International Guide Academy

I attended the Academy in March 2015 in Denver. I had launched my own Tour Operating business, Explorer Chick, and felt a certification would add credibility to my company. Attending the Academy was one of the best decisions I made. It was so much more than what I expected. I learned so much about the travel industry including the jargon, inside information, logistics of tours, etc. This alone was invaluable. The curriculum was well thought out and intense. The days were long and the outside research and projects required were time consuming. At times, it was definitely stressful. However, this made me appreciate the program even more. The intensity of the course and work, mimics what you’ll experience directing your own tour. Stress, long days, research, public speaking, sleeping in hotels, etc.
All of the instructors were wonderful, knowledgeable, and entertaining. Our class became our own little organic community. We stay in touch now through Facebook sharing travel insights and our own adventures.
Post class, both Daniel and Frank have been helpful and encouraging to me. They are quick to respond with answers to any questions that I may have.
If this is something you are thinking of doing, SIGN UP!

Despite what the previous reviewer has stated, this class is not a scam. Getting a job is a job… in no way does acquiring ANY certification guarantee work, you have to put into place all of the concepts & tips & tricks that we were taught here. I feel I gained an extreme insiders edge by taking this course. There is vital info that you would never have learned otherwise. There is a «code» in the industry, and unless you know it you will find yourself stumbling from rejection to rejection. I believe that I will succeed in finding work after IGA. It has only been a couple weeks but I’m sure once I use everything they taught me I will acquire work when I start to look for it. I learned so much about myself in the 9 days of the class, my strengths and weaknesses. It allowed me to grow and see where I needed improvement. Last but not least the instructors were personable, helpful, honest & fun. Thanks again IGA!

My son sold his car in order to become a Certified Tour Guide which he did but has never been able to get a job through them. I think this academy is a scam run by father and son. The son doesn’t know what university his father got the PhD from. That right there is very fishy.