Are travel guides helpful or do they just narrow our experience of a different culture?

A

Antonio

New member
I wanted to ask this question because I feel that travel guides often make sweeping generalisations and stereotypes about people, culture and society, preempting preconceived ideas about a potential destination. I often see other travellers in a cafe for example, reading their guide book rather than actually experiencing the holiday they are having. I find this confusing. Are travel guides just a money making scheme written by people who don't know the truth about a country, or do they have a genuine benefit to travellers and destinations alike?
 
I personally have had guides in Kenya, Tanzania, Egypt, Amsterdam (just a city tour), and Peru. Only one was not so great that was Amsterdam. The others were very serious about providing the best experience. They all loved their country, and were passionate about telling its history. They shared the good and the bad. They showed us the real history, even things that might not be so "tourist friendly". I've had guides invite me to their home and met their wives, and children. They've cooked dinner for me (not part of the trip) They've gone way above and beyond the call of duty because I showed them that I really cared and wanted to learn. I guess what I am telling you is this... if you are passionate about learning about a place, your guide will respond to that (they get so many that just kind of pass through). I personally don't get much from tour books. I get so much more from making friends with the guides. They are real people, and they have real educations about history and places. All you have to do is ask. Hope this helps.
 
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