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2023

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Frequently Asked Questions

  • Introduction

    If you're looking to get the most out of your vacation experience, then hiring a tour guide can be a smart choice. Learning about new places and seeing how the locals live are just a few of the reasons travelers hire tour guides. There are local tours catering to almost any interest, too, from browsing art galleries to adventuring in the great outdoors. Whether you'd like to tour with a group or prefer one-on-one guidance from your own private escort, you've got plenty of options to choose from. Here are answers to common questions about what to expect on different kinds of tours and how to choose the best local tour for your travel plans.

  • What is a tour guide?

    Tour guides provide information that helps travelers learn more about the place they're visiting. Guides can give tours of museums, scenic locations, historical monuments, and many other points of interest. Some give walking tours, while others hold tours on a bus or boat.

  • What is the difference between escorted and guided tours?

    Escorted tours are an all-inclusive experience led by a tour director who oversees the trip from beginning to end. They often include transportation, hotel stays, sightseeing activities, tickets to attractions, and meals. Guided tours are provided by various local representatives and don't typically escort travelers to each destination, allowing for more flexibility throughout the day.

  • What is a guided city tour?

    Guided city tours are for travelers who want to professional guidance as they explore a city. They're often given by locals who are knowledgeable about the area and can help visitors find restaurants, shops, and other interesting places off the beaten path. These tours can also take travelers to the most popular attractions a city has to offer.

  • What happens on a guided tour?

    On a tour, guides describe the location in detail, explain its importance, and answer questions visitors may have. Local guides may tell personal stories about what it's like to live there, giving travelers a unique perspective they can't get anywhere else. Guides also look out for the safety of guests and make sure the group stays organized so no one gets left behind or lost.

  • Why are guided tours good?

    For many travelers, exploring a new place on their own can be a bit overwhelming. Guided tours remove the guesswork by showing visitors the top sights in a streamlined and efficient way. These tours can also steer people away from dangerous areas and help provide a sense of safety for visitors.

  • What is a private tour guide?

    Private tour guides give tours to one party at a time, allowing for more customized service and flexible scheduling. Guests can choose which sites they'd like to see and how much time to spend at each destination. Private tours are often taken by families who need special accommodations for small children, the elderly, or the disabled.

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