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How to Become a Tour Guide

By Alyciah Beavers

Published: February 28, 2024

If you’ve been wondering how to embark on a fulfilling journey as a tour guide, this article is your roadmap to a career that lets you explore the world while sharing its wonders with others. Here, we discuss the role of a tour guide, how to become one, and some of the tour guide skills you should possess. Plus, we’ll delve into what the tour guide salary is like, helping you make an informed decision about this exciting profession.

Career Summary

Tour guide salary.

Are you wondering how much a tour guide earns in the United States? Well, the average tour guide salary is $40K per year. However, there is an estimated addition of $18K each year in bonuses, commissions, profit sharing, and tour guide tips from clients.

According to Glassdoor , here is the breakdown per each level:

• Entry Salary (US$45k)
• Median Salary (US$59k)
• Executive Salary (US$79k)

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the average wage in the US is $61,900, meaning that tour guide salary falls behind the national average of other occupations.

What does a Tour Guide do?

A tour guide, also called a tour leader or local guide, plays a considerable role in promoting and preserving a town, city, organization, or country’s historical and cultural heritage. These are certified professionals licensed to lead other people on trips and tours while providing an informative, educational, and enjoyable experience.

Tour Guide Career Progression

• Entry-Level Tour Guide :  Leading basic tours, assisting with logistics, and providing introductory information to tourists.
• Tour Guide :  Leading a variety of tours, providing in-depth information, and ensuring an enjoyable experience for tourists.
• Senior Tour Guide : Taking on more complex and specialized tours, training and supervising junior guides, and often acting as a point of contact for clients.
• Specialized Tour Guide : Specialized tour guides focus on specific niches or interests within the industry, such as history, art, adventure, wildlife, or culinary tours.
• Tour Manager : They oversee the logistics and operations of multiple tours and ensure that all aspects of a tour, including transportation, accommodations, and activities, run smoothly.
• Tour Company Owner or CEO : At the highest level, a tour company’s executive director oversees the entire business. They set the company’s vision, strategy, and direction, manage financial aspects, and make critical decisions impacting its growth and success.

The Pros and Cons of Working as a Tour Guide

• You will live your dream and share your exploration and traveling passion with others.
• It is an opportunity to interact and relate with people from diverse walks of life and learn about different cultures.
• You are constantly learning about the history, culture, and geography of the places you guide.
• It is an opportunity to assist people in having memorable experiences and creating lasting memories.
• Tour guides may have to give the same tour multiple times daily, leading to repetition and potential monotony.
• Career growth and advancement opportunities may be limited for tour guides, as it’s often a front-line, customer-facing role.
• Sometimes, tour guides must work in various weather conditions, which can be uncomfortable and challenging.
• Guides may need to work with tourists who speak different languages, creating communication challenges.

Useful Tour Guide Skills to Have

• Communication Skills
• Interpersonal Skills
• Public speaking Skills
• Storytelling Skills
• Multilingual Skills

Popular Tour Guide Specialties

• Historical and Cultural Tours
• Culinary Tours
• Wildlife and Eco-Tours
• Religious and Spiritual Tours

Do I Need A Degree To Become A Tour Guide?

You only need a high school diploma to become a tour guide. However, different tour guide jobs need a degree. For example, to become a tour guide in a museum, you might require a degree in history-related fields.

Here are some key points to consider in determining whether to get a degree or not:

• Location and Regulations : The requirements for becoming a tour guide can vary by country and region. Some places may have specific regulations or licensing requirements for tour guides, which may or may not include the need for a degree. It’s essential to research the rules in your specific area.
• Type of Tours : The tours you want to guide can also influence the educational requirements. For example, leading historical or cultural tours may require more specialized knowledge and may be more likely to necessitate a degree in history , art, or a related field.
• Tour Company or Organization : Some tour companies or organizations may have specific requirements. Some may prioritize experience, personality, and local knowledge over formal education, while others may prefer candidates with relevant degrees or certifications.
• Tourist Demands : Understanding the needs and interests of the tourists you plan to guide is crucial. Some tourists may prefer guides with in-depth knowledge, which a degree can provide, while others may prioritize guides that offer a unique and engaging experience.
• Language Skills: Fluency in one or more languages can be a valuable asset for a tour guide. Language proficiency may sometimes be more important than a formal degree.
• Local Knowledge : For tours in a specific location, deep local knowledge, history, and cultural insights are often precious. This kind of expertise doesn’t necessarily require a formal degree.

What are the Benefits of Getting a Degree in Tourism?

Getting a degree in tourism can be important for several reasons, depending on your career goals and the specific context of the tourism industry in your region.

Here are some reasons why obtaining a degree in tourism can be beneficial:

• Knowledge and Expertise : A degree in tourism provides a comprehensive understanding of the local culture, history, geography, and other relevant information about the destinations you’ll be guiding people through. This knowledge can enhance the quality of your tours and make you a more informative and engaging guide.
• Professionalism : A degree can help you develop the tour guide skills and professionalism required to excel in the field. You’ll learn about customer service, communication, and safety protocols, which can enhance the overall experience for tourists and ensure their safety.
• Legal and Regulatory Requirements : Tour guides must be licensed or certified in many places, and a degree in tourism can help you meet these regulatory requirements. It can also provide a strong foundation for passing required exams or assessments.
• Career Advancement : A degree can open up more career opportunities within the tourism industry. For example, you might qualify for higher-paying positions, such as managing a team of guides or working as a travel consultant or planner.
• Networking : While pursuing a degree, you’ll have the opportunity to network with other students, professors, and industry professionals.
• Global Perspective : Some tour guide programs cover international tourism, which can be especially valuable for working in a worldwide or cross-cultural context. It can help you understand the needs and expectations of tourists from diverse backgrounds.

How Long Does It Take To Get A Degree In Tourism?

The time it takes to earn a degree in tourism can vary depending on several factors, including the degree level and whether you’re pursuing the degree full-time or part-time.

Here’s a general overview of the different types of degrees in tourism and their durations:

• Certificate in Hospitality and Tourism : It takes at least two weeks to complete a certificate in tourism and hospitality, where you will also get on-site training.
• Associate’s Degree : An associate’s degree in tourism or a related field takes around two years of full-time study. You will find these programs at community colleges or vocational schools.
• Bachelor’s Degree : A bachelor’s degree in tourism or hospitality management takes about 3 to 4 years of full-time study. The exact duration can vary by country and specific program requirements.
• Master’s Degree: A master’s degree in tourism or a related field usually takes 1 to 2 years of full-time study after obtaining a bachelor’s degree. Some programs may offer accelerated options, and the duration may also depend on the specific master’s program.

How Much Does It Cost To Study Hospitality And Tourism At University?

The cost of studying Hospitality and Tourism at a university can vary widely depending on several factors, including the region where you choose to study, the specific university or college you attend, your residency status, and the level of the program, whether undergraduate or postgraduate.

On average, public colleges charge $9,300 per year for in-state students, whereas out-of-state students pay $26,400 for a bachelor’s degree . 

Here are factors that can influence the cost:

• Location : Tuition fees can vary significantly from one state to another. 
• University : The reputation and ranking of the university can impact tuition costs. More prestigious universities may charge higher tuition fees.
• Degree Level : Undergraduate programs are typically less expensive than postgraduate programs such as a master’s program.
• Duration of Program : Longer programs will cost more than shorter ones.
• Additional Costs : Consider other expenses, such as housing, textbooks, transportation, and living costs, when calculating the total cost of your education.
• Scholarships and Financial Aid : Many universities offer scholarships and financial aid to help students offset the cost of their education.

Can I Become A Tour Guide Through Online Education?

Are you researching how to become a tour guide and wondering if you can study online? Yes, you can . And, it is cheaper to study online to become a tour guide.

Here’s a general outline of the steps involved in becoming a tour guide and where online education can fit in:

• Research and Familiarization : Start by gaining in-depth knowledge about the area where you wish to become a tour guide. This may involve online research, reading books, and watching documentaries or online courses related to the region’s history, culture, and geography.
• Formal Education : Many universities and colleges offer online degrees or certificates in tourism , hospitality, history, or cultural studies, which can provide you with a strong educational foundation. 
• Customer Service and Soft Skills : Effective communication, people skills, and customer service are crucial for tour guides. You can improve these skills through online courses, workshops, and books on customer service and interpersonal communication.

What Are Some Web Resources To Learn Skills To Become A Tour Guide?

Here are some web resources to help you develop the necessary tour guide skills and knowledge related to tourism and hospitality:

• National Tour Association (NTA) : The NTA provides resources, education, and networking opportunities for tour professionals. Their website offers webinars, articles, and publications on tour guiding and tourism.
• International Tour Management Institute (ITMI): ITMI offers online courses and resources for tour guides and directors. They cover various aspects of tour management, from group dynamics to destination knowledge.
• Tourism e-Lab : This e-learning platform offers a wide range of online courses related to tourism and hospitality. Courses cover tour guiding, travel management, and customer service.
• World Federation of Tourist Guide Associations (WFTGA) : The WFTGA website provides information about professional tour guiding standards, international tour guiding events, and educational opportunities.
• Tourism and Hospitality Schools’ Websites : Many universities and colleges with programs in tourism and hospitality offer free resources, such as lecture notes and presentations, on their websites. These resources can help gain a more in-depth understanding of the field.
• Forums and Online Communities : Joining forums and communities of tour guides can be a great way to learn from experienced guides, exchange tour guide tips, and get advice. Look for platforms like TripAdvisor’s forums forums or dedicated tour guide forums.

Practical Experience

What are internship opportunities for a tour guide.

Internship opportunities for a tour guide can be a great way to gain practical experience and develop the skills necessary for a career in tourism and hospitality.

