An experienced tour guide can enhance your travel experience like few others. They can make the entire vacation rewarding and inspiring. In 2018, international arrivals in the US stood at 39.9 million. This number is expected to reach 45 million by 2022, according to figures released by Statista. No wonder, the travel industry is thriving, with thousands of adults being employed as guides each year.
A guide offers personalized plans, tells you the lesser known interesting facts and gives you an insight into the local history and culture, says an article by US Local Guide. Not sure how to choose one? Here are some useful tips.
1. Know Their Intentions
An average tour guide would be more interested to make money than serve your needs. But the one who is passionate about their job will help you have a fulfilling experience. Nothing will make them happier than offering relevant information and ensuring you have a memorable trip. Great hospitality, communication skills and courtesy are the key qualities to look for.
2. Seek Reviews
If you have friends who travel often, ask for suggestions. Recommendations from trusted sources can help you find an experienced guide. Along with all the qualifications, they must be able to manage both big and small crowds alike. Also, they should have great knowledge of the known as well as unknown yet significant places in the city or region.
3. Go for On Ground Guides
Instead of hiring someone online beforehand, prefer those who are present at the site. Most famous spots will only allow guides who have undergone rigorous training for months. They are most likely to have in-depth knowledge and well-researched facts about a particular destination.
4. Well Traveled Guide
Your tour guide should be one who is well travelled. Visiting the same country or state multiple times gives them great knowledge about the language, best restaurants and entertainment options. Extensive travelling makes them an expert in history, art, culture, cuisine and architecture as well. Most travel companies only let experienced guides accompany tourists for an enriching experience.
5. Friendly and Fun
A perfect tour guide is one who knows how to keep your spirits up. Humor is a great tool to cut stress and add some fun to the journey, says an article on Food Tour Pros. They should constantly make sure your vacation isn’t becoming boring.
So, before you plan your next vacation, chalk out an itinerary of all the places you want to see and find the best tour guide to take you through these sites.