night.
But being a local and being a great guide aren’t the same thing.
They’re completely different skills.
Plenty of locals are great at living in their city, but not great at helping someone else feel at home in it.
Some will just show you what they like.
Some assume you’ll enjoy the same things they do.
Some are friendly, but not curious. Helpful, but not adaptable.
And if you’ve ever felt like you were just being led from place to place without really connecting, this might be why.
Because being a great guide isn’t about the number of recommendations.
It’s about knowing how to filter the entire city through the lens of you.
It’s about listening. Paying attention. Picking up on mood, energy, subtle signals.