Here are some internship opportunities that can help you on your path to becoming a tour guide:

• Tour Companies : Many tour companies offer internships for individuals interested in becoming tour guides. These internships may involve shadowing experienced guides, learning about different tour routes, and assisting with tour logistics.
• Museums and Cultural Institutions : Museums and cultural institutions often offer internships related to guided tours. These internships may involve researching and developing tour content, leading tours, and interacting with visitors.
• National and State Parks : If you’re interested in nature and outdoor activities, consider internships at national and state parks. These opportunities can provide you with experience in guiding hikes, wildlife tours, and educational programs.
• Historical Sites : Historical sites and landmarks often employ tour guides. Interning at such locations can give you hands-on experience sharing historical and cultural information with visitors.
• Travel Agencies : Some travel agencies offer internships that involve assisting clients with tour bookings, creating itineraries, and learning about various travel destinations.
• Cruise Lines : If you’re interested in working as a tour guide on cruise ships, consider internships with cruise lines. These internships may involve assisting with onboard tours and excursions.
• Hospitality Industry : Some internships in the hospitality industry can also be relevant for tour guides. Working at hotels, resorts, or hostels can help you gain customer service and guest interaction skills.

What Skills Will I Learn as a Tour Guide?

Here are some of the critical skills you’ll develop as a tour guide:

• Knowledge of the Destination : A tour guide must have in-depth knowledge about the location they are guiding in. This includes historical, cultural, and geographical information and up-to-date information on local events and attractions.
• Communication Skills : Effective communication is crucial. You need to convey information clearly and engagingly to your clients. This includes public speaking, storytelling, and interpersonal communication.
• Adaptability : Tour guides must be flexible and adapt to unexpected changes or challenges during tours, such as weather, transportation issues, or last-minute schedule changes.
• Leadership : You will lead a group, manage their behavior, and ensure they follow the tour’s rules and guidelines.
• Time Management : Tours often have tight schedules, so keeping the group on time and track is crucial.
• Safety Awareness : Ensuring the safety of your clients is paramount. You need to be trained in first aid and emergency procedures and understand the local safety regulations well.
• Cultural Sensitivity : Be aware of cultural norms and differences to respect the traditions and customs of your clients, especially in a multicultural environment.
• Navigation : Familiarity with the area’s layout and understanding of maps and GPS systems are valuable for navigating destinations.
• Storytelling : Being able to tell engaging and informative stories about the location’s history, culture, and landmarks can make the tour more enjoyable and memorable for your clients.
• Knowledge of Tour Logistics : Understanding the logistics of organizing and conducting tours, such as transportation, entrance fees, permits, and other administrative tasks.
• Conflict Resolution : Dealing with client disputes or conflicts within the group diplomatically and effectively is an important skill.
• Technology: Proficiency with technology, including audio equipment, multimedia presentations, and mobile apps, helps guide the tourists, thus enhancing the tour experience.

What is the Work-Life Balance of a Tour Guide?

A tour guide’s work-life balance can vary depending on several factors, including the type of tours they lead, their company, their experience, and their personal preferences.

Here are some key considerations:

• Seasonality : Tour guides often work in a seasonal industry. Summer seasons and holidays, for instance, have long, busy workdays with limited time off. In contrast, during the off-season, they may have more flexibility and free time.
• Hours of Operation : Some tours, like day tours or city tours, have regular working hours, while others, like multi-day or specialized tours, may require irregular or longer hours. Evening and weekend work is common in the industry.
• Flexibility : Independent tour guides may have more control over their schedules and can better manage their work-life balance. On the other hand, guides employed by larger tour companies may have less flexibility and be subject to fixed plans.
• Physical Demands : Tour guiding can be physically demanding, as guides often spend long hours on their feet and may need to keep up with a fast-paced itinerary. This can impact their work-life balance and overall well-being.
• Personal Preferences : Some tour guides may prefer a more flexible, on-the-go lifestyle, while others may value a more structured work schedule. The balance between work and personal life can vary based on individual preferences.
• Time Off : Tour guides work when others have time off, such as weekends and holidays. This can be both an advantage and a disadvantage, as it allows them to meet tourists during these high-demand periods but can limit their leisure time.
• Burnout : The nature of the job, with its long hours, repetitive information delivery, and the need to cater to tourists’ needs, can lead to burnout if not appropriately managed.

What’s the Career Outlook for Tour Guides?

According to BLS, the projected employment outlook for a tour guide will change drastically from 2022 to 2032, with 4,300 new jobs each year and an 8% growth in this industry.

However, the career outlook for tour guides depends on the location, the type of tours offered, and economic conditions. 

What Are The Job Opportunities Of A Tour Guide?

Job opportunities for tour guides can vary depending on their location, specialization, and skills.

Here are some common job opportunities for tour guides:

• City Tour Guide : City tour guides lead tourists on tours of urban areas, providing historical, cultural, and architectural information about the city’s landmarks, neighborhoods, and attractions.
• Museum Tour Guide : Tour guides work in museums and art galleries, offering explanations and insights about the exhibits and artifacts.
• Nature and Adventure Tour Guide : These guides lead outdoor tours, such as hiking, wildlife safaris, or adventure activities like rafting or zip-lining. They share their knowledge about local flora, fauna, and outdoor experiences.
• Cultural Tour Guide : Tour guides showcase a region’s local culture, traditions, and customs. They often lead tours to festivals, historical sites, and cultural events.
• Wine Tour Guide : Wine tour guides work in vineyards and wineries, leading tours that include wine tastings and education about the winemaking process.
• Food Tour Guide : Food tour guides introduce tourists to local culinary delights, taking them to restaurants, markets, and food-related events to sample regional dishes.
• Historic Tour Guide : Historic tour guides specialize in providing insights into the history of a particular location or landmark. They may lead tours of historical sites, battlefields, or architectural wonders.
• Educational Tour Guide : Educational tour guides work with school groups or educational institutions, providing informative tours focused on history, science, or culture.
• Cruise Ship Tour Guide : Cruise ship tour guides organize and lead shore excursions for cruise passengers at various ports of call.
• Language-Specific Tour Guide : If you are proficient in a foreign language, you can be a language-specific tour guide for tourists who speak your language. This is especially valuable in regions popular with international tourists.
• Private Tour Guide: Some tour guides offer private tours tailored to the specific interests of individual or small groups of travelers.
• Virtual Tour Guide : With the rise of virtual tourism and online experiences, there is a growing demand for virtual tour guides who lead tours via video conferencing or virtual reality platforms.

What Type of Organizations Hire a Tour Guide?

The type of companies or organizations that hire tour guides can vary based on the tours’ nature and the guiding services’ specific focus.

Here are some examples:

• Tour Operators
• Travel Agencies
• Museums and Cultural Institutions
• National and State Parks
• Cruise Lines
• Historical Sites and Landmarks
• Zoos and Aquariums
• Adventure and Eco-Tourism Companies
• Walking and Segway Tour Companies
• Bus and Trolley Tour Companies
• Language Schools
• Event and Conference Organizers
• Educational Institutions

Should I become a Tour Guide?

Looking at all the information we have discussed above, becoming a tour guide will help you develop new skills such as adaptability and communication skills. There is a chance to grow and move from entry-level to CEO based on your specialty.

However, the annual average wage is relatively lower than other occupations, which might challenge some. Therefore, look at your skills, passion, and lifetime goals to determine if the career works for you.

Careers Related to Tour Guide

• Customer Service Representative
• Event Planner
• Travel Agent

About the Author

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What is a tour guide and how to become one

A tour guide is a professional who offers guided tours to individuals or groups. They research and plan tours, provide sightseeing advice, and organize excursions. Tour guides are experts on the historical background and culture of an area, and they are expected to be enthusiastic, punctual, and have strong communication skills. They often lead tours through specific destinations, such as historical sites or cultural landmarks. Some tour guides also provide information about the local environment, such as wildlife or natural wonders. They often interact with visitors through multilingual skills, ensuring compliance with safety regulations and providing an enjoyable experience for all.

How long does it takes to become a tour guide?

It typically takes 2-3 years to become a tour guide:

• Year 1: Obtaining an associate degree in a relevant field, such as travel, hospitality, or history.
• Year 2-3: Accumulating the necessary work experience, such as leading tours, providing information, and ensuring customer satisfaction.

On-site training may last less than a month, while on-the-job training can take 1-3 months.

• Salary $32,323
• Jobs Number 1,043
• Complexity Level Intermediate
• Most Common Skill Local History
• Most Common Degree Bachelor's degree
• Best State Alaska

Tour Guide career paths

A tour guide can lead to various career paths, including teaching, consulting, and management. Some tour guides go on to become general managers, while others become owners or co-owners of their own businesses. A tour guide's experience working with groups can also prepare them for roles such as team leader, assistant manager, or account manager. Additionally, tour guides may find opportunities as substitute teachers, resident assistants, or specialists. Some even go on to become executives, such as vice presidents or chief operating officers.

Key steps to become a tour guide

Explore tour guide education requirements.

The educational requirements for a tour guide are varied, but most commonly include a high school diploma, certificate, associate's degree, or bachelor's degree. According to the data, 0.2182% of tour guides have a high school diploma, 0.0774% have a certificate, 0.3248% have an associate's degree, and 0.3003% have a bachelor's degree. Some tour guides may pursue certification programs such as First Aid, CPR and AED Instructor, Travel and Tourism Professional, or Certified tour guide/Director. Popular majors for aspiring tour guides include Business, Communication, Psychology, History, and English.

According to the data, top schools for tour guide education include Stanford University, University of Pennsylvania, University of Southern California, Boston University, and New York University. Tour guides who specialize in a specific area, such as history or nature, may choose to pursue a degree in that field. However, many tour guides learn on the job and gain experience through internships or entry-level positions.

