DIY City Guides

When Benjamin Franklin wrote “Guests, like fish, begin to smell after three days,” he summed up the problem those with a busy schedule face when trying to keep out-oftown visitors entertained. Create your own guidebook or folder of local knowledge and your guests can choose their own adventures while you’re unavailable.

GENERAL INFORMATION

At the front of your guidebook, list essential phone numbers like:

● emergency numbers including police, fire station and ambulance.

● your home, mobile and work numbers.

● the numbers to ring for lost or stolen credit cards.

● if you or your guests have pets, the contact number and address of the local vet.

GETTING AROUND

Help your guests by mapping out some options for travel, including:

● phone numbers for taxi services.

● options, prices and locations to purchase tickets or travel cards (add in a prepaid card to get them started).

● maps of the local bus and train routes plus a list of the relevant train lines or bus numbers. Highlighting your local station or bus stop on the map will make travelling even easier for your visitors.

● road maps of the local and broader area for visitors exploring by car or on foot.

OUT AND ABOUT

While official guidebooks are often packed with ideas for major attractions, try adding some of your own unique suggestions:

● personal tips or reviews about popular local galleries, museums, animal parks, and places of interest.

● a list for shopping enthusiasts, covering good shopping centres, bookshops, clothing stores, and antique shops. Making note of local boutiques, markets and second-hand stores will give your guidebook a personal touch.

● a list of your favourite cafés and restaurants, taking note of eateries that cater for special dietary needs such as vegan or gluten-free.