21 February 2024
Seychelles Minister for Foreign Affairs and Tourism, Sylvestre Radegonde has given a special message in commemoration of the International Tourist Guides Day (ITGD).
To celebrate the skills of professional tourist guides in their localities the World Federation of Tourist Guide Associations (WFTGA) initiated the International Tourist Guides Day on or near the 21st February every year. This commemorates the day when the WFTGA was formed and since the 1990s, guide associations have offered free tours and events to local people to showcase our skills in our own communities.
In 1990, Mrs. Titina Loizides, president of the WFTGA was involved when it was held for the first time, 15 countries participated. Since then, tourist guides in an ever growing number of countries have been giving help to their local communities, conducting tours for disabled persons, disadvantaged persons, for children, industry partners, officials and the general public.
Events are also held for local tourist guides including presentations and retraining courses. It is a public relations event par excellence, drawing the attention of local authorities, fellow citizens and the media to the quality and value of the work of professional tourist guides. Each member country contributes to the success of the day in its own way; coach companies have contributed complimentary coaches, attractions and museums have opened their doors without charge. Each year, awareness grows and there is an increasing contribution by both regional and national governments to the International Tourist Guide Day.
Below is the message issued by Sylvestre Radegonde:
“As we commemorate International Tourist Guides Day today, Wednesday 21st February 2024, it is a perfect occasion to acknowledge and honour the vital role that tour guides play in our tourism sector.
Tour guides are the heart and soul of our tourism sector, serving as ambassadors who not only showcase the beauty of Seychelles but also share our rich history, culture, and heritage with visitors from around the world.
Beyond being knowledgeable about the destination, our tour guides possess the remarkable ability to connect with travellers on a personal level, ensuring their safety, comfort, and satisfaction throughout their journey. Through their professionalism and enthusiasm, they have the ability to elevate the overall tourism experience, encouraging visitors to return and recommend Seychelles to others.
On this special day, I extend my deepest gratitude to all Seychellois Tour Guides for their persevering dedication to showcasing the wonders of Seychelles to the world. Their commitment and efforts significantly contribute to the success and growth of our tourism industry.
Let’s come together to wish our Seychellois Tour Guides a Happy International Tourist Guides Day, recognising their invaluable contributions to our tourism industry.”
Sylvestre Radegonde
Minister for Foreign Affairs and Tourism