Most common tour guide degrees

Bachelor's

High School Diploma

Start to develop specific tour guide skills

Tour guides use a variety of skills to provide informative and engaging tours for guests. They must be able to communicate effectively and answer questions, while also ensuring safety and compliance with regulations. Tour guides also use their memorization and recitation skills to provide detailed information about the places they visit. They must be able to provide excellent guest service and tailor their tours to the interests of their audience. In addition, they often handle administrative tasks such as booking reservations and managing inventory. As one tour guide put it, "I used multilingual skills to effectively communicate safety procedures with large worldwide clientele."

Complete relevant tour guide training and internships

Gain additional tour guide certifications.

Tour guide certifications can show employers you have a baseline of knowledge expected for the position. Certifications can also make you a more competitive candidate. Even if employers don't require a specific tour guide certification, having one may help you stand out relative to other applicants.

The most common certifications for tour guides include First Aid, CPR and AED Instructor and Travel and Tourism Professional (TTP).

Research tour guide duties and responsibilities

Tour guides provide informational tours of breweries, paper manufacturing facilities, and universities, as well as entertain guests and ensure their safety. They also answer questions, process inventory, and train customers. They provide excellent guest service, promote businesses, and handle promotion through online channels. They also execute premium customer service, and lead group tours during special events and staff open houses.

• Manage the canoe landing including guests, workers, and canoe traffic in a way that all run smoothly and safely.
• Aid clients with matters regarding passports and visas.
• Receive multiple positive reviews on the company Facebook page.
• Complete extensive training as well as first aid, CPR and a certification.

Prepare your tour guide resume

When your background is strong enough, you can start writing your tour guide resume.

You can use Zippia's AI resume builder to make the resume writing process easier while also making sure that you include key information that hiring managers expect to see on a tour guide resume. You'll find resume tips and examples of skills, responsibilities, and summaries, all provided by Zippi, your career sidekick.

Choose From 10+ Customizable Tour Guide Resume templates

Apply for tour guide jobs

Now it's time to start searching for a tour guide job. Consider the tips below for a successful job search:

• Browse job boards for relevant postings
• Consult your professional network
• Reach out to companies you're interested in working for directly
• Watch out for job scams

Are you a Tour Guide?

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Average tour guide salary

The average Tour Guide salary in the United States is $32,323 per year or $16 per hour. Tour guide salaries range between $18,000 and $55,000 per year.

What Am I Worth?

How do tour guides rate their job?

Tour guide faqs, what are careers in tourism, what are careers in travel and tourism, search for tour guide jobs.

Updated April 25, 2024

Editorial Staff

The Zippia Research Team has spent countless hours reviewing resumes, job postings, and government data to determine what goes into getting a job in each phase of life. Professional writers and data scientists comprise the Zippia Research Team.

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The job market for tour guides in the United States

There are currently an estimated 45,800 tour guides in the United States. The tour guide job market is expected to grow by 10.5% between 2016 and 2026.

How employable are tour guides?

CareerExplorer rates tour guides with a D employability rating, meaning this career should provide weak employment opportunities for the foreseeable future. Over the next 10 years, it is expected the US will need 13,200 tour guides. That number is based on 4,800 additional tour guides, and the retirement of 8,400 existing tour guides.

Are tour guides in demand?

When most people hear the term ‘tour guide’ they commonly think of guides who show travellers around places of interest, either in one city or country or at multiple destinations as part of an extended tour. The fact is, however, the field employs different kinds of guides and the demand for and employability of those employed in each sector varies according to several factors. Certainly, job prospects for local tour guides who escort visitors to museums, galleries, and religious sites rely on an influx of tourists. These tour guides must be able to recall facts, figures, and events and be able to convey them in a compelling manner. Those guides who accompany groups on multi-city or multi-country itineraries are responsible for almost every tour detail and must possess exemplary organization skills and the ability to engage different cultures. In most European countries, local guides must pass rigorous examinations and must be licensed to practice. In North America, there are few regulations for tour guides and they are generally not required to obtain a license. Regardless of where these tour guides work, familiarity with local history and attractions, communication skills, comfort with public speaking, and knowledge of more than one language are definite assets for progressing in the field. A background in theatre or entertainment or experience in teaching will also improve a candidate’s employment prospects. ’Tour guides’ who work with corporations suffer from a misnomer. They are not tour guides. They are ‘trip directors’ or ‘travel directors’ or ‘tour directors’ and their responsibilities vary greatly from those of traditional tour guides. TDs, as they are referred to in industry circles, act more as traveling concierges who cater to the needs of participants on corporate reward or ‘incentive’ trips. Aspiring TDs need to be prepared for extremely long days, multiple changes to pre-planned programs, and often unexpected requests and demands from their guests who have in most cases won their trips for achieving sales or management quotas. Since TDs sometimes travel to and from destinations with their groups, they are more employable if they have at least a basic understanding of airline reservations and ticketing procedures, as well as language skills. A high energy level, ability to think on one’s feet, and a genuine desire to resolve issues are unofficially mandatory to be successful in this role.

Travelling Without a Passport

8 Reasons Why Being a Tour Guide is the Best Job

Everyone is telling you to quit your day job, live the dream, escape your office cubicle and travel the world, right? You’re sitting at your desk reading this, dreaming of open roads and stunning sights, but probably wondering ‘how the hell can anyone afford that?’

The answer, my friends, is to earn while you’re travelling.

There’s a number of different paths to earning as you travel; teaching English overseas, working remotely for your company, becoming a virtual assistant or even travel blogging – but only one option that will enrich your travel experience. Becoming a tour guide is one of the most rewarding and exhilarating ways to see the world, learn about a country’s culture and history while sharing your love of travel with people just like you.

Here’s 8 reasons why being a tour guide is the best way to travel the world and still earn a living.

1. You’ll learn a valuable skill set for a future career

Tour Guides wear multiple ‘hats’ while running a trip. It may look like your guide is having a relaxed holiday alongside the group, but the reality is that a tour guide is a travel agent, therapist, accountant, event manager, historian, conflict resolution manager, tax and currency expert and professional public speaker. All skills which carry across impressively to any future career.

Depending on what types of tours you decide to lead, you’ll also be required to become certified in a few different core competency areas which are irreplacable skills to possess for your own travels as well.

2. You will see more countries & cities than you ever thought possible

In most cases, a tour guide does not just do the same tour loop for an entire season. A fully trained tour guide will have the opportunity to guide many different itineraries for their tour company – meaning you will visit, study and experience new destinations multiple times! Start racking up that country count, you’re about to become a professional full-time traveller.

See Also: The Truth About Being a Tour Guide: Exposed

3. You will be living the dream

You will be paid to travel. Your job, every day, will be to show first-time travellers their way around a new destination. As a tour guide, ‘work’ means being a part of someone’s happiest holiday memories. You are actually required to have fun for a living while travelling! Be warned – most of your friends back at their desk jobs will be insanely jealous of your daily updates from Monaco, Barcelona and Bali.

4. You’ll become an expert on history, art and architecture

To be a truly excellent tour guide, you need to know your stuff, which means studying up on architectural styles, historical fun facts and the best places to eat, drink and party. This isn’t your boring old history teacher studying – think researching the funniest stories of a royal family or the perfect recipe for goulash to share with your groups.

Pretty soon you will be an expert in Corinthian columns, traditional eating habits in multiple countries and the hilarious history of inter-country grudges. Your pub quiz score is going to go through the roof once you’ve become a tour guide!

5. Your colleagues will be just like you!

Forget trying to make friends with Steve from HR who just doesn’t understand your wanderlust obsession. When you work in the travel industry, all your colleagues are as crazy about travel as you are! You will finally be surrounded by people who understand and encourage your need to see the world and experience new cultures. It will be a relief and inspiration all at once. (Sorry Steve)

See Also: The 11 Best Travel Jobs In The World

6. You can save while travelling

When you are guiding, your transport expenses, accommodation and some meals are all covered – meaning half of what you earn can be saved. With no rent, car payments or gas bills, you can accrue a decent amount in savings while you travel. This means that at the end of a season of guiding you will have some cash stashed for your own travel adventures!

7. You will become a destination expert

Knowing a destination inside out means you’ll know all the best restaurants, bars, cafes and insider tips to maximize the fun you’ll have while also getting the best possible price on meals and drinks.

8. You’ll have friends all over the world

Just like anyone who takes a tour, at the end of a trip you are best friends with the other people who shared the experience with you. That means, as a tour guide, you will have hundreds of best friends who were on your tours scattered across the world.

Next time you go backpacking in Australia, Mexico, South Africa or Canada you’ll have local friends from your tours ready to show you their home towns, and maybe even a free couch to crash on. What an excellent excuse to do even more travelling!

Becoming a tour guide isn’t easy, there are some intensive training and a long interview process, but if you manage to score the job, it is undoubtedly the best way to travel the world and still earn the cash you need to enjoy it! 

So, are you ready to abandon the 9 to 5?

Carly Hulls

Carly Hulls writes at Austrian Adaptation about her expat life in Vienna and the places she discovers on her part-time travels. She is an Australian writer, traveller, brunch-fiend and book-nerd who can’t resist a good castle or historic monument. After 5 years travelling to over 34 countries she currently calls Vienna home, facing the daily struggle of the German language! You can follow her adventures on Facebook , Twitter and Snapchat @CarlyHulls.

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Tour Guide Job Description

Tour guides familiarize people with the history, functions, and customs of a particular region or establishment. Though customers typically include foreigners on vacation, virtually any person can attend a tour.

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Tour Guide Job Description Template

We are searching for a vibrant tour guide to join our established company. The tour guide's responsibilities include planning travel itineraries, familiarizing customers with the locality by vehicle or foot, and ensuring that the group remains safe at all times. You should also stay up-to-date with new attractions that may be of interest to customers.

