The free tour phenomenon is taking off, and rightly so, this unique and ultimately bespoke method of sightseeing is quickly becoming the way of the future. Free tours make seeing the city or location accessible to everyone because who are we to say that someone is not allowed to explore the world, only this way you get to tour without being overcharged.
If you have a trip planned to a new city then why not opt for a free tour? There is so much to learn and see, as with any tour, but with the bonus of a more personal experience offered by the tour guide, and without the hefty price tag.
Often when you book a tour the guide will give you the information they have learned or been told and nothing more, whereas with a free tour the guide has usually had up close and personal experiences which come with great stories and thus makes the trip that much more enjoyable.
The care behind the concept.
When you hear the word free tour do not be confused into thinking that there is no cost involved, there is some, to an extent, and you determine what it is. The idea behind the free tour is that you pay for what you get, you determine the price based on how informative, experiential, and unique the tour was and show your appreciation to the guide by your payment.
There are many positives to this method of touring for both parties and what makes it so great is that essentially everyone is a winner at the end of the day. It is also more catered to all demographic of travelers, so whether you are a large family or a solo soul for the day you can get involved – and most likely make friends along the way.
Discovering your tour experience.
There are a few ways to find a free tour, some means more accessible than others, so let’s explore what they are and you can choose one that suits your traveling party.
- Asking around. You can ask your friends or locals in the area you are staying in, there is always someone that knows someone. They will be able to guide you on where to go, the ins and outs, and word of mouth is the quickest form of communication.
- Finding someone specific, majority of the time a local, that has the same interest as you (like cycling or running) and getting them to show you the hidden gems that only locals would know. See where they hang out, where they shop for great deals and see the city from a new perspective.
- It’s no secret the world is a digital platform for everything. And traveling is no different. The tourism industry has boomed recently and why seeing more than ever before is a must. A walking tour is the best and quickest way to immerse yourself in the city. Checking out industry leaders such as Guruwalk free tours is a great way to explore a new country with professionals who love the job for the freedom and experience rather than the paycheck.
- Expat community. See the city with people from your home country who have lived in the area for some time. You get the best of the trip. You see and walk around a beautiful new location, and possibly get to converse in your native tongue or enjoy the trip with others who have fond memories of your country growing up there. Every country has an ex-pat community.
Is a free walking tour for you?
Yes. Without a doubt, and I’ll tell you why.
When visiting a new city you want to have an authentic experience, and this is the best way how to do that. You see the area in a new light, places only locals and the community knows about that are not on any guide pamphlets, and I guarantee you will have a lot more fun.
There is an air of flexibility to this method, you can stay in control of your spending while abroad, and in many cases learn something you won’t read in a travel magazine. The guide also wins in this scenario because they get to do what they love, show their passion for the city they live in, and get support for a cause. The cause of allowing the guide the freedom to plan their path in life, and meet great people along the way.
