One of the perks of having travelled substantially accross Europe (and imagine if that expanded to the entire world, but it is not my case yet), is that you get to make a large number of friends spread all over the map. Who, at their turn, will get to visit you or your city at some point in time. Are you ready to organize a city tour, and make your friends familiar with your city, in all seasons? You and I may not be qualified tour guides, who are non-stop walking-talking encyclopedias, but at least we can do the basics in a decent way. Well, I must admit that by now I have gained a fair share of experience, and here is what I learnt.
... inform yourself (or refresh your memory) on the most important touristic attractions, and if possible, group them in time and space slots.
... choose the most interesting and pitoresque places, as well as places which highlight the national/local culture. In other words, shopping malls are present everywhere in the world and your friend has them at home too! :)
... learn some factual information on those attractions, in order to present them correctly to your friends. A little bit of history, geography or architecture knowledge goes a long way.
... only show and draw attention to what is positive about your city. Don't take your friend to ugly or dangerous places to show him something 'sensational'. That is, if you still want him to come back. So, be a good PR for your city.
... choose venues that are suitable for the season and for the weather. Maybe a long walk in the park on a freezing winter day or on a 40 degrees summer lunchtime is a bad idea, just like it is to spend most of the day in closed spaces on a day which is just perfect for outdoor activities.
.... find out if there are any particular cultural events in town, and take your friend there if you believe they'd be interested. But beware: if there is local language involved, and your friend doesn't speak or understand it, that event wouldn't be your best bet.
... when it comes to food, again, choose traditional restaurants. There is no point taking your Italian friend to eat pizza in Romania: he will only find it a bad copy of his own national food. Plus, if you know a restaurant with a traditional artistic programme or atmosphere, that's even better!
... keep budget in mind, both when choosing the venues, and, if it is the case, also when you recommend a place to stay. A tourist who is still a student will not have the same budget as a professional of some top-notch company.
... be prepared to be also a translator and an interpreter, if you get to a place where English is not spoken, or if your friend himself does not speak it.
... last but not least, make sure your friend is safe and comfortable all the time. For example, if he arrives alone in the middle of the night at the train station, don't let him find his way to your house by himself, amongst strange faces. Instead, pick him up by car or by taxi. Also, make sure you won't put their health and well-being at risk, and, in case of emergency, act as promptly as you can.
As you can see, it is not very difficult. All it takes is some advance preparation, good will, consideration, and lots of energy. And of course, don't forget to enjoy your friend's company, and to enjoy the city through their eyes, as if you were experiencing it for the first time as well. The result? You will have fun and create wonderful memories together. And maybe who knows... maybe one day you decide to become a certified tour guide. ;)
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