The International Guild of Battlefield Guides is a member of the European Tour Operators Association (ETOA).
As an organisation representing battlefield guides, we believe that our membership of ETOA which allows our Guild members to apply for an ETOA card is a very valuable benefit. See below why this is the case!
ETOA is a trade association lobbying for better tourism in Europe. It works to enable a fair and sustainable business environment, so that Europe remains competitive and appealing for residents and visitors. It has over 1200 members representing most areas of the industry, and is a powerful voice at local, national, and European levels.
For more information about ETOA, please refer to their very informative website https://www.etoa.org/ where you will also find up to date travel information and advice.
ETOA issues Tour Guide ID cards to its members for guides engaged by them.
The main objective of the ID card scheme is to support the freedom of tour guides working in Europe to deliver cultural commentary to tourists in public places without interference. The card has proven to be of practical assistance in this respect.
Tour guides provide a service that consumers want; those engaged by the many tour operators and specialist service providers are carefully selected and well suited to the role. ETOA contends that it is both anti-competitive and unreasonable that anyone should seek to prevent such individuals from doing their job.
Difficulties do remain however: national and regional legislation; the use of standards for political ends; local enforcement practice; hostility from a minority of local guides and related disruption. ETOA continues to work with its members, EU bodies, universities, accreditation bodies, tourist boards and others to develop ways of recognising tour guides and supporting their access to market, thereby promoting mobility.
Another very attractive benefit of being an ETOA card holder is that it enables the guide holder to gain access to most European museums, galleries, and other similar attractions without charge. That benefit alone should pay for the cost of the card, particularly when conducting recces for tours.
A Member of the Guild can apply for an ETOA Tour Guide Card (valid from 1 April) through the Guild once the Guild subscription for the year has been paid (subscription year also from 1 April).
Issued cards will be sent to you via the Guild if you ask for a physical card. If you request a digital ETOA card, it will be available immediately, but you must pay your Guild subscription prior to applying for it.
To get more information about and apply for an ETOA Tour Guide Card visit https://www.etoa.org/tour-guide-card/