Context tours allow curious travelers to see a destination not as a tourist, but as an intellectual. They give you the information, knowledge and experiences needed to form an opinion on a given place based on accurate history, local culture and more, rather than popular attractions and tourist traps. In fact, context tours are referred to as walking seminars, rather than tours, for their educational aspect, and only allow six or fewer individuals in a seminar, to ensure one-on-one interaction with your local guides or, as they call themselves, docents. All docents are scholars with advanced degrees in a particular field of study.
So, where is the perfect place for you to take a context tour? Any destination can offer a fascinating context, but you want to be sure it’s one that will thoroughly interest you, and you don’t want to bring along fellow traveler who may not share those interests.
Currently, you can find tours in 21 European, eight Asian, three South American and six North American destinations. Think of why you’re visiting a destination first, and then decide if it’s the right time and place to dive into an educational experience. If you’ve always been fascinated by Greek history and culture, but just so happen to be in Buenos Aires for spring break, it may be best to save the tour for your trip to Athens at a later date.
When you do decide to sign up for a tour, you’ll be asked about your age and occupation, so the docent can tailor the tour to fit your interests and background. Each tour is different and unique, but you can start from a point of interest in your destination. For example, you may choose a Vatican tour led by an art historian, a Hong Kong tour focusing on colonialism or a tour of New York’s 42nd Street led by an architect.
Whatever your interest, there’s definitely a “walking seminar” for you. Context tours can be an enriching experience that will completely change your outlook on a destination.
Pricing varies according to tour, though most are less than $100 per person.
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