My Top Tour Guide Travel Tips

I’ve been travelling for years – both on my own and as a tour leader. Here I’ll share my top tour leader travel tips to get the most out of your travels and travel safely.

1 You Can’t Do Too Much Research and Preparation

Even if you are on a tour with a tour guide, you should still research your destination. You are going to a different world. To get the most out of it you need to understand the locals. Delve into local customs, traditions, and history before your trip to gain a deeper appreciation of each destination.

2 Pack light and smart

Bring versatile clothing and essentials, prioritizing comfort and functionality. Admittedly I’m still working on this one but there are areas you can cut down on. In hot places it is easier, lightweight clothes, sandals and a sarong which will double as a towel or pillow mean you can keep weight down. To cooler climbs – wear your jacket and boots onto the plane and pack plenty of layers.

3. Learn basic phrases

Even a few words in the local language can go a long way in fostering connections and showing respect. And there are plenty of phone apps now to help you learn or translate.

4. Stay flexible

Embrace spontaneity and be open to unexpected opportunities or changes in plans.

1. 5. Respect local customs

2. Observe cultural norms, dress codes, and etiquette to show appreciation for the places you visit. If visiting a sacred site, think how it would look to attend a place of worship at home in a skimpy bikini top or pair of shorts. You might be on holiday but the locals aren’t.

3. 6 Engage with locals

4. Strike up conversations, ask for recommendations, and immerse yourself in the community for authentic experiences. Women travelling alone will find that it is a good idea to seek out female company when travelling on public transport, and on your own you’ll discover more about the lives of local women. Eat the local food in local restaurants (often better!) and try a homestay or home cookery experience. Nothing creates bonds and friendship better than food!

5. 7 Stay safe

6. Stay informed about potential risks, take precautions, and trust your instincts while exploring unfamiliar surroundings. Research in advance, but also before you head off into town. Try to get your bearings and know where you are going, and where the safe parts of town are. Look confident and don’t show wealth or flash money around in public.
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8. 8 Explore off the beaten path

9. Don’t be a selfie vulture and take, take, take. Venture beyond tourist hotspots to discover hidden gems, lessen overcrowding and look for places which have a low footprint and are sustainable to give back while you travel.
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11. 9 Embrace technology

12. The days of travelling with maps and heavy guidebooks are long gone.
13. Use travel apps, maps, and translation tools to navigate smoothly and enhance your overall experience.
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15. 10 Keep an open mind

16. One of the great joys of travel is being flexible. Finding that unexpected restaurant in a side street. Going somewhere on a whim after a local recommendation. Embrace the unexpected, step out of your comfort zone, and approach each journey with curiosity and gratitude.