The app titled “Learn From the Locals“ would feature local artists who are willing to share their perspectives and favorite local spots. Not only would this give a unique, “behind the scenes” point of view, but it would also support local artists.

Users can click on the town they are visiting and choose from various artists who have shared their commutes and experiences within their specific neighborhoods. This would show a map of the various locations along the way, giving tourists the chance to see these places in a new light. The way that people interact with the locations in their neighborhood add a lot of character and make them more human and special.

“Learn From the Locals”

Digital Experience

The idea for developing this app was inspired by my own illustrated map of my neighborhood. The map of Beacon Hill features the things I encounter on my commute, but they are specific to my experiences with them. The map itself folds down vertically as usual, but the stops on the map that are significant fold out to larger illustrations of the location with more information. In digital form, the user would be able to click on a spot on the map to see the artist’s interpretation of it and to read exactly what importance it has to this local’s life. This is a way of personalizing an area even more than just reading about it’s history.

This app would be a success because visitors value local culture. There is always more to a place than what meets the eye, and allowing people to have this insight is something that is really special. Giving tourists the “local” experience would also be genuine through the use of this app because of its independent nature. There is a community within, but it is not a guided tour. A lot of people don’t like going on tours such as the Boston Duck Boats because they feel they are “above” tourist culture. With “Learn From the Locals”, users are able to guide themselves and learn from a combination of their own experiences as well as those who know the area most.