While traveling can be fun and exciting, it can also be challenging due to unfamiliar cultures and environments. This is why having a local guide during an overseas trip can make a big difference in enhancing one’s travel experience.
The idea to set up Tubudd came about after co-founder Annie Vu traveled to Europe on a solo trip and discovered hidden attractions from locals she befriended. To help travelers immerse themselves in an authentic hassle-free experience, Vietnamese startup Tubudd has come up with a digital platform that connects visitors with “local buddies.”
Founded in 2017, Tubudd links travelers with local guides and interpreters to create itineraries customized to their interests and preferences. Through the mobile app or website, users can choose a destination and book a guide based on their preferred activities.
The local guides partnering with Tubudd are selected from a rigorous screening process that includes identification checks, language proficiency, and letters of recommendation to ensure a safer experience for travelers. Most recently, the startup has introduced a new app feature connecting entrepreneurs who are looking to invest in Vietnam with interpreters to assist on business-related matters.
Tubudd’s other co-founders include CTO Ethan Dang and COO Anthony Cruickshank. The team has years of experience in sales, e-commerce, and marketing across Asia and Europe. Tubudd is backed by VSV Capital and TheVentures, which have taken part in pre-seed and seed rounds, respectively.
Tubudd applied to take part in the Project AsiaForward Alibaba Cloud Global Startup Accelerator Vietnam Demo Day.