To ensure success as a tour guide, you should be an excellent storyteller with a knack for customer service. An outstanding tour guide will perform minor alterations to each itinerary to suit the unique interests of each group.

Tour Guide Responsibilities:

• Greeting and welcoming customers to the tour.
• Informing customers about the itinerary for each tour.
• Planning itineraries in accordance with weather forecasts and the length of each tour.
• Scheduling visits and purchasing tickets to museums, galleries, protected parks, and other attractions ahead of time, if required.
• Planning alternate activities in the event that cancellations, closures, or weather prohibit you from attending scheduled events.
• Gathering and maintaining the requisite equipment for each tour.
• Familiarizing yourself with the layout and history of the region or establishment in which you will be working.
• Familiarizing customers with each region or establishment.
• Encouraging guests to apply sunscreen regularly and to remain hydrated, if applicable.
• Directing customers to other, noncompeting services that might be of interest to them.

Tour Guide Requirements:

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Prior experience as a tour guide is advantageous.
• Capacity to stand and walk for extended periods.
• Adherence to prescribed safety codes.
• Excellent conversational skills with a knack for storytelling.
• Personable, humorous disposition.
• Outstanding organizational, time management, and improvisational skills.
• Passionate about traveling.
• Ability to work during evenings and on weekends.

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Tour Guide Job Description

Tour guide duties & responsibilities.

To write an effective tour guide job description, begin by listing detailed duties, responsibilities and expectations. We have included tour guide job description templates that you can modify and use.

Sample responsibilities for this position include:

Tour Guide Qualifications

Qualifications for a job description may include education, certification, and experience.

Licensing or Certifications for Tour Guide

List any licenses or certifications required by the position: CPR, AED, NAATI, CMS, SCUBA

Education for Tour Guide

Typically a job would require a certain level of education.

Employers hiring for the tour guide job most commonly would prefer for their future employee to have a relevant degree such as Collage and Bachelor's Degree in Communications, Journalism, Public Relations, Marketing, Education, Graduate, History, Communication, Museum Studies, General Education

Skills for Tour Guide

Desired skills for tour guide include:

Desired experience for tour guide includes:

Tour Guide Examples

• Microsoft Word (.docx) .DOCX
• PDF Document (.pdf) .PDF
• Image File (.png) .PNG
• Remain informed of new information (Biosphere 2 programs, scientific research, ) and appropriately relay that information to visitors
• Greet and receive visitors to campus in a friendly and approachable manner
• Be an ambassador and leader on campus
• Provide accurate information and directions
• Conduct walking tours of campus
• Host students that wish to "shadow a current student" or accompany them to your classes
• Assist with Marketing & Communications projects and programs
• Work on weekends (Saturday/Sunday) and during final exams
• New hires will need to attend a mandatory training day
• Expedite all tours by checking guests in, print tickets
• Energetic, personable and friendly manner
• Ability to think on your feet and solve problems under own initiative
• 2 years providing guided experiences and working in an environment that required teaching, coaching, and instructional skills
• Ability to work quickly and remain alert, and to strictly observe safety procedures
• Previous experience working with Outdoor Programs or similar activity (strongly preferred)
• Previous experience working with Outdoor Programs or similar activity
• Use a computer based point of sale system to make reservations and sell tours
• Conduct scheduled tours and give facts and information to guests while snowshoeing, skibiking or snowcating in a safe informative and efficient manner
• Help guests on the mountain or at the base as needed
• Answer questions about the Fraser Valley and surroundings
• Assists in ticket and season pass sales, keep information boards current and orderly
• Assists in ticket sales areas helping guests and giving out information
• Assists other departments as needed on snowmobiles
• Perform daily routine maintenance, fueling, and oiling of snowcats and snowmobiles in accordance with Winter Park policies and procedures, including any cleaning and waxing needs
• Parking and moving snowmobiles and snow cats around base area and mountain in a safe and efficient manner
• Performs occasional snow-packing, trail maintenance pre-season and seasonally, as directed
• This will include dealing with enquires on site, monitoring visitors in the exhibition area and providing product knowledge to visitors
• Answer visitor questions and deal with queries assisting visitors who have special requirements
• Assist with large groups and school parties
• Monitor visitors on the exhibition floor
• Bilingual in Spanish, French or Mandarin a plus
• Ability to navigate uneven stairs and grades up to 10%
• Tour Guides are responsible for proactively approaching all guests to answer questions and provide general tour or Arena information
• Supervise the progress and experience of each assigned tour group
• Familiarization with the Winter Park ski area and mountain terrain
• Maintains knowledge of radio usage
• Transportation of guests or employees around mountain per ski patrol, with events, or per supervisors
• Report and correct, if possible, unsafe conditions regarding equipment and area of work or elsewhere on the area
• Skibike 1/5 of time
• Lift up to 75 Ibs (snowmobile occasionally and helping fallen guests occasionally)
• Carry, up to 20 Ibs (backpack during tours)
• Push/pull up to 75 Ibs (snowmobile) occasionally
• Most positions require general office experience and some assignments require strong billing, accounts payable and receivable experience, and a valid California Driver’s License
• 1 x 7 hour per week (Saturdays and Sundays) contract
• Ability to stand and walk for extended periods of time (approximately 7 miles per day), climb stairs, and comfortably work indoors and outdoors in extreme temperature fluctuations
• Ability to deal effectively and tactfully with the public, fellow employees, managers and volunteers
• Ability to respond professionally to unusual or unexpected situations
• Must have the ability to work a flexible schedule of shifts that routinely include weekends, evenings, and holidays
• Provide exceptional service and go above-and-beyond to ensure guests are fully satisfied with their tour and overall Busch Gardens experience
• Follow up with tour guests, complete surveys, and make Photo CDs for guests
• Be responsible for the safety of tour participants
• Ensure that tour participants complete safety training and sign in appropriately
• Hours during the summer season will vary from 10-30 hours per week depending on tour schedules
• Stoop, kneel, crouch
• Reach, handle, use hands
• Talk, 90% of time
• Hearing, ordinary conversation, 90% of time
• Average acuity/near, often (gauges, forms, computer screens)
• Desire to help wide-eyed tourists and grizzled NYC residents experience art and museums in a very fun way
• Must have flexible daytime availability (including weekends)
• Must be a New York City resident and be a U.S. citizen or have valid work authorization
• Must live in NYC area (can easily commute to the Met) and be a U.S. citizen or have valid work authorization
• Ability to speak, read, and write clearly in English
• Must be comfortable with electronics and computers and have access to email
• To communicate closely with Food & Beverage, Housekeeping and Front Office to ensure all tour requirements are met
• Ensure all requests from on site tour operators are addressed in an appropriate and efficient manner
• Prepare and implement tour needs including, back-up staffing, coordination with Donor Ministries, Facilities Department, the President’s Office, and other Wilkes Office departments
• Maintain a thorough knowledge of Samaritan’s Purse projects and activities requiring funding
• Average acuity/far, often (routes, driving, skibiking, night biking)
• Depth perception, constantly (driving, riding safely on ski runs through skiers and people possibly in limited visibility conditions and night time)
• Good field of vision,(peripheral vision for avoiding trees, towers, skiers, etc with equipment)
• Withstand extreme cold and wet occasionally (Tours in adverse conditions)
• Withstand Fumes / odors occasionally (exhaust, diesel)
• Avoiding Hazards (trees, skiers, terrain)
• Warm, friendly, eager, a "people person" with excellent communication skills but also attention to detail
• Must be able to wear required uniform
• College degree required and/or the equivalent in experience
• Extensive knowledge of Santa Fe and the surrounding National Parks and key areas of interest
• A valid ID residency to live in Galapagos Islands
• Naturalist Guide license issued by the Galapagos National Park

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Tour Guide Job Description [Updated for 2024]

In this era of global travel and exploration, the focus on tour guides has never been more critical.

As tourism evolves, the demand for skilled individuals who can navigate, educate and ensure the safety of travelers grows.

But let’s break it down: What’s truly expected from a tour guide?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the core of this role,
• A hiring manager outlining the ideal candidate,
• Or simply fascinated by the intricacies of the tourism industry,

You’ve come to the right place.

Today, we present a customizable tour guide job description template, designed for effortless posting on job boards or career websites.

Let’s dive right in.

Tour Guide Duties and Responsibilities

Tour Guides offer support and information to tourists, visitors and travelers.

They are experts in the history, culture, and landmarks of a specific area and provide meaningful experiences for tourists by engaging and educating them about the area.

The duties and responsibilities of a Tour Guide include:

• Planning and preparing tour itineraries
• Leading and accompanying groups on tours of cities, historical sites, and other points of interest
• Providing educational and interesting facts about landmarks and attractions
• Ensuring the safety of the group at all times
• Answering questions and engaging with tourists to provide an interactive experience
• Providing directions and travel advice
• Dealing with emergencies and unexpected situations
• Managing the logistics of tours such as transport and entry tickets
• Performing administrative tasks like confirming bookings and handling payments
• Providing customer service and handling complaints or issues from tourists

Tour Guide Job Description Template

We are seeking an engaging, friendly and informative Tour Guide to provide our visitors with memorable and unique experiences during their visits.

The Tour Guide’s responsibilities include designing and facilitating tours, maintaining knowledge of the tour site or attraction, and providing visitors with interesting, factual information about the site.

Our ideal candidate has excellent public speaking skills, a customer-focused approach and a passion for history and culture.

Ultimately, the role of the Tour Guide is to ensure a high standard of customer service and provide a professional, informative and enjoyable tour experience.

