5 Reasons to hire a private travel guide

Miriam and I at the Shakespeare Bookstore in Paris

My Experience with private travel guides

I just came back from a 5-day trip to Paris. I went to Photo Paris and wanted to spend time reacquainting myself with the city (the last time I was there was in 2000). I only had one day to play the tourist, and I wanted to make the most of it. I bought a few travel guides, chose the areas I wanted to focus on, and wrote out my list.

While I was going down the Paris rabbit hole on the internet, Monica, a friend who works as a private guide in London, called me. I welcomed the interruption to get off the computer and have a good chat. I told her what I was doing, and she suggested hiring someone to make my tourist day more manageable and more time-efficient in Paris.

Monica was right. I had spent the day with her during one of my trips to London. She took me to unique places, non-touristy spots, and she made my day so easy because she planned out all the public transportation. Everything flowed with her guidance – why hadn’t I thought of this myself? Her idea was great.

Enter Miriam, a Brazilian guide in Paris. Miriam is a certified guide who has lived in Paris for many years, speaks the language well, is passionate about the city, and knows how to get around expertly. She is devoted to her work, and she will take care of you like no one else! She fills the walks with historical stories and interesting tidbits, and points out the unique details that you don’t want to miss.

Miriam and I during the Paris by Night private tour

1. Private travel guides customize your trip

One of my must-do’s in Paris was night photography. I had taken a tripod on a plane once – only for it to be confiscated at the security gate. Miriam suggested that I buy one and deliver it to her house. It was great to have that tripod when I met up with her for our Paris By Night walk.

I had a list of things to buy in Paris, both specific and hard-to-find items, so I asked Miriam if she could help me find them. She sent a list of resources near my hotel, which made shopping for my items convenient and accessible, without a ton of travel time. Once I was in Paris, I wanted to dine at a good Asian restaurant, and she sent a few options my way. It was good to get tried and true recommendations, from a trusted source

Photo by Miriam

2. My private Paris by Night Photo Tour

I love night photography, and Paris is the perfect spot for this. All that gorgeous architecture, the city lights… Paris is magical at night.

My night photo tour started at a fountain near the Hotel de Crillon, where I enjoyed seeing the city lights go on, contrasting beautifully with the dark blue sky. We walked around the neighborhood, took photos of a few choice Christmas lighting, took a metro to another area, walked and photographed a lot.

It was lovely to have someone with me who could point out different things and take me to other places. We made the most of our four hours, and I believe that I got some great shots. We ended our tour at a great restaurant where I ate confit de canard for my last meal in Paris.

3. Make your travel dreams come true

I told Miriam that I wanted to spend one-day visiting places I missed on my previous trips. I also wanted to see a few vintage stores – but those were to be explored on my own, and oh! Most importantly, I wanted to stop by patisserie shops to look at the displays, taste a few samples, and take it all in.

Teat Time!

My day had to end at the Mariage Frères for tea, and the more I thought about the tourist day, the longer my must-do list became. While my excitement for the Paris trip was growing, it was also becoming increasingly complicated.

Miriam took a long look at my list and organized it so that we were able to do most of the things I wanted. We went to different neighborhoods, walked, took buses and metros, and even had a great lunch at one of the oldest restaurants in Paris. The day flowed nicely, with very little time wasted on back and forth travel time.

4. Avoid this during your solo trip

If I had done the research and planning on my own, it would have taken a lot of time to create my tourist day, and I don’t have a good sense of direction (I’m always getting lost).

I took a few breaks from the Paris Photo fair, and on one of those outings I took a wrong turn. I found myself on some narrow little street, my phone didn’t have a signal, and I didn’t know which way to go to the closest metro station.

It was dreadful! It took me more than an hour to get back on track, and when you are only traveling for five days, you don’t want to spend time trying to find your way around!

5. A private travel guide will make bookings

A private guide is the best investment that you can make!

Yes, I know you can get tons of books and do your research, and I suggest that you still do that. I do; I like to know general information about a place I’m going to, and I love doing travel research because it mentally prepares me for my trip. But a travel guide can help you tweak your trip and give you lots of local suggestions that you would never get in a book, as well as provide information on the ins and outs of practical transportation.

Photo by Miriam edited by me

Miriam helped me do a lot of the pre-planning, and by the time I was in Paris, I was all organized! She took the stress of planning off my shoulders, helped me with the hotel transport, suggested which public transportation card to get and how to go about it.

Miriam also gave me tips on a few restaurants near and far from my hotel.  A private guide is very helpful, and I was so happy with the two tours that Miriam planned for me.

Work with a recommended guide

When you hire a knowledgeable travel guide like Miriam and Monica, you will get more than someone to just show you around. You get a support system and someone who will meet your needs. You can bounce off ideas, ask them to plan a solo walking trip for you (or go with you), and they save you so much planning time with their knowledge of the city.

Both Monica and Miriam help you plan your trip so that everything will run smoothly. You can choose to work with them for one day, do a pre travel plan or a fantastic day tour.

Guides offer different services, they can include ticket bookings, transport plans, reservations, and itinerary creation.

There is another excellent reason to work with a private travel guide, and this is for you, my fellow solo travelers: Great companionship!

FAQ: 10 Tips for Hiring a Great Travel Guide

Hiring a knowledgeable travel guide can be a game-changer if you’re planning a trip and want to make the most of your experience. Here are 10 essential tips to help you find the right one:

1. What qualifications should I look for in a travel guide?
Look for guides who are licensed or certified, especially in destinations where guiding is regulated. Certifications often mean they’ve passed exams on history, culture, and safety.

2. How do I verify their expertise in the area I’m visiting?
Choose guides who specialize in the region you’re exploring. Check their reviews on platforms like TripAdvisor or ask for references. Study their sites and how they write about their work.

3. Is it better to book a guide in advance or hire one on the spot?
Booking in advance is safer, especially during peak travel seasons. That way, you will get a reputable guide who matches your interests and schedule.

4. How can I ensure the guide will cater to my interests?
Ask specific questions before booking. For instance, if you’re into art, history, or food, find a guide who shares or specializes in those passions.

5. What should I budget for hiring a travel guide?
Compare rates to other guides online. Rates vary widely depending on location, experience, and duration. Private tours tend to cost more than group tours, but they offer personalized attention. Always clarify costs upfront, including tips and extra fees.

6. Should I prefer freelance guides or guides from agencies?
Freelance guides often provide more flexibility and personal touches. Agency guides, however, may offer a more standardized experience. Choose based on your preferences for personalization versus consistency.

7. How can I tell if a guide will be a good communicator?
Pay attention to how they respond during initial contact. Are they prompt, friendly, and clear? Good communication skills are crucial for an enjoyable experience.

8. What questions should I ask before booking?

• How long have you been guiding?
• Do you have experience with travelers like me (e.g., families, seniors, solo travelers)?
• What’s your cancellation policy?

9. Should I prioritize guides fluent in my language?
Language fluency is key to understanding your guide’s explanations. 

10. How do I handle feedback or dissatisfaction during the tour?
Be polite but honest. Let your guide know if you feel something isn’t meeting expectations. Most guides are eager to adapt and ensure you have a great experience.

Bonus Tip: Trust Your Instincts

If something feels off during your initial interaction, trust your gut. A good guide will make you feel comfortable and excited about your trip from the start.

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Updated January 2025