Tour Guiding Overview - Chapter 1

Systems Plus College Foundation - College of Hospitality and Tourism Management

• The college is located at MacArthur Highway, 2024 Balibago, Angeles City, Philippines 2009
• Phone number: (045) 322-7723 Loc. 221 | 0919-0692892
• Fax number: (045) 892-7489

Chapter 1: Overview on Tour Guiding and Escorting

• This chapter provides an overview of tour guiding and escorting.

Definition of a Tour Guide

• A tour guide conducts tours and has in-depth knowledge of the area.
• Their primary duty is to inform visitors.
• According to the 1987 Tour Guide Code, a tour guide is licensed by the local government and accredited by the Department of Tourism.
• They guide tourists (both domestic and foreign) for a fee or commission.
• Other names for tour guides include tourist guide (Europe), local guide, and city guide.

Types of Tour Guides

• Urban guides: Freelancers or employed by agencies; experts in the city's fields (e.g., architects, historians, artists, storytellers)
• Business or Industry guides: Guide corporate tours, educate visitors, explain the company philosophy. Trained in presentation skills.
• Adventure guides: Lead physically challenging activities (hiking, biking, kayaking); knowledgeable about terrain and wildlife. May provide equipment and instruction.
• Tour managers: Oversee group tours, ensuring smooth operation and that visitors receive what they paid for.
• Interpreters: Explain, translate, demonstrate, and reveal meanings and relationships in various areas (natural, cultural, recreational, historical).
• Escort Interpreters: Accompany foreign visitors, translate, and manage accommodations, transportation, meals, and events. Possess high language proficiency, excellent health, and broad educational background.
• Docents or Volunteer guides: Guide in various locations (visitor centers, museums, historic houses, churches).
• Historical guides: Show visitors historical sites (battlefields, ruins, temples).
• Nature guides: Guide visitors through nature areas like wilderness areas, focusing on subjects like ornithology or geology.
• Staff guides/ Driver guides: Work for travel agencies, drive tours, or provide guidance while driving.
• Inbound tour operators: Develop and market tours showcasing their home country for overseas tourists.

Role of a Tour Guide

• Planning: Create itineraries, research destinations, coordinate transportation, and manage accommodations.
• Leading: Guide groups to attractions, providing commentary and answering questions.
• Communication: Explain clearly, listen carefully to guest concerns, and address them effectively.
• Ensuring safety: Brief guests on safety procedures, particularly in unsafe areas.
• Providing Information: Detail the history, culture, and geography of the destination.
• Assisting: Provide logistical help arranging entries to attractions and recommend places to eat.
• Providing Feedback: Share constructive criticism, assess what is working and areas that need improvement.
• Providing First Aid: Provide basic medical assistance when needed.

The Public Relations Representative

• Guides are responsible in some areas for projecting a specific image or political message.
• Some guides are trained to answer controversial questions.

The Host

• Travel is a sociable activity and a tour guide can act as a companion, mediator, advocate, entertainer, or concierge.
• Tour guides can act as storytellers.

The Conduit

• The guide's role is crucial as a link and channel.
• It is essential in promoting local culture and experiences.

This quiz covers Chapter 1 of the Tour Guiding and Escorting course, focusing on the fundamental concepts of tour guiding. It explores the definition of a tour guide, their responsibilities, and types of tour guides. Assess your understanding of the important aspects of this profession.