Responsibilities

• Plan and lead guided tours for groups
• Provide detailed information about historical, cultural, or geographical significance of sites
• Answer visitor questions and interact with group members in a courteous, friendly manner
• Ensure safety regulations and procedures are followed
• Assist with ticket sales, reservations, and group bookings
• Keep tour areas clean and organized
• Develop and update tour scripts to keep tours engaging and informative
• Provide feedback to management on tour efficiency and guest satisfaction
• Handle any problems or emergencies that arise during tours

Qualifications

• Proven experience as a tour guide
• Excellent communication and public speaking skills
• Ability to memorize and recite facts clearly and accurately
• Strong customer service skills
• Knowledge of foreign languages is a plus
• First aid certification may be required
• High school diploma or equivalent; Bachelor’s degree in tourism or relevant field is a plus
• Flexible schedule
• Travel discounts
• Professional development opportunities
• Employee discounts
• Health insurance options

Additional Information

• Job Title: Tour Guide
• Work Environment: Tour sites and attractions, both indoors and outdoors. Some weekend, holiday, and evening work may be required.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Tour Operations Manager.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $20,000 minimum to $35,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location)
• Employment Type: Full-time, Part-time, Seasonal
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

What Does a Tour Guide Do?

Tour Guides typically work for travel agencies, tour operators, or at specific tourist attractions.

They can also work as freelance individuals offering specialized tours based on their expertise.

Their main responsibility is to guide groups or individuals around sites of interest such as cities, historical landmarks, museums, and natural attractions.

They provide their knowledge and insights about the locations, including historical facts, cultural background, architectural details, and more.

They plan and organize tours considering the interests, needs, and safety of the tourists.

They manage travel logistics such as transportation, accommodations, and meals.

They ensure that the tour runs smoothly and on schedule.

Tour Guides also answer questions, address concerns, and engage with tourists to enhance their travel experience.

They may have to handle unexpected situations or emergencies during the tour.

They are often responsible for ensuring tourists respect the rules and regulations of the sites visited, ensuring both the preservation of the site and the safety of the group.

Moreover, they might be required to provide first aid, and in some cases, they are also responsible for selling tour tickets and managing the financial aspects of the tour.

Tour Guide Qualifications and Skills

A proficient tour guide should possess a unique set of skills and qualifications that enhance their ability to guide and interact with tourists, such as:

• Outstanding communication skills to provide clear, engaging and informative descriptions of places and events.
• Customer service skills to cater to the needs and inquiries of tourists, ensuring a pleasant and memorable experience.
• Interpersonal skills to connect with people from diverse cultural backgrounds, maintaining a positive and friendly demeanor at all times.
• Local knowledge and a passion for history, culture, and geography to educate and entertain tourists about the locality.
• Physical stamina and good health to manage long walks, stand for extended periods, and handle luggage or equipment if necessary.
• Problem-solving skills to handle unexpected situations or emergencies that may arise during the tour.
• Fluency in multiple languages can be a significant advantage, enhancing the ability to communicate with tourists from various parts of the world.
• Time management skills to ensure that the tour adheres to the planned schedule, balancing the need to be informative and enjoyable with the need to be prompt and efficient.

Tour Guide Experience Requirements

Experience requirements for tour guides can vary widely based on the type of tours they are leading.

However, some general experience is usually required in customer service, public speaking, or related areas.

Entry-level candidates may be required to have 1 to 2 years of experience in a customer-facing role, such as working in a hotel, restaurant, or retail environment.

They may also gain relevant experience through internships or part-time roles at museums, historical sites, or tourism companies.

Candidates with over 3 years of experience often have developed their skills in communication, crowd management, and first aid.

They have likely worked in a variety of tour guiding roles, such as city tours, nature tours, or historical site tours.

Those with more than 5 years of experience have usually honed their expertise in a specific type of tour or location and may be ready for a role as a senior guide or tour director.

They may also have experience creating and planning tours, managing other guides, or working in a supervisory role in the tourism industry.

In addition to job experience, many tour guides also have a background in fields such as history, geography, or a foreign language, depending on the specific requirements of the tour.

Many also have professional certifications from recognized tourism or guiding associations.

Tour Guide Education and Training Requirements

Tour Guides generally require a high school diploma or equivalent qualification, although a bachelor’s degree in a field such as history, archaeology, or tourism management can be highly beneficial.

They should have a strong knowledge of the areas and sites they guide visitors through, which is often gained through on-the-job training or previous experience in a similar role.

In-depth knowledge of a foreign language can be a significant advantage in this field, especially for guides working in areas frequented by international tourists.

In many areas, tour guides must also obtain a license or certification, which usually involves passing an examination that tests their knowledge of the area and its history.

Some tour guides may also choose to obtain a certification from an organization such as the World Federation of Tourist Guide Associations or the National Federation of Tourist Guide Associations, which can enhance their credibility and increase their employment opportunities.

Continuous learning is critical for tour guides, as they must keep up to date with new historical research, changes in local regulations, and trends in the tourism industry.

Tour Guide Salary Expectations

A Tour Guide can expect to earn an average wage of $13.27 (USD) per hour.

However, the actual earnings may differ depending on factors such as experience, the specific location of employment, and the company that they work for.

Tour Guide Job Description FAQs

What skills does a tour guide need.

A Tour Guide should possess excellent communication and interpersonal skills to effectively interact with a diverse group of people.

They should have a deep knowledge of the area or site they are guiding and be able to present information in an engaging and entertaining way.

They should also have problem-solving skills to handle any unexpected situations, and good physical stamina as the job often involves a lot of walking or standing.

Do Tour Guides need any specific qualifications?

While a degree is not strictly required to become a Tour Guide, having a qualification in a related field such as history, archaeology or travel and tourism could be beneficial.

Many employers prioritize experience and knowledge about the site or region over formal education.

However, some regions require Tour Guides to be licensed or certified, which could involve passing an exam or completing a training program.

What should you look for in a Tour Guide’s resume?

A good Tour Guide resume should showcase a deep knowledge of the area or site, and any relevant qualifications or certifications.

It should also show strong communication and customer service skills, and any experience in handling emergencies or unexpected situations.

Multilingual abilities can be a strong asset for Tour Guides, especially in areas frequented by international tourists.

What qualities make a good Tour Guide?

A good Tour Guide is passionate about their area or site and is enthusiastic in sharing their knowledge with others.

They are friendly, patient and have strong customer service skills, and can adapt their tours to suit the needs of different groups.

They are also dependable and can handle difficult situations calmly and efficiently.

Is it difficult to hire Tour Guides?

The difficulty in hiring Tour Guides often depends on the specific needs of the role.

For popular tourist locations that require a deep knowledge of the site or area, finding a qualified Guide can be challenging.

You may also need to consider language skills, as many tourists may not speak the local language.

Offering competitive pay, flexible hours and opportunities for further training can help attract qualified candidates.

And there we have it.

Today, we’ve journeyed through the intricate maze of what it means to be a tour guide .

Guess what?

It’s not just about pointing out landmarks.

It’s about weaving captivating stories, connecting cultures, and painting vivid pictures of history, one tour at a time.

With our handy tour guide job description template and real-life examples, you’re ready to take the next step.

But don’t stop just yet!

Venture further with our job description generator . It’s your go-to resource for crafting meticulous job listings or polishing your resume to perfection.

Every tour, every story, is a piece of the larger tapestry.

Let’s weave those tales. Together.

Reasons to Become a Tour Guide (Unleash Your Inner Storyteller!)

How to Become a Tour Guide (Complete Guide)

Disadvantages of Being a Tour Guide (Missing Personal Peace!)

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The Editorial Team at InterviewGuy.com is composed of certified interview coaches, seasoned HR professionals, and industry insiders. With decades of collective expertise and access to an unparalleled database of interview questions, we are dedicated to empowering job seekers. Our content meets real-time industry demands, ensuring readers receive timely, accurate, and actionable advice. We value our readers' insights and encourage feedback, corrections, and questions to maintain the highest level of accuracy and relevance.

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Team Wanderlust | 31 July 2018

Get paid to travel: become a tour leader.

Do you have what it takes to become a travel guide? It can take you all over the world, but you'll need buckets of passion, endless knowledge and a big dose of patience...

Let’s get this straight: it is a ‘proper job’. Sure, you’ll lose your fear of Monday mornings. And yes, your ‘office’ may be a Kenyan national park, a Himalayan valley or a large area of Amazon jungle. Your friends will think you get paid to go on holiday again and again – a kind of Groundhog Holiday, if you will.

But don’t be deceived: tour leading for an adventure travel company is very much a proper job. The hours are long (when have you worked nine months without a day off?), you’re on call 24/7 and, while it may look easy, behind the scenes it’s a huge amount of work. Your job could be described as being like a swan on water - graceful and calm on the surface, with your legs frantically paddling underneath.

What jobs are there?

Tour leading is not a single job – there are many different kinds of tours, like driving overland trucks from London to Cape Town, or leading rambling groups around the vineyards of Tuscany. There are jobs touring the general sights of countries, sailing the Nile in a dhow, guiding safaris, mountain biking, doing European cultural tours, riding horses, carrying out conservation work, or leading family trips.

Some are more extreme than others – the skills needed for leading a centre-based holiday in the Pyrenees are very different from those required to climb a Himalayan peak or lead a jungle expedition.

What's in it for you?

A lot of travel, of course. You’ll find that leading gives your travel a new depth – when you're working alongside locals, they'll see you as an equal, not as a customer. What other job would let you build a deep friendship with a Vietnamese waitress or a Berber muleteer? Ask most leaders what they most like about the job and the answer won’t have anything to do with travel. You'll learn a lot about yourself, developing your interpersonal and leadership skills in ordinary and extraordinary situations. It's also a job with real autonomy – your boss may be 12,000 miles away!

What are the downsides?

