Group Tours are a very famous
concept in Tourism. It involves people who are keen on visiting and exploring a
common place. Just like a Corporate Group, it has a fixed goal. Thus, it is
important that all Group Members are focussed towards it. In a Tour Group, the
goal is to follow the Travel itinerary in an efficient manner. It is the responsibility of all group members
to coordinate and cooperate with one another. A few months back, we posted a
Blog – “Pros and Cons of Group Tours”, which many of you really liked. In this
Blog, we will share the Basic etiquettes that you should have when in a Group
Tour. The information in this Blog is based on inputs from Travel Guides,
Travel Companies and regular Travelers. Let’s get started…….
1. Tour Guide: Make sure that the
Tour Guide is understanding and cooperative. Half of the issues are solved when
the Tour Guide/Manager is good. Search for Travel companies which have a good
reputation of Tour Guides. This can be known from traveller feedback and
suggestions. Don’t try to manipulate or influence the Tour Guide/Manager. This
will annoy other members.
2. Manipulation/Favouritism: it is the responsibility of all Group members
to be transparent to each other. Any form of Manipulation or partiality can
piss off other member. You should keep the interest of everyone. Also, Tour Guides/Managers should make sure
that manipulative behaviour is not entertained in the Group.
3. Punctuality: The Group is
dependent on one another. Actions of a single member can affect the schedule of
everyone. Everyone hates latecomers. They don’t want their trip to be spoilt
because of a jerk who cannot be on time. We have seen cases where a one-minute
delay spoilt the schedule of the whole day. On an Airport, planes have fixed
landing and take-off slots. If they miss the slot, they have to wait a lot.
Similarly, Tour itineraries have time slots of each activity. A small delay can
have a knock-on effect on the Tour.
4. Be Polite and Courteous: All
Group members must be Polite and Courteous to everyone. This avoids any unusual
situations, and take care of Group issues. A friendly and Polite person is
loved by all. Also, make sure you don’t fall into quarrels. If you have any
issues, talk to the tour guide/manager.
5. Avoid feeling of Superiority:
Feeling of Superiority should not be there in you. We have seen people
underestimating other Group members because of their spending and cultural
habits. Remember, everybody has paid the same amount for the tour. So, you are
neither above nor below anyone. If you wish to spend more, do it. Don’t give a
feeling of inferiority to others.
6. Follow Majority: As discussed earlier, you cannot force
anything on the Group. Thus, it is important that you follow what the majority
says. You need to adjust a little with the Group.
7. Adjustment: As discussed in the
last point, you need to adjust with every member of the Group. Everyone is
different. Your opinions may/or may not match with the other person. If you are
not ready to make adjustments, don’t travel in a group.
8. Follow Rules: Every Tour Manager
lays down some rules for the group members. Abide by them and avoid any
confrontations. Also, follow the rules and regulations at your travel destination.
A small mistake can affect the whole group.
These were some Basic Etiquettes
that you must follow in a Group Tour. If we have missed something, feel free to
comment down below…...
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