How to get the REAL feeling of living in the places that you travel to

It is almost imperative to find someone prior to your travels to show you around if you wish to gain an inside look as to what it might be like living in the city in which you are visiting.
If you are a history buff, cultural guru, a cafe junkie or a plain "foodie"; knowing someone will make your experience simply delightful.
Prior to my visit to Prague, I was advised by two people that I knew living in the city as to where to stay and what types of clothes to pack. I was also given a great estimate of entertainment budget. They were able to help me navigate how to exchange money and not get taken by the taxi drivers. This made EVERYTHING about my trip utter bliss. There were no surprises other than the sites and people that I got to enjoy for my ten day adventure.
I worked with these people. Most of us work in a global company. I dare you to ping someone that lives in the area that you wish to travel. You will be surprised as to how honored they feel to help you out. We all take pride in where we choose to live and when someone thinks of us as a helper, we typically step up to the task at hand successfully.
For those of you that do not work in a global company. Use the internet forums and blogs that are out there. Steer clear of the travel agents in disguise, but find someone that knows the local language and that can guide you properly.
It will be fun for both of you. And by all means, share some of your photos of their wonderful city/country with them upon your return.
I was able to travel to Prague and see everything that I wanted to see and gain a great feeling for what it must be like to live and work in that city. I will be forever grateful to my newfound friends and colleagues.