FAQ

Q: Are your free tours REALLY free?

A: Yes. We do not charge for our free walking tours, but since this is how we make a living we ask that guests contribute an appropriate tip based on the value they feel they received.

Q: Why are your walking tours free?

A: There are a few reasons why our free tours are free. First, we love to lead tours, and we want to share what we know and love about our city with as many people as possible. It’s something we’d probably do for fun anyway. We are also trying to build a reputation for ourselves as the leading walking tour providers in Canada, so consider the free walking tours a free sample of what we can do!

Q: Aren’t you being paid by hotels and restaurants, or some level of government to do these tours?

A: No. We are an independent tour guide cooperative. Businesses might give us things to give away to our guests or help subsidize the cost of printing our flyers, but we are not on anyone’s payroll.

Q: How much should we tip?

A: That’s entirely up to you – for real!  We can tell you that most walking tours comparable to ours usually cost $25-$30 a person, and those guides are usually tipped on top of that (eek!). We want our tours to be accessible and of great value. Tip what you feel the tour was worth to you.

Q. Who can come on your tours?

A: Anyone and everyone! Our tours are for tourists and locals alike. The more the merrier. Our tours are suitable for any age.

Q: How much walking is involved?

A: We will be walking a couple of kilometres over the course of the tour, but the pace will be relaxed and with the frequent stops and stories, you’ll hardly notice the walking. People of average fitness will have no trouble on our tours. Please wear comfortable shoes and clothing for being outdoors.

Q: Will you go in any weather?

A: We understand that when traveling, your time can be very limited. Unless the weather is extreme (i.e. a storm) we will run the tour as long as people are ready to go at the starting point and are appropriately dressed. If we cancel a tour, we will “tweet” it via Twitter to the website.

Q:  How do you accommodate people with disbilities?

A: Since it is a walking tour, we expect everyone will be able to follow along with the group at a regular walking pace whether it be by foot, or mechanical aid like a wheelchair or electric scooter. Our routes are via public sidewalk and paved footpaths, so following the group on wheels should not be a problem. We want the tour to be enjoyed by everyone, so as long as you can keep pace you are more than welcome along.

Q: What sights are included in your tours?

A: It depends on the tour. We choose sites that are of general interest to a wide audience, and that are historically or culturally significant, or just fun to talk about. Were most fond of the latter…

Q: What makes your tours different from others?

A: We like to think of our tours as being more fun than the typical walking tour. We’re not historians. We’re performers. We are enthusiastic, engaging, and entertaining guys. What matters most to us is you having a great time with us.

Q: I don’t speak English very well. Can I come on your tour?

A: YES! We have led tours for many people who don’t speak English well and our English is very easy to understand. Everyone has fun!

Do you have more questions? Email us at info@ tourguys.ca!