Experience the True Flavor of Hawaii through Local Tours
Exploring a new destination can be an exciting, yet daunting task. But with the help of Tours by Locals, a platform connecting travelers with local guides, the journey becomes more immersive and enriching.
According to a survey of over 1,000 global travelers, locals emerged as the second most trusted source for travel recommendations. This trust was well-placed for a group of tourists who recently visited Oahu, Hawaii.
Alex, a local guide from Tours by Locals, drove the group to Ono Steaks and Shrimp Shack in Waimanalo. The small, unassuming restaurant is known for its authentic, no-frills dining experience. The group enjoyed perfectly portioned and seasoned fish tacos, accompanied by a hefty portion of mango salsa and slaw, which could be adjusted to taste.
Leonard's Bakery, established in 1952, is a beloved institution in Hawaii, known for its delectable malasadas (Portuguese donuts). However, Alex had another surprise in store. Ono Steaks and Shrimp Shack also offered garlic shrimp and coconut shrimp, which were delightful additions to the meal.
For those with a sweet tooth, Waiola Shave Ice, a neighborhood gem in Hawaii, serves shaved ice since 1940. Using five base flavors - strawberry, banana, blue vanilla, cherry, and grape - it reflects the local food culture in Hawaii.
But the culinary adventure didn't end there. Manoa, a bean-to-bar chocolate factory on Oahu, specializes in Hawaiian chocolate. Manoa offers chocolate education and tasting sessions, where visitors can learn about the sourcing and production of chocolate, as well as sample a variety of unique flavors.
Interestingly, 38.2% of travelers said they would travel more than an hour outside the tourist zone for a more authentic experience. This was evident in the group's decision to venture to these hidden gems, away from the usual tourist trails.
In fact, 58% of the group have spontaneously changed or considered changing their itinerary based on a local's tip. This flexibility and openness to new experiences made their trip to Oahu a memorable one.
66% of travelers say they'd skip a famous tourist attraction if a trusted local recommended a better, less crowded alternative. This approach, combined with the personalized, expert-led exploration offered by Tours by Locals, ensured the group had an authentic and unique travel experience in Oahu.
Tours by Locals has over 5000 phenomenal guides in more than 170 countries. By choosing local guides, travelers gain in-depth knowledge, personal stories, and access to unique sites, creating meaningful and authentic travel moments. Whether it's through private guided tours or live virtual tours via video conferencing, Tours by Locals ensures travelers access to meaningful and unique travel experiences.
- The travelers, led by local guide Alex, found a novel and enriching food-and-drink experience in Oahu, Hawaii, during their food tour, exploring local eateries like Ono Steaks and Shrimp Shack and Leonard's Bakery.
- The group's lifestyle on this trip was characterized by embracing local suggestions and experiences, such as visiting lesser-known locations, like Waiola Shave Ice and Manoa, a bean-to-bar chocolate factory, and indulging in authentic food offerings beyond tourist zones.
