Local Friends isn’t just another platform, it’s a community.
A local community network.
Fostering a Community
Local Friends wants to offer more than just an OTA, we want to help foster a community of local operators. We have created a one-of-a-kind network of tour operators that meets virtually monthly and in-person each quarter.
Colleagues vs. Competitors
After a tough year of COVID-19 restrictions, we believe that it’s more important than ever to join forces vs. trying to reopen on our own. Join the Local Friends community to take part in the organic referral network of operator friends.
Packages & partnerships
With a strong tour operator community, we are now creating referral channels that are stronger than ever. Create referral opportunities and tour packages with other local independent tour operators.
Tools & services that actually help.
Supporting small businesses.
Small Business Portal
Local Friends has built a custom business portal to help support small businesses with a variety of tools and services. This allows you to find the tools and people you need to help you grow your business on your own schedule.
Industry Insights
We want to help other small businesses have a better understanding of the ever-changing tourism industry. Local Friends offers data, industry insights, local updates, platform reviews & info that is relevant to your business.
Helpful Tools & Tips
In our small business portal, Local Friends currently offers message boards, small business tools, COVID-19 related information, travel guide submissions, an events page, and much more with new features coming soon.
Finally, a honest marketplace.
A local platform you can trust.
Fair Commission Rates
Many OTAs have an unfair commission model. Whether they charge more for a higher ranking, listing other products on your business page, or just charge an arm and a leg, it’s about time for a fair commission rate for all businesses.
Never Pay-to-Play
Most OTAs and marketplace platforms are large publically traded companies that are solely focused on profit. We believe in providing the best possible services for customers while providing a fair playing field for operators.
Quality Over Quantity
Local Friends is growing our experience network with a quality focus first. Instead of onboarding large corporate operators, we handpicked top-rated independent operators to provide the best selection SF has to offer.
Get seen in a whole new way.
Marketing & promotions that actually help.
Travel Guide & Tips
At the end of 2021, Local Friends will be launching our locally-focused travel guide for visitors. This will offer tips and articles to help visitors find the best local spots, all while featuring the local operators at Local Friends.
Marketing Materials
We want to do more than just offer a marketplace for operators. Local Friends will be providing materials and tools to help promote your business and build a stronger referral network amongst local tour operators.
Cross-promotion Network
With our travel guide articles and marketing materials, our goal is to help provide the opportunity to cross-promote local operators in SF. Offer referral discounts, recommendations, and more through the Local Friends network.
Business Testimonials
“Local Friends has been great support during the pandemic. Getting together during the isolation was a godsend. I'm looking forward to now regrow our business with this unique alliance!”
- Joseph | Emperor Norton's Fantastic San Francisco Time Machine
“Local Friends meetups have been a lifeline for me the past year. They are a great chance to trade ideas with other small, local operators and they help me feel like I am part of something bigger."
— Eric | Fogcutter Tours (formally Adventure Tours SF)
“This has been a great experience. It's good to join together and fight the behemoths.”
— Reed | Small Car Big Time Tours