Travelling with people you know or joining a group tour where people from different walks of life require more understanding and a higher level of self awareness, is very common today.
Guided tours are a great way to see a lot of the city in a shorter span of time.
Guides know the best pathways and the fastest way to get from place to place. However, there are multiple things and instances that even the best travel agency wants to avoid. Here’s a list of DONT’S when you travel with a group or a travel guide.
1. Don’t be LATE
When you show up late on tours, it’s a big deal. A few minutes shaved off the experience may not seem like a problem to you, but it can throw off the tour guides whole day. When people are late, the tour has to start later. Not to forget the wait that other members of the group have to go through.
2. Don’t come UNPREPARED
Your tour guide or the travel agency you have booked are only responsible for their needs. They will not carry umbrellas, raincoats, sunscreens or water bottles for you. It is wise and saves time and trouble when you bring along your needful with you.
3. Don’t ignore PERSONAL HYGEINE
Out of respect for the people you’ll be spending an extended amount of time with, potentially in cramped quarters, make sure you’re taking care of yourself in a hygienic sense. Some tours are walking and you may sweat, it’s to be expected, so prepare accordingly and stock up on your deodorant. And keep a change of clothes if necessary.
4. Don’t lose TEMPER over everything
To avoid conflict while travelling in a group of varying personalities which can sometimes be unavoidable, learn to let some things go. Avoid taking everything personally; sometimes people can be irritable when things do not go according to plan. Engaging other people’s bad temper will not help anyone.
5. Don’t be inconsiderate.
If you had the best seat or the best sleeping space during the first half of the trip, offer the same opportunity to others. If everyone is paying the same amount, everyone should be able to enjoy the same perks.
6. Don’t forget to live in the moment.
Learn to enjoy the experience while you’re experiencing it. Snap a picture or two, than put your gadgets away; you don’t have to document everything you see or do. By living in the present moment, you allow yourself to better appreciate everything that comes your way.
Travelling is fun. Always is. However a few key things that need to be kept in check for a smooth functioning tour.
