Authors

Alex Copenguy, founder of Localsinsider.com, loves exploring cities on foot, finding cozy, historic boutique hotels, and avoiding tourist spots. He’s passionate about Scandinavian simple yet functional design, contemporary art, and enjoys mussels with fries and cold prosecco. A fan of saunas and banyas, he always seeks out a good male massage when traveling.

Anton Obrezchikov is a wine journalist and expert with extensive experience in the wine industry. He is the author of articles for publications like Afisha Daily, Simple Wine News, and Locals Insider, where he explores various aspects of wine culture and the industry. Anton is also a professional wine taster and a regular jury member at prestigious wine competitions.

Denis Boyarinov is a prominent music journalist and pop culture writer with 20+ years of experience, authoring books on Viktor Tsoi and the Soviet record label “Melodiya,” and currently exploring the music scene in Buenos Aires.

Gosha Slugin is a journalist and editor who has worked for the international magazine Time Out and as a PR specialist at the British Higher School of Art and Design. He now lives with his family in Alanya, Turkey, where he organizes movie nights and runs a blog about the vibrant local life.

Hannah Forrest is a travel and marketing writer with over 11 years of experience crafting contentfor brands like Best Western and Apartments.com. She’s also a published author and a contributor to Chicken Soup for the Soul.

Liza Birger is a journalist, literary critic, and curator of “Poltory Komnaty,” the only Russian-language bookstore in Istanbul. Since moving to Istanbul in 2010, she has contributed to travel guides, authored numerous articles, led countless tours, and uncovered many hidden facets of the city.

Martin Danemaq, author at Localsinsider.com, was born in Thy, Northern Jutland, Denmark, and has traveled widely, now residing in Malta. With a background in pharmacy, he combines his scientific mindset with an interest in history, social sciences, and authentic local experiences. He prefers exploring cities on foot, drawn to the digital nomad lifestyle and the idea that living in a place for weeks offers a deeper understanding than typical tourism. Martin is fond of sourdough bread, simple, high-quality food, craft beer, hiking, European cinema, contemporary art, and live performances. He’s also interested in how different societies are structured—from politics and tax systems to pensions and social norms—and how these elements shape everyday life. Next up is Buenos Aires and Latin America.

Writing about travel, fashion, and creative industries. Contributor to ASW and Matador Network, and ghostwriter for top travel influencers. Studied fashion and media at the University of the Arts London, with a background in e-commerce content management. Passionate about travel, music, and technology, bringing a unique, creative voice shaped by monthly travels and diverse writing projects.

Rebecca Puttock is a luxury travel expert with 13+ years in bespoke travel for HNWI and adventure seekers, CEO of a travel concierge service, and a content writer with a global network for exclusive, tailor-made experiences.

Sophie Campbell is a traveler and writer from the UK, with 10 years of exploring Europe, Australasia, and the Americas under her belt. Armed with a BA in English and Education, she’s written for travel blogs, charity magazines, and runs a popular Instagram about dog-friendly travel and Substack.

Vyacheslav Gnedchik is a soloist with the Hungarian National Ballet in Budapest. Born in Minsk, he trained at the renowned Vaganova Academy of Russian Ballet and previously held the position of principal dancer at the Mariinsky Theatre. Known for his leading roles in “The Nutcracker,” “Swan Lake,” and “The Sleeping Beauty,” Gnedchik has toured extensively across Europe, Asia, and the US. Since 2023, he has been captivating audiences as a principal dancer with the Hungarian State Opera.

Yakov Lysenko is a professional wine journalist based in Paris who loves photography and travel.