All of these plus points have their down sides. You might repeat the same two-week itinerary ten times, yet you have to be as fresh on the tenth as you were on the first. Whatever goes wrong, you have to deal with it, whenever it happens. Your clients might be rude, your transport connections could be late, or not turn up at all. Yours and your clients' personal belongings can be stolen, or worse, your clients could get ill - and that's all your responsibility to deal with. As well as all of those negatives, it can also be lonely work - having to spend long periods away from your close friends and family.

How to get a job as a travel guide

• Don’t apply unless you are well travelled. Ideally you’ll have explored some unusual parts of the globe and been on some extended trips, such as a career break. But remember, the most important thing isn’t travel – it’s people.
• Stress your people and leadership skills. Anything you can do to prove that you have experience of a service industry, and of leading or teaching people, will be a great benefit.
• Get an understanding of what is required. Research the job thoroughly by checking out all the web-links listed, and getting to know the style of the company you are applying to.
• Visit travel shows and exhibitions. Prove that you’ve done your research and that you aren’t just acting on a whim. Companies will need to see that people are serious about the job.
• Go on a trip with the company you are applying to.  It'll give you a great insight into what it's like to be part of a group on holiday and see a real-life tour leader in action. While you're there, ask the tour leader exactly what they're doing on a day-to-day basis.
• Make sure you have specialised skills, such as a foreign language or a PCV driving licence. While they aren’t essential for all jobs, they are for some, and give you a great advantage. Knowledge of first aid, or specific country knowledge, is also good.
• Be ready to answer the question: “What would make you a good tour leader?” It’s an obvious question, and if you can’t answer it fluently, you shouldn’t be applying.

A word from a pro: Nick Nikolsky

Nick worked as a full-time tour leader over many years, covering everywhere from the faroe islands to cambodia. so how did he do it.

“In my gap year I worked abroad teaching English, then after uni as a diving instructor. I saw an advert for a tour leader in Wanderlust (honest) and applied for the job, expecting to do it for a short while. I ended up doing it full time for five years.

“My first trip was a walking tour in Slovakia. I had been trained in the UK and abroad on an actual walking trip and knew roughly how leading worked, but I was nervous at having to look after 16 people for two weeks all on my own. Needless to say I didn’t let the group know it was my first trip! By the end of the fortnight, I knew this was what I wanted to do as a job.

“You start getting a lot more than just travel experience when you’ve done the job for a year. You build up your people-handling skills, you encounter and solve strange new problems – all of which are great skills for whatever you do in life.”

Top tip: “Be yourself at the interview and if you are enthusiastic about travel and a people person, you should sell yourself without having to try.”

With thanks to Nick Nikolsky, Andrew Aitcheson, Matt Leggett and Debbie Crawford for their help with this guide.

Check out Wanderlust's job site for job opportunities in the travel industry.

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• Be A Better Guide is now Guest Focus

How to Get a Job as a Tour Guide – Tour Guide Jobs

• March 27, 2022

Tour Guide Jobs

Let’s start with some good news. The overall number of tour guide jobs is growing globally, and the UNWTO ( United Nations World Tourism Organization ) reports that global tourism continues to be one of the fastest growing sectors of the global economy! When asking how to get a job as a tour guide, I believe there are at least 7 questions you will need to ask yourself first. This video will go through those questions one by one!

I also share some insights into looking for a tour guide job, discuss some of the advantages of working for a smaller or larger tour company and how you can work as a guide internationally or locally.

How to get a job as a tour guide – Resources

Our amazing Be a Better Guide Team put a lot of effort into researching a list of the largest tour guide employers on the planet. There are over 63 companies on this list that hire guides from all over the world! Use it to research what they are up to and reach out if you are interested in their hiring process.  This free PDF can be downloaded right here  .

Here is another one of our videos that will help you understand the distinction between ‘tour guides’ and ‘tour directors’ . You’ll need to decide which has more appeal to you, as it will mean approaching different companies to get your tour guide career underway!

Here is a list of  101 different tour ideas from our friends over at Tourism Tiger . This list is not only amazingly long, but it also shares company websites for each different tour type. Scroll through for inspiration, or maybe even reach out to some of the companies to find your dream job.

Another list from Tourism Tiger that shares over  92 different places where you can list your tours and activities online . This list will be a big help to you if you are interested in becoming a freelance guide or starting up your own tour company! Furthermore, I highly recommend checking out these listing sites and services, as you can find out what other guides and companies are doing in the area you want to work.

Holy cow… that’s a lot of resources!

I know that the getting a job as a tour guide is not easy, and sometimes it can be discouraging. Hopefully, these resources will help you on your way to finding that perfect tour guide job.

As always, be sure to  join the Be a Better Guide community  for more videos, helpful tools and thoughtful discussions on what it means to lead unforgettable tours.

All the best and happy hunting!

Finished watching ‘How to Get a Job as a Tour Guide’?

In the comments below, share any other resources or websites that you found useful when looking for a tour guide job! And if you haven’t yet, grab our free PDF: 63 Tour Companies that Hire Tour Guides  right here .

Transcript:

Just before we get started, here’s a few things that you’ll never hear on a job hunt. “Boy! I can’t wait to start my job search today.” “Gosh! I wish I could work all of these jobs at once.” “Fulltime mustache model needed, pay is generous.”

Hi! Kelsey Tonner here from beabetterguide.com. Perhaps, you’re here because you’re searching for a tour guide job or maybe you just want to learn a little bit more about the industry.

Either way, I can tell you that there are hundreds and thousands of different tour guide jobs all over the world, and there’s more and more every year. The World Tourism Organization recognizes that global tourism is one of the fastest growing sectors of the global economy, so that’s good news.

It doesn’t necessarily mean that the job hunt is going to be easy or even that there’s necessarily guiding jobs in the place you want to work.

That being said, I put together this video with a few questions that you want to ask yourself when looking for tour guiding jobs. Plus, at the very end, I’ve got an awesome bonus for you to help on your job hunt.

1) Do you want to work in your own country or travel internationally?

This is a pretty big question and it’s going to depend on factors like is there actually tourism in the area you’d like to work.

But as a general rule, it’s easier to get hired as a guide, as a local or national, from the country in which you’d like to work and this makes sense too.

If you think from the traveller’s perspective, somebody who grew up here and spent their whole life here is going to have all kinds of insights into the history, the culture, and etcetera.

But that being said, there’re lots of opportunities where you can work internationally. I’ve had tours in Paris that were delivered by New Zealanders who were studying in Paris, or people from Poland who are working in Croatia or the Czech Republic.

Sometimes, I’ve met national guides who escort groups say from South Korea, so there would be Korean guides who escort them on trips around the world. Those opportunities exist as well.

2) Do you want to be a tour director or a tour guide?

Now, I made a previous video that explained this distinction which I’ll put a link to below.

But very briefly, I think of tour guides as the folks who are with travelers and guests for shorter periods of time, like an afternoon tour or maybe a tour that lasts a couple of days.

Tour guides will tend to have a sort of specific knowledge on a particular topic, let’s say wine making if it’s a wine making tour, or architecture of a city if it’s an architectural tour of a city, or something like the Coliseum if you happen to be leading tours there.

Tour guides can also have specialized skills. If you think of a whitewater rafting guide, they’re probably going to have some paddling skills and rescue skills that go along with that guiding job.

Tour directors or tour managers on the other hand will generally facilitate the logistics of a longer tour or an event, something like a conference.

Now, these can be things like helping with the logistics of transportation, passport and border controls, airport pickups, getting groups and escorting them to restaurants to their accommodation, and often times, they’ll work with multiple guides.

If I’m facilitating a group or leading a group through an itinerary, we might have a wine making tour with the wine making guide, the local guide, on Monday and on Tuesday, we’ll go have that tour of the Coliseum.

Now, much like a tour guide, being a tour director, you can work internationally escorting groups on international itineraries or you can do it in your home country. Most major cities will have something called the destination management company.

If there’s a big event or a conference happening, they’ll work with tour directors and tour managers to help people get out and see the highlights of their country.

Now, you want to think about this distinction, but don’t get too hung up on the terms. There’re lots of companies that use those terms pretty interchangeably and there’re sometimes roles that you can get hired for, they’re kind of a blend of both of them.

3) What type of tours would you like to lead?

Because the tourism industry is so diverse these days, there’re lots of options when it comes to guiding. If you get a job as a brewery tour guide, you’re going to have a very different job than if you’re a fly fishing guide working in some remote wilderness camp.

When it comes to your job hunt, think about what experience you would like to facilitate or what you would enjoy doing on a day-to-day basis and also what skills might make you a good candidate for that job.

Now, to give you some ideas, I’m going to put a link below to 101 different tour ideas. This is going to give you a sense of just how many different tours are operating out there right now, and under each one of those headings there’re some links to actual companies who lead tours in that area.

4) Do you want to work for yourself or work for someone else?

There are pros and cons to both choices. Now, working for yourself, you are most certainly going to have to put in more effort, but the tradeoffs of having more freedom, flexibility, and control over your own business might be worth it to you.

Now, if you’re freelancing and doing this yourself, you will need to be the one responsible for things like licensing, insurance, marketing, sales, and customer service.

But these days, it’s becoming easier and easier to partner with people like TripAdvisor and Viator, getyourguide.com, and Peek just to name a few of the big players who are online tour agents basically who will market and sell your tours for you for a small commission.

There are also peer-to-peer marketplaces, think of Airbnb but for tours and activities. There’re all kinds of websites that are popping up; some of them working, some of them not working.

But I’ll put a link below to another resource which is over 90 different websites where you can list your tour or activity online.

But if you’re interested just in guiding and sort of facilitating that experience and you think that’s what you would enjoy the most, it’s probably the best bet just to work for another company and let them handle the rest.

5) Do you need a license to work where you want to work?

In many highly touristed areas, you actually need a permit or a license to be a tour guide. These are sometimes controlled by national governments or sometimes by municipal or city governments.

