When it comes to defining a tour guide, the Department of Tourism plays a crucial role. In simple terms, a tour guide is someone who provides assistance, information, and cultural, historical or contemporary heritage interpretation to people on organized tours. However, the Department of Tourism has a more detailed definition for this profession.
According to the Department of Tourism, a tour guide is an individual who leads groups of tourists through various places of interest in a professional manner. They have extensive knowledge about the history, culture, customs and traditions of the places they are guiding visitors through. Tour guides should also possess excellent communication skills and be able to engage with their visitors in an informative and interesting manner.
The Department of Tourism further categorizes tour guides based on their expertise and qualifications. There are four types of tour guides recognized by the Department of Tourism:
1. Regional Tour Guide:
A regional tour guide is someone who specializes in guiding visitors through specific regions or areas within a country. They have extensive knowledge about the geography, history and culture of that region.
2. Site Tour Guide:
A site tour guide is someone who specializes in guiding visitors through specific tourist sites such as museums, historical buildings or natural landmarks. They possess in-depth knowledge about the site they are guiding visitors through.
3. National Tour Guide:
A national tour guide is someone who possesses extensive knowledge about the entire country they are guiding visitors through. They have an in-depth understanding of the country’s culture, history and geography.
4. International Tour Guide:
An international tour guide is someone who specializes in leading groups of tourists across different countries or regions around the world. They possess extensive knowledge about different cultures, languages and traditions.
Regardless of their specialization, all tour guides must meet certain qualifications set by the Department of Tourism to practice legally as a professional guide within their country. They must have completed a recognized training program or course and obtained a license or certification from the Department of Tourism.
In conclusion, being a tour guide is not just about leading groups of tourists through various places of interest. It requires extensive knowledge, excellent communication skills and a passion for sharing information about culture, history and heritage. The Department of Tourism plays a crucial role in defining this profession and ensuring that all professional tour guides meet the necessary qualifications to provide visitors with an informative and enjoyable experience.