Typical work activities
Tour managers usually accompany groups travelling by coach, although on specialist tours travel may be by mini-bus, car, boat, train or plane.
Typical activities usually include:
development of domestic and international packages by visiting destinations and suggesting interesting travel routes or places of interest;
designing flexible tour packages to meet the needs of different clients;
exploring and identifying new business opportunities in a competitive and rapidly changing industry;
welcoming groups of holidaymakers at their starting point and announcing details of travel arrangements and stop-over points;
checking tickets and other relevant documents, seat allocations and any special requirements;
helping with passport and immigration issues;
helping holidaymakers check-in and settle into their accommodation;
communicating a range of information on itineraries, destinations and culture;
informing passengers of arrival and departure times at each destination on the itinerary and ensuring that all members of the group are back on the coach before departing from each stop;
making sure all travel arrangements run according to plan and that accommodation, meals and service are satisfactory;
organising entry to attractions and transport, such as car hire;
ensuring that the tour is running smoothly for individual members of the group;
responding to questions and offering help with any problems that arise, ranging from simple matters, such as directing a member of the group to the nearest chemist, to more serious issues, such as tracing lost baggage;
dealing with emergencies, such as helping a holidaymaker who is ill or those needing to contact family members urgently;
making contact in advance with places to stay or visit to check details and arrangements;
liaising with hotels, coach companies, restaurants and other clients;
advising about facilities, such as sights, restaurants and shops, at each destination;
occasionally making accommodation bookings on proposed dates;
writing reports and maintaining records;
organising and attending tourism events, conferences, workshops, seminars and exhibitions.