Now, in other places, in other parts of the world, it really varies quite a bit. Sometimes you don’t need a license at all. For example, here in Canada, you can work as a guide in Vancouver, in Toronto, and the vast majority of Canada without any kind of license.

However, if you want to be a guide in Montreal or the City of Quebec, you do need a permit.

The best thing to do is to look into your local situation. A good place to start is asking other guides who are already working in that space, and two, try and contact a national tour guide association because they can help with these types of questions.

6) Would you prefer to work for a smaller tour company or a larger tour company?

Smaller tour companies tend to offer more seasonal employment. There tends to be a lot more options to choose from because there are just more smaller companies out there.

And lastly, you tend to have closer relationship with your employers, with your bosses, and even your fellow employees.

Now, larger tour companies can sometimes provide more stability, more work, sometimes better pay, and they can also occasionally provide opportunities for promotion or developing your career.

Now, if you’re interested in working internationally as a global guide, then these large multinational companies are definitely the way to go.

7) What skills can I work on that will make me a strong candidate?

Companies are always looking for enthusiastic, personable, and pleasant people to hire as tour guides.

If you’re a great presenter, if you are organized, and you’ve got a good memory, those are all traits that help and if you’re comfortable leading towards multiple languages, well, that is going to be a huge asset for you as well as any experience you’ve got in the service industry.

If you’re interested in developing those skills or learning more about what makes an incredible tour guide, you should definitely check out www.beabetterguide.com. I hear that site’s amazing!

Now, I can’t quite help you with your local job search just because there’re so many tour guide companies out there, but as a bonus I’ve assembled a list of 63 of the largest tour companies that hire guides and tour leaders every single year.

You absolutely want to check out this list if you’re interested in working for one of the larger tour companies and I think it’s going to be an amazing resource to help you find a job of your dreams. Now, to get that PDF, just use the link below and join up to Be a Better Guide community.

Thank you so much for tuning in today. In the comments below, please share any other advice you would have for job seekers out there, websites that you found useful or resources, please post them in the comments and share this video if you’re inspired.

Thank you so much for being here. I wish you all the luck in the world with your job hunt and I’ll see you next time.

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Conversion Rate Optimization for Tour Businesses

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How to Overcome Objections & Increase Tour Bookings

In this blog post and video, we’ll cover an essential component of high-converting tour sales pages – frequently asked questions (FAQs).

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• Home: Explore careers

Tourist guide

Alternative titles for this job include tour guide, blue badge guide.

Tourist guides show visitors around places of interest like cities, historic buildings and art galleries.

Average salary (a year)

£18,000 Starter

£30,000 Experienced

Typical hours (a week)

28 to 30 seasonal

You could work

freelance / self-employed flexibly

How to become

How to become a tourist guide.

You can get into this job through:

• an apprenticeship
• a college course
• volunteering
• applying directly
• specialist courses run by private training organisations

You could do a travel and tourism qualification like:

• Level 2 Certificate in Travel and Tourism
• Level 3 Diploma in Travel and Tourism

This will give you an insight into the tourist industry and help you develop some of the skills to work as a tourist guide.

Having a language like French, German, Italian or Spanish, or a history qualification can also be useful for this type of role.

Entry requirements

You may need:

• 2 or more GCSEs at grades 9 to 3 (A* to D), or equivalent, for a level 2 course
• 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, for a level 3 course

More Information

• search for courses
• funding advice
• equivalent entry requirements

Apprenticeship

You may be able to gain some of the skills needed in this role through apprenticeships like:

• Level 2 Customer service practitioner
• Level 3 Event assistant
• Level 3 Cultural learning and participation officer

To get onto an apprenticeship, you'll find it useful to have:

• some GCSEs, usually including English and maths, or equivalent, for an intermediate apprenticeship
• 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English and maths, for an advanced apprenticeship
• guide to apprenticeships

Volunteering

Organisations like the National Trust and English Heritage offer opportunities to gain experience as a tour guide through volunteering.

Direct Application

Many people become tourist guides as a second career, for example teachers who want to work during school holidays or actors who need work between acting roles.

If you have customer service, teaching or language skills or you have experience of working with people, you may be able to apply directly.

Other Routes

You can do 3 levels of training to get a tour guide badge:

• level 2 - white badge
• level 3 - green badge
• level 4 - blue badge

You can apply to local tourist guide associations for training, or major tourist attractions that run their own schemes.

Guide London offers blue badge training, which usually takes around 18 months, and some heritage organisations, like York Minster , have their own training courses.

Career tips

An outgoing and friendly personality, plus being able to speak a second or third language, will give you an advantage when applying for jobs. Experience of dealing with the public and giving presentations will also help.

Further information

You can find out more about becoming a guide from the Institute of Tourist Guiding .

What it takes

Skills and knowledge.

You'll need:

• customer service skills
• excellent verbal communication skills
• patience and the ability to remain calm in stressful situations
• to be flexible and open to change
• sensitivity and understanding
• an interest and knowledge of history
• a good memory
• knowledge of English language
• to be able to carry out basic tasks on a computer or hand-held device

What you’ll do

What you'll do, day-to-day tasks.

In this role you could:

• guide people around a castle, gallery, historic house or garden
• escort groups of tourists around a site
• give information about the history, purpose and architecture of a site
• accompany groups on day tours to a number of places of interest
• answer questions and suggest other places to visit
• organise or arrange for additional trips and visits

Working environment

You could work at monuments and castles, in a museum, at an art gallery or in parks and gardens.

Your working environment may be physically active, outdoors some of the time and you'll travel often.

Career path and progression

With experience you could work for a tour operator as a regional tour supervisor or manager.

Current opportunities

Apprenticeships in england, customer service representative - apprentice.

• Wage: £18,720.00 Annually
• Location: Unit 6, Harbour Road Trading Estate, Portishead, Bristol

Apprentice Customer Service Advisor

• Wage: £12,480.00 Annually
• Location: Sittingbourne

Courses In England

• Provider: IFIELD COMMUNITY COLLEGE
• Start date: 01 September 2024
• Location: Crawley

Applied Diploma in Tourism

• Provider: BISHOP HEBER HIGH SCHOOL
• Location: Malpas

Jobs In the United Kingdom

The Find a job service can help you with your search for jobs and send alerts when new jobs become available.

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Search further careers, related careers.

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25 Great Jobs for People Who Love to Travel

Best jobs for travel lovers.

W orking eight hours every day behind a computer screen isn't for everyone. Some people love to travel and want to use that passion to make a living.

If you're constantly planning your next vacation, consider finding a career that fits your lifestyle. Instead of spending all your PTO and hard-earned money traveling once or twice a year, you could get paid while seeing the world. Here are 25 potential career paths to consider.

Disclaimer: The following items provide ideas and inspiration for potential career paths . These are not open job listings, and Business News Daily is not hiring or recruiting for these positions. We advise conducting your own research before pursuing any of these occupations.

1. Athletic recruiter

Source: 8213erika / Getty Images

Colleges and professional sports organizations employ athletic recruiters to travel to schools and sporting events across the country to scout new talent. Of course, you'll need to know the game inside and out, and the specific skills an athlete would require for certain team positions. If you're an avid sports fan, though, this part of the job could be easy for you.

Do you work well with children and know a second language ? If so, becoming an au pair might be a good option for you. Au pairs live with a host family in a foreign country and provide child care services, such as babysitting and schoolwork assistance. 

You'll receive a small salary on top of your room and board, but you also get to immerse yourself in another culture as an extended member of the family. To learn more about becoming an au pair, visit InterExchange .

3. Construction manager

Source: Valeriy_G / Getty Images

Construction managers not only make good money, but they also get to travel. Sometimes, they relocate to different areas and stay for several months to oversee a project. 

Even if you don't have the qualifications to be a project manager, construction companies are worth checking out – many hire support staff to relocate too.

4. Consultant

Companies hire consultants from a variety of fields to fix problems. Because their knowledge is so specialized, a consultant's client base is often spread over the country – or even around the world. 

Additionally, maintaining a positive relationship with clients requires regular on-site visits, making it a perfect job for people who love travel.

5. Cruise line worker

Source: Steve Mason / Getty Images

Working on a cruise ship is a travel lover's dream gig. You make a living seeing the world while receiving free food and accommodations. 

Whether you're a restaurant server, a shop clerk or a performer in the cruise's entertainment lineup, there are opportunities for individuals of all backgrounds to work on one of these floating resorts. Websites like Job-Applications.com list employment openings with some top-rated companies when searching "cruise ship jobs."

6. Engineer

For many industries, jobs are going remote and engineering is following suit. Consequently, you can work from virtually anywhere with a computer science or engineering degree.

Travel the world developing software or flexing your technical graphic design skills . There are currently over 12,000 remote engineering jobs available through LinkedIn alone.

7. ESL teacher

English as a second language (ESL) teachers are in high demand both at home and abroad. When you take a job as an ESL teacher in a foreign country, you'll get to help students understand your native language while immersing yourself in that country's culture. 

You'll need at least a bachelor's degree, ESL training and a special license to get hired. ESLteacherEDU.org offers a step-by-step guide to becoming an ESL teacher.

8. Event coordinator

Source: Tero Vesalainen / Getty Images

Event coordinators might work on local events such as parties and weddings, but orchestrating large-scale events like festivals and trade shows could be the golden ticket for travel lovers. 

In this position you would meet with potential vendors from across the country, then travel to the event location to oversee everything from setup to breakdown. A search for "trade show coordinator" on LinkedIn returns more than 20,000 jobs in various cities.

9. Flight attendant

It may be the most obvious travel-related job, but it's also one of the most accessible. You don't need a specialized degree to become a flight attendant, and most major airlines only require prior customer service experience and certification from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). 

