Over the years I've come to savor the art of hiring locals to assist with navigation. Simple to do. I contact a local organization who often needs funds. I offer a reasonable donation along with this request:

"I'm visiting [city name] on [date] to [date]. I seek to hire a guide. Happy to pay [amount] to help me honor customs. Fluent in English. Can you share my request with someone you trust?"

I've met some amazing souls who I cherish to this day.