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How Do I Become a Specialist Tour Operator?

Dan Cavallari
Dan Cavallari

A specialist tour operator is a person who guides tourists through a particular region or area in a specific fashion or with a set itinerary. These tour operators focus on a specific experience they want the tourist to have, rather than simply taking them on a tour of various sites in a region. In order to become a specialist tour operator, you may want to complete at least a high school education and get a driver's license. Maintain a clean driving record, and obtain a commercial driver's license (CDL) in order to become a specialist tour operator capable of moving tourists on buses or other large vehicles.

No set level of education is necessary to become a specialist tour operator, but you will need to have an in-depth knowledge of a particular place or region, as you will be responsible for guiding and educating tourists throughout the length of the tour. You can work for a tour company or you can start one on your own; starting a business on your own is difficult and will require a significant amount of preparation and planning, so if you choose this option, you may want to consider taking a business planning course that will prepare you for the process.

Some specialist tours include long bike rides.
Some specialist tours include long bike rides.

Develop good communication skills and a keen interest in meeting new people. If you want to become a specialist tour operator, you will have to interact with a variety of people with different personalities, and you will need to put their comfort ahead of your own. Most importantly, you will need to be trained in first aid and CPR in order to qualify for a position as a specialist tour operator. Accidents can happen on tours, and you will be the first responder if such accidents should occur.

Specialist tour operators should have a commercial driver's license in order to drive buses.
Specialist tour operators should have a commercial driver's license in order to drive buses.

Learn as much as possible about the specialist tour you will be guiding. Some specialist tours, for example, focus on a specific experience — riding a bicycle through wine country in California, for example. Make sure you are both physically and mentally prepared to become a specialist tour operator, especially if the tour will require rigorous or consistent exercise. The tour operator on a bike tour through wine country will need to be prepared not only to teach tourists how to cycle properly and safely, but also how to enjoy the wineries and the scenery. The operator may need to be able to repair bicycles as well, and educate tourists on grapes, wines, and the winemaking process.

Discussion Comments

anon318965

I'm an American living in France and am in constant contact with sports people - coaches, athletes, etc...- who would be interested in seeing how things are done in the US. I can see myself involved in the actual organization and guiding of, say, a group of coaches who would like to meet other coaches, see a game and installations, etc., but not necessarily starting a business to do it. I would like to get in contact with companies that might like to have my services. Any suggestions?

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    • Some specialist tours include long bike rides.
      By: pershing
      Some specialist tours include long bike rides.
    • Specialist tour operators should have a commercial driver's license in order to drive buses.
      By: Alen Ajan
      Specialist tour operators should have a commercial driver's license in order to drive buses.
    • A specialist tour might utilize memorable vehicles to transport tourists.
      By: lucato
      A specialist tour might utilize memorable vehicles to transport tourists.