Guides take refresher course

AGRA: As many as 136 regional level guides are taking part in a 12-day refresher course arranged by the ministry of tourism in collaboration with Indian Institute of Travel and Tourism Management (IITM).The guides are being apprised about technology advancements which they can put to good use while giving tours to foreign tourists in the district.Moreover, guides will also be given trainings in following code of conduct and inculcating cross-culture etiquettes.Sanjay Sharma, president, Approved Guides Association (AGRA), "Technology has drastically changed over the time and tourists are already well aware of the histories associated with places and monuments."It is the need of the hour that guides also upgrade themselves and be aware of modern trends of tourism & technology, changing tourism business environment and foster standards of quality and professionalism. The course aims at equipping them with this kind of knowledge."Talking about the course content, Sharma said should be well-versed in giving virtual tours to tourists using tablets and laptops. There are many areas of a monument where one cannot reach or see, and virtual tours comes in handy in such a scenario.He added that guides should also be aware of the cultures of different countries. "For instance, a foreign guest might get offended if someone stands very close to him or her. The course intends to make them aware of those cross-culture etiquettes."A special session on imparting knowledge on regional flora and fauna has also been arranged.