The blue Badge is a mark of excellence in the tourism industry. It is the highest qualification attainable in the tourist guide industry. If you are taking part in a tour hosted by a guide that bears the Blue Badge you are assured of a quality presentation.

The following information provides an insight into what sets Blue Badge tour guides aside from the competition.

The Blue Badge is a mark of excellence in the tourism industry awarded to outstanding tour guides since 1969. The Blue Badge qualification originates from Britain and is recognised internationally.

In order to become a Blue Badge Tour Guide you need to be punctual, have an outgoing personality and be prepared for the unexpected. Blue Badge guides are chosen by regional tourist boards in Britain. They are then trained and assessed by the boards using exams to determine successful candidates.

The training is very thorough and focuses on learning general tourism principles as well as extensive local knowledge. The tuition focuses on not only the learning of information but how to present it too. The course lasts about 18 months and successful candidates are encouraged to carry on amassing information.

Blue Badge Guides are renowned for their range of skills. Over 40 different languages are used by Blue Badge Guides in different areas of the world. Blue Badge Guides are available to provide guides on coaches, trains, boats and for walking parties.

The Guild of Registered Tourist Guides is the national association for Blue Badge Tourist Guides working in Britain. The Guild of Registered Tourist Guides was established in 1950 to ensure and maintain high standards amongst Blue Badge Tourist Guides.

The Guild helps its members by providing support and resources on a range of issues related to the tourism industry. These may range from services offered by tour guides, information on coach tours and advice on health and safety issues.

The Guild represents the views of over 2,000 members throughout The British Isles and Northern Ireland. The Guild is a well known name amongst local councils and constituencies. The Guild is non-political and acts as a consultative organisation offering information when required on issues relating to the tourism industry.

The guild itself acts as a representative body for Blue Badge Guides and doesn't directly book guild members itself. The guild does publish a directory each year with details of guides available to contact.