• September 25, 2008

Travelers on the hunt for more "authentic" experiences in their destination locales can turn to a new service called Localyte.com. The San Mateo, Calif.-based Web site features profiles of local travel gurus, business owners, and regular people eager to help visitors find the best restaurants, nightlife hubs and other attractions. Currently, there are over 1,200 registered "localytes" from over 115 countries.

"Connecting with locals is difficult but rewarding, especially in a new destination where you don't know anyone," said Graham Rasmussen, Localyte.com's co-founder and vice president of products. "On Localyte.com, travelers benefit from up-to-date local insider knowledge which they typically can't get from other travelers or printed travel guides."--Tameka Kee