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are many tour operators both in the United States and abroad,
who are always looking for interesting, dynamic people to lead
their tours. Especially during the summer tourist season, these
operators need extra tour escorts and leaders to handle the
greater number of groups traveling. You can find out about becoming
a tour guide by checking with large travel agencies who specialize
in booking groups. You can call or write to tour operators directly.
If you are fluent in one or more foreign languages and enjoy
working with people, you already possess two of the most valuable
assets for earning free travel as a tour leader.
If you excel in a sport, this can be one
of the most rewarding ways to travel for free. The last decade
has seen an explosion in active adventure travel. Bicycle
tours, rafting tours, horseback riding tours, walking/hiking
tours, snorkeling and diving tours, and golf tours abound.
Name the sport and there is probably a company that organizes
groups around the country or around the world. A good place
to start looking for adventure tour companies is at your local
magazine stand. Check the backs of magazines specializing
in individual sports (Golf Magazine), travel magazines (Travel
and Leisure, Sunset Magazine) or adventure magazines like
Outside Magazine. There are dozens of tour companies specializing
in active trips in nearly every country in the world. They
are always looking for strong, personable guides to take their
groups on tours ranging from 4 days to several weeks.
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