Tripbod

Rather than wading through complaints about hotel food when you're planning your holiday, this site lets you connect directly with people who live in your chosen destination. These ‘tripbods' will answer your questions you have, give you a personalised map and itinerary and chat to you via Skype. The cost of the service ranges from £10.99 for the basic option to £35 for a one-week trip planner and £150 for six months. It's an interesting concept, superbly presented, and certainly worth considering if you want to travel off the beaten track.

Reviewed in: Issue 223 (24 September 2009)