Dreaming of a career where you can travel the world, meet new people, and share your passion for different cultures? Becoming a tour guide might be the perfect path for you. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of what it takes to succeed in this exciting and rewarding profession.
When the topic of traveling for a living comes up, the many diverse avenues often come to mind. The role of a tour guide or tour director is an exciting way to see the world and get paid.
Before transitioning into travel blogging and journalism, I had the enriching experience of working as an international tour director and guide. This firsthand experience allowed me to learn the intricacies of leading groups through some of the world’s most iconic destinations. If you know what to anticipate, this job can be a dream come true. I essentially earned a master’s degree in European history, and frequently found myself acting as a makeshift therapist for travelers. We even had our own inside jokes, such as “QNE” for Questions Never End.
While there’s no single path to landing your dream job as a tour guide, gathering insights from experienced professionals can significantly increase your chances of success.
I had the opportunity to speak with Carrie Fitchett, a highly sought-after tour director with Educational Travel Adventures, to gain valuable insights into the realities of her profession. “When I researched jobs that said ‘TRAVEL FOR A LIVING!,’ they were all things where people go, stay in the hotel, drink bad coffee all day, and wear heels,” she explained. “I didn’t want to do that or sit in an office with a headset and sell places I’ve never been to. That’s why this job made sense.”
Tour Director vs. Tour Guide: Understanding the Difference
It’s crucial to understand the distinction between a tour director and a tour guide.
- Tour Director: Responsible for the overall logistics, confirmations, planning, problem-solving, and group dynamics of a tour. They also provide historical and cultural commentary.
- Tour Guide: Offers specific narration about a particular place, often joining the tour group for a limited time, such as a few hours.
Local guiding is a great way to get your feet wet, especially if you prefer to return home each night. There are also opportunities for longer-term contract work on cruises, ranging from large ocean liners to smaller river cruises.
The Perks of Being a Tour Guide
If you’re feeling stuck in your current job, becoming a tour guide offers a chance to experience something different every day. This career can take you to incredible events worldwide, such as the Olympics or the World Cup.
Tour director Carrie Fitchett at work, showcasing the engaging and dynamic nature of the job.
“It’s the ridiculous things I get to do every single day—whether it’s museums, shows, or eating dinner in the Eiffel Tower—but it’s also the dynamic of people,” Fitchett explained. “When someone waits their whole life to go to Paris, I get to take them. It’s the look on their face as they experience it for the first time, and I’m a part of that memory.”
The Challenges to Consider
Most tour directors work on a freelance basis, which comes with its own set of challenges. These include the need for independent health insurance and the initial struggle to secure enough work. You’ll also experience sleep deprivation as you confirm the next day’s activities and study commentary.
“True colors come out on tour,” Fitchett noted. “Sometimes people are ungrateful or bossy or think they know more about a place than you… But even if I think it’s the silliest question I’ve ever heard in my life, I have to answer it so they feel good about it.” Your schedule may require you to be away from home for extended periods, potentially causing you to miss important events.
The Value of Training Programs
Consider enrolling in a training program to gain the necessary skills and knowledge. The International Tour Management Institute (ITMI) is a reputable program that offers two-week trainings and an annual symposium to connect tour companies with guides. While the tuition can be expensive, it can pay off in the long run.
“The money will come back to you in your first couple of tours,” Fitchett said. “Plus, I made amazing friends and priceless contacts.” The International Guide Academy and various online options are also available.
Working with Adults vs. Students
Many tour directors choose to lead both adult and student tours. Student tours offer opportunities to earn income during the spring in locations like Boston, New York, and D.C., when adult tours are less frequent. Adult tours, typically scheduled in the summer and fall, can take you around the globe.
“With kids, you affect and change lives. Maybe they’ve never traveled and you show them what’s out there,” Fitchett explained. In contrast, adult tours are often more relaxed, but you may face unexpected questions or challenges.
Beyond the Road: Alternative Career Paths
If you experience burnout or tire of constant travel, your career in the tour industry doesn’t have to end. There are behind-the-scenes roles available at tour companies, such as product development, sales, event planning, and social media.
Is Being a Tour Guide Right for You?
“For this job, you have to love every part of travel and know you will be living out of a suitcase and never sleeping,” Fitchett said. “But I absolutely love what I do, and I don’t need the stability right now.” Timing is crucial. “In the meantime, love the job you have!” she advised. “Try a class, start locally, and talk to as many people as possible who have done it or are doing it.”
In conclusion, pursuing a career as a tour guide demands passion, resilience, and a genuine love for travel. By understanding the roles, weighing the pros and cons, seeking proper training, and building valuable connections, you can transform your dream of traveling for a living into a fulfilling reality. Explore local opportunities, network with experienced guides, and never stop learning. Your adventure awaits!
