Big Ben and Westminster Abbey old hat? Take a fresh look at London on an insider's tour.
Name: sidestory.co
What it does: Artists, writers, photographers, stylists and other creative types open their contact lists to create private tours of London for curious and discerning travelers. Select one of 28 experiences, get in touch with SideStory, which organizes the details, then meet your Insider for your experience.
What's hot: Touring with a local is not new, but it's a treat to explore the world of London antiques with TV host Mark Hill of BBC's "Antiques Roadshow" or glean fashion sense from stylist Hannah Teare as you walk through Mayfair and peruse boutiques popular with the royal family. Book at least two weeks in advance; however, it does try to accommodate last-minute requests.
What's not: The website might leave you longing for similar experiences in other cities. I'm keeping my fingers crossed that it doesn't take long for SideStory to expand to new destinations.