The hours are frequently erratic and the work isn't always easy, but you'll get a glimpse of hundreds of cities across the globe during this career. A bonus perk? Free or discounted flights for you and your family.

10. Foreign Service worker

If you want to combine your love of travel with your love of your country, a career as a Foreign Service officer or specialist could be the right gig for you. The best-known Foreign Service job is a U.S. diplomat, but there are plenty of other career tracks that allow you to meet and interact with foreign governments. 

The U.S. Department of State has details about these jobs listed on its website . With more than 250 embassies around the world, there are plenty of travel opportunities.

11. International aid worker

If you want to travel for a living while making a real difference in people's lives, consider working for an international aid organization like USAID . 

While working for USAID, you can visit struggling countries and help residents recover from dire situations, such as natural disasters and famine. You'll need a background in a related field – such as health, agriculture or education – and a strong interest in social work.

12. International tour guide

Source: william87 / Getty Images

Imagine spending your days guiding fellow travel lovers through a bustling European metropolis, or perhaps a small village is more your style. Wherever you want to go, popular travel destinations always need friendly, knowledgeable guides to lead tourists through city sights and cultural excursions. 

This International Living article offers tips and inside knowledge for aspiring international tour guides.

13. Massage therapist

If you want to visit popular tourist destinations, you should consider gaining skills in massage therapy. You can work for hotel chains, spas, cruise lines or become self-employed.

Licensed massage therapists are always welcomed to soothe and de-stress travelers and locals alike. Although you may start at rookie rates, you can consistently raise them as your clientele and skills grow. Plus, massage therapists generally have a flexible schedule to work full or part time.

The American Massage Therapy Association (AMTA) can help you find training programs, business tools and even discounts on supplies.

14. Peace Corps volunteer

As the title "volunteer" might indicate, you won't exactly be making six figures working with the Peace Corps. But if you don't mind living on a budget, you can become part of a worthwhile organization that lets you travel the world and make a difference in others' lives at the same time. 

Assignments typically last two years and involve advancing education, healthcare, and economic and agricultural development in a community abroad. The Peace Corps also provides housing and health benefits, not to mention an excellent resume talking point .

15. Photographer

Source: Rawpixel / Getty Images

If you're skilled with a camera, consider becoming a travel photographer. While news organizations such as the Associated Press need staff photographers, you can also make a living by freelancing . 

Travel photographers are needed at a variety of locations, including tourist attractions, local events and high-end resorts. Begin your journey by following the steps at Worldpackers or taking a Skillshare course .

16. Retail buyer

For the fashionista with wanderlust, a career in retail purchasing might be the ultimate dream job. In addition to monitoring in-store inventory, retail buyers attend vendor meetings, trade shows and conferences across the country – or even the globe, depending on where the company sources its products. The employee in this position identifies industry and consumer trends, and decides what products the company should sell.

Of course, it's not just clothing stores that hire purchasing agents; most large retail companies employ buyers to help them select and negotiate merchandise deals across various categories.

17. Scuba diving instructor

There is a whole other world beneath the ocean's surface, and you can live it by traveling and teaching the essentials of diving. 

Scuba instructors have the opportunity to see parts of the globe that are often hidden. A great way to get started is with the Professional Association of Diving Instructors (PADI) , which offers training courses and diving guides.

18. Ski instructor 

Source: fisher_photostudio / Getty Images

If you love snow sports and traveling, consider combining your passions to become a ski instructor. There are openings at ski resorts worldwide, including in the United States, France, Switzerland and Canada. 

You can look for other seasonal work when the ski season ends; many places stay open throughout the warmer weather for outdoor activities and still need staff. Begin your search for ski instructor jobs at the Season Workers website.

19. Stagehand/roadie

Theater productions and musicians go on tour all the time – and they take busloads of roadies and stagehands with them. While theaters and venues may have their own stagehands, some still travel with each act. 

You can begin your search for stagehand jobs on the International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees (IATSE) website by finding your local union.

20. Translator

Are you fluent in multiple languages? If so, you could become a translator and travel the world, helping people communicate. Translators must speak at least two languages. 

According to Day Translations , other useful expertise includes computer and business skills. While becoming a translator requires education, the job can offer the chance to visit many countries. 

The countries with the most language service providers (LSPs) include the United States, Great Britain, France, China, Italy, Japan, Luxembourg, Sweden and the Czech Republic.

FYI: According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the need for translators is expected to increase by 24% between 2020 and 2030.

21. Travel agent

Source: LightFieldStudios / Getty Images

Some people may think that the professional travel agent is a dead career in the age of Google searches and travel price comparison websites. While the Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts a slow growth rate in this occupation over the next decade, it's still a rewarding job for anyone who loves to travel. 

Travel agents often visit popular destinations to get firsthand experience of the resorts and restaurants they recommend to offer honest, helpful advice to clientele. Whether your clients are business or leisure travelers, they'll thank you for your insider insight into local sights and activities.

Plus, travel agents can increase their income by starting a YouTube channel, writing a blog, and building relationships with travel products and related brands.

Tip: The five highest-paying travel agent jobs are tour consultant, travel sales consultant, vacation sales advisor, corporate travel agent and reservation clerk, according to ZipRecruiter .

22. Traveling nurse

Traveling nurses move around the country from hospital to hospital, bouncing from one temporary position to the next. You'll be sent to areas where nurses are needed most, and your housing, travel expenses and benefits are often covered . 

As with any nursing position, you'll need credentials from a nursing program to become a registered nurse. Visit TravelNursing.org for more information.

23. Travel writer

Source: grinvalds / Getty Images

It might not be the easiest way to make a living, but if you've got a knack for writing you can share your knowledge about popular travel destinations. Though full-time travel writing positions exist, most of the work you would get is freelance, as publications typically want individuals who can submit firsthand accounts of the location they're writing about. You can search for and bid on freelance travel writing assignments on sites like Freelancer.com and Upwork .

You can also supplement your income by starting a YouTube channel or social media account like Instagram. Providing your travel-hungry fans with visuals can help you connect with your audience, and even build an email list to promote travel services or other products.

24. Truck driver

Long-haul trucking is an ideal job for those who prefer the open road to an office cubicle. Because of the extended time you'll spend driving solo, it's also a great career option for introverts. 

You'll need to obtain a commercial driver's license to start working in this field, but once you have it, you'll be able to see the country as you deliver shipments from one destination to the next.

25. Virtual assistant

As many companies move their business online and employ remote workers, virtual assistants are in high demand. 

Becoming a virtual assistant is enticing because the job can offer a flexible schedule in various niche markets. Workers might even have multiple clients, which will increase spontaneity – and income – in their lives.

Did you know? Hiring a virtual assistant can decrease a company's costs by 78%, because the position only requires the company to provide an hourly rate, not office space, equipment, or benefits. Plus, if you have work experience, you may not need a college degree to snag a VA career.

Virtual assistants can do an assortment of activities, including proofreading articles, providing content or social media strategy, and offering customer support. Some virtual assistants keep their clients organized by making appointments or travel arrangements, and even doing personal shopping.

Julie Thompson contributed to the writing and research in this article .

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Vault Guide to Travel and Leisure Jobs, Third Edition

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The  Vault Guides to Jobs  series provides essential information about key careers and industries, with an emphasis on preparing for a career and getting your foot in the door. Each volume is loaded with up-to-date information on industry trends, employment and earnings statistics, and what employers look for in job candidates. Vault editors have researched and analyzed information from government and industry sources, professional groups, news reports, career and job-search resources, and a variety of other sources to produce these valuable career planning resources. Each volume includes a featured article describing an industry or interest area plus a selection of detailed professions articles. For students making career choices and aspiring professionals planning their career path, these books offer a wealth of helpful information and resources.

Each profession article includes:

• Quick Facts:  a snapshot of important job facts
• Overview:  briefly introduces duties and responsibilities
• History:  describes the origins and history of the job
• The Job:  describes primary and secondary goals and duties
• Earnings:  discusses salary ranges and typical fringe benefits
• Work Environment:  looks at typical work conditions and surroundings associated with the job
• Exploring:  offers suggestions on how to gain experience and knowledge about—or even test drive—a career before making a commitment
• Education and Training Requirements:  discusses required high school and post-secondary education and training
• Certification, Licensing and Special Requirements:  explains recommended and required certifications or prerequisites for the job
• Experience, Skills and Personality Traits:  summarizes the personal traits and skills and professional experience needed to get started and succeed
• Employer Prospects:  gives an overview of typical places of employment and the best ways to land a job
• Advancement Prospects:  presents an expected career path and how to travel it
• Outlook:  summarizes the job’s potential growth or decline in terms of the general economy and industry projections
• Unions and Associations:  lists essential and helpful professional groups
• Tips for Entry:  additional tips for preparing for a career and getting a foot in the door
• For More Information:  lists organizations that provide career information, networking and professional development
• Sidebars:  short features showcasing stats, trivia and insight about a profession or industry

Vault Guide to Travel and Leisure Jobs, Third Edition   covers 31 jobs, including:

• Adventure Travel Specialists
• Amusement Park Workers
• Bicycle Mechanics
• Cruise Ship Workers
• Flight Attendants
• Gaming Occupations
• Hosts/Hostesses
• Inbound Tour Guides
• Lifeguards and Swimming Instructors
• Museum Attendants
• Museum Directors and Curators
• Music Venue Owners and Managers
• National Park Service Employees
• Park Rangers
• Recreation Workers
• Reservation and Ticket Agents
• Resort Workers
• Ship’s Captains
• Ski Resort Workers
• Spa Attendants
• Sports Facility Managers
• Sports Instructors and Coaches
• Stadium Ushers and Vendors
• Strength and Conditioning Coaches
• Tour Guides
• Travel Agents
• Yoga and Pilates Instructors
• Zoo and Aquarium Curators and Directors

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