How is this training different from the Tour Guide Certification or other programs?
This is a unique immersive training experience where you will learn and practice on a real-life simulation tour. This will be a hands-on learning experience that will prepare you for almost any situation you will encounter on tour and give you the confidence to lead group tours to multiple destinations anywhere.
Am I required to attend all the online classes?
Because every class builds on the next to prepare you for the in-person field training, we strongly recommend that you make it to every class.
What are the dates and times for the online training classes?
The 5 classes will be held over Zoom from 4:00pm - 5:00pm Pacific / 7:00pm - 8:00pm Eastern(3pre and 2post). Specific dates will be announced once you are accepted and enrolled in the program.
When does the actual Field Training start?
We will begin Day 1 with a full day local city tour and motorcoach safety training. Followed by a by a welcome briefing and reception training.
When will the field training finish?
The training will conclude on Day 5. Our tour ends with a drop at the Los Angeles airport (LAX) at approximately 5:00-5:30 pm (traffic dependent). Please do not make any domestic flight arrangements prior to 7:00 pm.
Does the field training include airfare?
No, you are responsible for arriving to San Francisco and departing Los Angeles for the training.
Will I need to pay for my hotels?
The lodging for the Field Training includes 4 hotel nights (San Francisco, Monterey, Solvang). If you would like to stay extra nights in Los Angeles or arrive early in San Francisco, lodging will be on your own.
Can I arrive early or stay after the training?
If you wish to spend additional nights at the beginning or end of your training tour, please email travel@itmisf.com for assistance. A pre and post night package will be offered at an additional cost, which will provide additional training opportunities.
What if I want my own hotel room?
All pricing has been calculated on a double occupancy basis, if you wish to have your own room, a single supplement will apply and is available as hotel space permits. You may email travel@itmisf.com if interested.
What transportation is provided?
You will travel from San Francisco to Los Angeles and train aboard a professional motorcoach to ensure your safety and comfort for an enjoyable ride.
What is the appropriate dress attire?
Business casual attire is required. Shorts, tee shirts will not be acceptable.
How will luggage be handled?
We ask that you keep to a reasonable weight of 44 – 50 pounds. Max 1 baggage and 1 carry-on. You will be responsible to have your luggage to the motor-coach 30 minutes prior to departure, unless porterage service is included with a designated pick-up time.
What gratuities will I be responsible for?
Gratuities for porters and included meals have been included with your training. It is customary in our industry to leave gratuities for housekeeping, local guides, and drivers (at your discretion). There is no need to tip your ITMI Instructors for your training.
What if I need to cancel?
Once you have confirmed your attendance for this training trip, reservations will be made with all suppliers. Any cancellations made 31 days or more prior to start date of the trip, will be subject to a $350 per person penalty. All cancellations made within 30 days of departure are non-refundable and non-transferable. Travel insurance is STRONGLY recommended to help protect your investment in this trip (check travel insurance terms for coverage).
Do I need travel insurance?
Unexpected situations can come up when you travel. To protect your health and safety we strongly recommend purchasing trip insurance. ( https://itmitourtraining.com/travel-insurance ) ITMI is not in the insurance business so must rely on an insurance company (administrator) and a separate underwriter(s).
Will I need to sign any documents to attend the field training?
All students traveling will have to sign two important agreements. By signing the "Travel Well Pledge", you assume personal responsibility for your own health, to help protect the well-being of fellow travelers, the ITMI Team, our supplier partners and the places we visit. By signing the Waiver of Liability, you assume all risks in the unlikely event you are exposed to, or infected by, COVID-19.
Will you provide any COVID testing for the field training?
To ensure your safety and comfort a pre / post COVID test will be required at no cost to you. You must confirm a negative test within 5-days of the departure and end of your trip. ITMI has partnered with Inspired Diagnostics, who will be sending test kits to your home with instructions on how to do the test and a postage-paid envelope to return to them for testing. Results will be available usually between 24-48 hours. Additional information will be sent to you in a separate email.
What rules or guidelines will I be expected to follow?
We have worked diligently to craft your tour experience in accordance with local laws and guidelines for health and safety including social distancing, face (mask) coverings, capacity controls and COVID-19 testing. Each member of the ITMI team has been trained in enhanced protocols and safety guidelines and will participate in a personal health screening before engaging with guests / passengers. Our commitment to is ensure everyone feels welcomed, cared for and safe. Note that guidelines and protocols are constantly changing and it is the responsibility of the traveler/student to keep updated on any changes both at home and the locations visited on this tour.
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