Here's a good way to get to know the real Malaysia

The Bentong market is one of the many places travellers are brought to, to interact with the locals in this town in Pahang. Photos: Lokalocal

It's all about seeking those “#authentic” travel experiences in the age of Instagram – and what’s more genuine than trips designed by, and taken with, a local?

Petaling Jaya-based startup Loka­local (https://www.lokalocal.com/) takes a cue from the emerging aspiration and pairs travellers with what they call “local experts” who lead their own trips. The idea, according to Lokalocal co-founder Chin Yoon Khen, is to create a virtual marketplace that lists itineraries with unique local perspectives.