While sitting on the patio of an outdoor cafe in Havana last week, I noticed a woman reading Lonely Planet’s Cuba guide. Wondering how she would get outside the guidebook for an “authentic” experience, I asked her what resources she would consult if she wanted to try experiencing Cuba like a local. “Good question,” she said.

The question sparked an interesting conversation about the limited information available for travelers who aren’t interested in excursion buses or guided tours of overrun and overrated sites.

Fortunately, a notable exception is the compelling website, Dine With Locals. Started by a couple in Colorado, Dine With Locals matches locals and travelers around the world as hosts and guests in the ultimate form of cultural exchange: the sharing of a meal. Check out the site before your next trip!

Community Connection: Check out some of Matador’s great content about food and eating on the road:
Ross Tabak’s 7 Secrets for Eating Like a Local

Ian MacKenzie’s interview with Derek Wallace of OrganicReform.org

Photo: gilmarcil