An on-site tour guide is the one who is working at a selected site. For example: the guide assigned to work at the historical site of Cu Chi Tunnels or the Imperial Citadel of Hue, or on some cruise trips in Halong and Bai Tu Long Bay (join-in tours).

A tour guide will take you on an excursion from one to a few days, away from the main cities. For example, a 2 day trip to Halong Bay or a three-day trip to Mai Chau. This tour guide will meet you at your hotel, often in Hanoi or Saigon, and be with you the whole trip till you finish your trip back safetly at your city hotel.

The role of a tour escort or tour leader, is to meet and greet you at the airport, and to travel with you during your whole trip (in many cases this is a package tour). This is convenient for you because he / she will be with you at all times, helping you with translations, tips and answering questions. This type of guide is covered in the cost of your tour / package with Footprint.

See also other FAQs

How does tipping work in Vietnam? Do you tip in Vietnam?

Are your tour guides / leaders licensed?

Do your local tour guides speak English well?

What languages can your tour guides speak?

Does the leader / guide speak the local language / dialect?

Does the leader / guide hold any formal qualifications?

How long has the guide been doing similar tours?

Are any of the leaders guides first aid trained?

What training has the leader / guide received?

Guides can speak English to what level?

Sufficient number of trained and experienced staff?

How many guides & porters are employed for the expedition?