My Role as Tour Guide

When I guide a bus tour, storytelling and service matter—but safety is my first task and constant focus. Below I share what I’m responsible for on every departure and the practical concerns that sit behind my safety briefings.

What I’m officially responsible for

• Duty of care: Keep passengers informed and prepared; coordinate calmly with the driver in any incident.

• Safety communication: Deliver clear, concise briefings about seat belts, emergency exits, window hammers, and the fire extinguisher.

• Housekeeping: Keep aisles and exits unobstructed; discourage standing while the coach is moving; manage luggage overflow.

• Accessibility and inclusion: Make sure instructions are understandable for everyone (language, hearing/vision, mobility).

• Incident documentation: If something happens, record facts (time, location, actions taken, equipment used) and support follow-up.

Concerns when guiding on a bus

1. Seat-belt non-use.

   • Concern: Even at low speeds, sudden braking can injure unbelted passengers.

   • What I do: I point out belts visibly, remind gently but firmly, and re-announce after each stop.

2. Blocked exits or crowded aisles.

   • Concern: Bags near doors/windows slow evacuation.

   • What I do: Quick aisle walk before departure; I ask for bags under seats or in overheads, never in exit paths.

3. Unfamiliarity with emergency tools.

   • Concern: In an emergency, hesitation costs time.

   • What I do: I physically indicate the emergency exits and window hammers and explain how to strike the corner of the window. I also point out the fire extinguisher and stress that evacuation comes first.

4. Passenger movement while driving.

   • Concern: Slips or falls in the aisle, especially during turns or braking.

   • What I do: I ask everyone to stay seated with belts fastened; restroom breaks are scheduled stops, not rolling visits.

5. Mixed languages and noise levels.

   • Concern: Key instructions lost in translation or chatter.

   • What I do: I keep a short, plain-language script; I use gestures and, where possible, visual aids or a printed card.

My pre-departure routine (every time)

• Check the bus: the condition of seats, belts, cleanliness, emergency exits, window hammers, fire extinguisher, and first-aid kit.

• Check that aisles and exits are clear; ask for any items to be stowed properly.

Starting the Tour
Welcome to ABC. I am Zayera, your tour guide for today. Our bus driver today is XYZ.

• Before we set off, a quick safety note:

• Seat belts: Please keep your belt fastened while seated; as it is mandatory in this country and for your safety.

• Emergency exits: Besides the main doors, exits are clearly marked, including roof hatches. In an emergency, leave bags, follow our instructions, and move to a safe spot away from the road.

• Window hammers: Red hammers are mounted by selected windows. If told to use them, strike the window’s corner, clear the glass, and exit carefully.

• Fire extinguisher: Show location. The driver and I will handle it unless you are at a small, contained fire with a clear exit. People first, always.

• If you need extra assistance or have questions, please tell me now. Thank you and enjoy the journey.

If something happens

• Stop, assess, instruct: short, clear commands; keep passengers calm; assist those who need help first.

• Evacuate if there’s smoke, fire, fuel smell, or risk near traffic; move upwind and uphill if possible.

• Account for the group at a safe assembly point; do not re-enter the vehicle unless directed.

• Report and record facts only; support the driver and authorities.

How passengers can help me keep everyone safe

• Wear the seat belt throughout the ride.

• Keep aisles and exits clear, especially around doors and window hammers.

• Listen the first time—in an emergency, seconds matter.

• Tell me privately if you need extra help (mobility, hearing, language).

On the Road, My First Duty Is Your Safety: A Tour Guide’s Responsibilities and Real Concerns

A sample of a short bus guiding from Voss to Gudvangen

Journey to the Fjords: From Voss to Gudvangen

Our journey to the fjords starts in the historic town of Voss. This area has been an important and wealthy community for centuries

Historic Voss ⛪

Keep an eye out for the Voss Stone Church. It was built in 1277 and is a true survivor. The stone church stood firm when German bombs destroyed much of the town during World War II.

Voss is known for its unique culture. It's the home of Smalahove, a traditional dish of sheep's head. Today, Voss is also famous as the extreme sports capital of Norway, hosting a major festival every year.

Waterfalls and Legends

Our first stop is the Tvindefossen waterfall. We will only stop for a few minutes. Legend claims that its water, which flows from two different sources, grants eternal youth.

As we drive, you might think of old Norwegian legends about trolls. These stories come from ancient Viking beliefs and were an important part of the culture.

A Brief History of Norway 🇳🇴

This land has a fascinating past.

• The Viking Age started with the first raid in England in 793 AD. It ended in 1066 at the Battle of Stamford Bridge.

• Union and Hardship: After the Black Death plague, Norway was united with Denmark for over 400 years. It was later forced into a union with Sweden, which lasted until 1905 when Norway became independent.

• Modern Norway: Norway was a poor country for a long time, and many people moved to the USA. Everything changed with the discovery of oil in the 1960s. This has made Norway one of the wealthiest countries in the world.

Views from the Road

Look at the colors of the traditional houses as we drive. The paint color used to show a family's wealth.

• Red paint was the cheapest and was often used for barns.

• Yellow paint was more expensive.

• White paint was the most expensive, so a white farmhouse meant the owner was very wealthy.

Welcome to the Nærøyfjord

After driving through several long tunnels, we arrive in Gudvangen. This tiny village sits at the very end of the magnificent Nærøyfjord.

The Nærøyfjord is a UNESCO World Heritage site. It is famous for being one of the narrowest and most dramatic fjords in the world. Its sheer cliffs rise straight up from the water. The unique, hard rock in the area is why the glacier carved such a deep and narrow path.

Enjoy your time here in the heart of the Norwegian fjords!