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Your safety is our top priority. Learn how to stay safe while exploring with Local Guide, whether you're a traveler discovering new places or a guide sharing your expertise.
At Local Guide, we're committed to creating a safe, trustworthy platform where travelers and guides can connect with confidence. While we implement various safety features and guidelines, safety is a shared responsibility.
This Safety Center provides essential tips, best practices, and resources to help you make informed decisions and stay safe throughout your Local Guide experience. Please read these guidelines carefully and always prioritize your safety.
We encourage guides to verify their identity and credentials. Look for verified badges when choosing a guide.
All communications are logged within our platform, providing a secure record and enabling us to assist with any disputes.
Our transparent review system helps build trust. Both travelers and guides can leave honest feedback after each tour.
Our support team is available around the clock to assist with safety concerns, emergencies, or any issues that arise.
Follow these essential safety guidelines to ensure a secure and enjoyable experience when booking tours with local guides.
Read reviews, check ratings, and review the guide's profile thoroughly before booking. Look for verified badges and consistent positive feedback.
Always inform a friend or family member about your tour details, including the guide's name, meeting location, and expected return time.
Choose tours that start in well-populated, public areas. Avoid meeting in isolated or unfamiliar locations, especially for first-time bookings.
Ensure your phone is fully charged and you have local emergency numbers saved. Consider carrying a portable charger for longer tours.
If something feels wrong or uncomfortable, trust your gut. You have the right to end the tour early and leave any situation that makes you uneasy.
Keep all communication within the Local Guide platform. This creates a record and helps us assist you if any issues arise.
As a guide, you play a crucial role in ensuring safe, memorable experiences. Follow these best practices to protect yourself and your guests.
Review traveler profiles and communicate clearly before confirming bookings. Set clear expectations about the tour itinerary and requirements.
Establish and maintain appropriate group sizes that you can safely manage. Don't exceed your comfort level or local regulations.
Choose well-traveled routes and avoid dangerous areas. Be aware of local conditions, weather, and any potential hazards along your tour path.
Always carry a charged phone, first aid kit, and know emergency contact numbers. Have a backup plan for unexpected situations.
Keep necessary licenses, permits, and insurance up to date. Document your tours and maintain records of bookings and communications.
Maintain professional relationships with travelers. Avoid sharing excessive personal information or engaging in inappropriate behavior.
Be cautious if you encounter any of these red flags. If something doesn't feel right, trust your instincts and contact our support team.
Guide asks you to pay outside the platform
Requests to meet in isolated or private locations for first meeting
Pressures you to book immediately without time to review
Has consistently negative reviews or no reviews at all
Asks for excessive personal information
Changes tour details significantly after booking
Refuses to communicate through the platform
Makes you feel uncomfortable or unsafe
Stay Informed: Be aware of local health guidelines and travel restrictions in your destination.
Communicate Health Status: If you're feeling unwell, reschedule your tour. Both travelers and guides should communicate any health concerns.
Respect Preferences: Some users may prefer outdoor tours, smaller groups, or specific safety measures. Communicate and respect these preferences.
Hygiene Practices: Maintain good hygiene practices, including regular hand washing and carrying hand sanitizer during tours.
Travel Insurance: We strongly recommend that travelers purchase comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and personal liability.
Guide Insurance: Guides should obtain appropriate liability insurance and any required professional licenses or permits for their tours. Check local regulations in your area.
Platform Limitations: Local Guide is a marketplace platform connecting travelers and guides. We do not provide insurance coverage for tours or activities. Users are responsible for their own safety and insurance needs.
If you experience or witness any safety issues, inappropriate behavior, or violations of our community guidelines, please report them immediately. We take all reports seriously and investigate thoroughly.
If you feel unsafe during a tour, remove yourself from the situation immediately and contact local emergency services if needed.
Report incidents through your booking page or contact our support team within 48 hours with detailed information.
Report suspicious profiles, scams, or policy violations through the report button on user profiles or listings.
In case of emergency, always contact local emergency services first. Then notify Local Guide support.
Call your local emergency number:
911 (US) | 112 (EU) | 999 (UK)
24/7 Safety Hotline:
+1-800-SAFE-GUIDE
safety@localguide.com
While we work hard to create a safe platform, your safety ultimately depends on the choices you make. Stay informed, trust your instincts, and don't hesitate to reach out if you need help. Together, we can build a community where everyone feels safe to explore and share their passion for travel.