Scottish Tourist Guide Association

Interpretation Policy

The Scottish Tourist Guides Association is committed to the accurate interpretation of Scotland’s built and natural heritage as well as the culture of Scotland and its people. We have a national remit to guide throughout Scotland and are the only professional organisation of guides in Scotland, recognised by VisitScotland. As members of the World Federation of Tourist Guides Associations and the Federation of European Guides, we are also committed to high professional standards of interpretation throughout the world.

Our members, known as “Blue Badge” Guides are trained to University standard to be able to bring alive Scotland’s cities, spectacular scenery, countryside and towns, her interesting and unique attractions, castles, whisky distilleries and gardens. We believe that the personal interpretation that can be made by a live guide will enhance a visitor’s experience and support the work of the agencies and private businesses who interpret Scotland’s heritage in other ways. Interpretation must be related to the needs of individual visitors and those needs are always different and varied. This includes the ability to interpret in the visitor’s own language in order to ensure that they have a rewarding experience and go away with lasting good memories of Scotland.

The tourism industry is vital to Scotland’s economy and guides can also help visitors to understand the importance of protection of our natural and built assets and therefore appreciate the need for care and sustainable development. It is vital for Scotland’s heritage that our assets are interpreted in a professional and caring way which will allow for their continued protection and development for our children and grandchildren.

For more information about our interpretation and training, please contact Rosalind Newlands, Training Manager, Scottish Tourist Guides Association, Old Town Jail, St John Street, Stirling, FK8 1EA;

Tel/Fax 01786 44 77 84; email: info@stga.co.uk; website: www.stga.co.uk

Rosalind Newlands, STGA Training Manager

4th September 02