The Local Tourist began way back in 2002 as a guide to Chicago’s River North neighborhood. The site grew, extending to the entire Chicagoland area, quickly becoming a recognized resource for the Windy City. In recent years, TLT has expanded its reach to explore unique destinations, focusing on culture, background, beauty, and sheer awesomeness.
Subjects that get nearly equal levels of obsession include, but are not limited to, anything outdoors, anything that can be eaten, art, history, architecture, and anything with an ABV above 3%. There’s no subtlety and no drama, but there is definitely a whole lotta kitsch and unmitigated, unabashed enthusiasm.
The Local Tourist’s Founder and Publisher is an Emmy-winning author and content creator with a penchant for storytelling and a keen eye. She’s appeared in the Chicago Tribune and Crain’s Chicago and on WGN, WLUP, and WCIU’s You and Me and The Jam.
She was one of the founding bloggers of ChicagoNow, was the Chicago Expert for Answers.com, and is a contributor to 1000 Travel Tips. Comfortable in front of a microphone and a camera, she’s spoken on entrepreneurship, marketing, and motivation at several panels and conferences. In 2017 she published Two Lane Gems, Vol. 1 and, in 2018, published Two Lane Gems, Vol. 2.
Work With The Local Tourist
Whether you’re looking to promote a product or service, learn social media, or inspire travelers to visit your destination, TLT can help.
Sponsored posts
Theresa will write a custom article for you that’s designed to get people excited about your product, service, destination, or event. Each sponsored article is incorporated seamlessly into our content and is shared repeatedly on social media.
Social media campaigns
The Local Tourist has a reach of over 375,000 through Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and Pinterest. Promotion can include custom updates, product and brand messages, participate in your travel chat, and host contests and giveaways.
Destination marketing
If you’re a destination you’ve come to the right place. Theresa can either participate in a scheduled FAM/Press trip, or an exclusive multi-day tour. Multiple aspects of your destination will be covered, with shares on social media, photographs that will highlight your best, and articles covering all aspects of her visit. She will cover:
- Destination Overview
- Accommodations (hotels, B&B’s, campgrounds, resorts, etc.)
- Dining & Nightlife
- Local flair
- Activities, Festivals, and Things To Do
Your destination will receive placement on The Local Tourist’s Destinations section, so people searching for places to go can easily find everything you have to offer. An exclusive option is a custom, inclusive downloadable e-book guide for your destination. BONUS: During the visit, Theresa can provide a social media training session with your local businesses before or after touring your destination. Rates vary based on what is requested, and all travel expenses should be covered.
Product and Service Reviews
Theresa is adamant about providing honest opinions with integrity. The Local Tourist’s audience knows this, so they trust TLT’s recommendations. Your product or service will receive an honest, ethical review that’s between 300 to 600 words.
Brand ambassadorship
Looking for a long-term relationship? If Theresa loves what you do, she’s not afraid of commitment! Contact below to discuss a brand ambassadorship.
Travel Photography
Theresa’s passion for capturing places and experiences with words is matched by her desire to show that beauty through images. All photographs on this site are Theresa’s (unless otherwise stated). Her images are available for licensing, and any destination marketing includes custom photography.
Content provider
With a degree in Journalism and several years of creating content for The Local Tourist as well as NBC5 Chicago, Answers.com, 1000TravelTips.com, and more, Theresa can deliver a professional message for your company’s blog and social media channels.
Social media training
If you want to learn how to reach more people through social media, Theresa can help. She’s built engaged, active communities, and she’ll share what she’s learned with you. She’s taught others to grow their followings one-on-one and in group settings and she’ll customize a training that fits your needs.