RJames

I generally travel independently and don't hire private guides. For an upcoming trip to South America I have made arrangements with some guides in various cities. What is the correct etiquette for meals? Do I need to invited the guide to dine with me? Am I responsible for seeing the guides lunch? What is appropriate/inappropriate. Sorry if this comes across as a dumb question, I have not worked with private guides in the past when sightseeing and meals need to be coordinated.

Any advise will be appreciated.

Thanks.

Elizabeth_S

Not a bad question at all!

We often hire private guides and like to dine with them at lunch as we find the conversation adds immeasurably to our understanding of the location (politics, lifestyle, etc). We invite the guide to join us (with the implicit understanding we will pay) and they usually do. In some cases the guides decline, as we realize it's their time to decompress during the day. Clear, early communication is the best.

crellston

Like you we rarely hire guides but when we do we would follow Elizabeth's recommendation if only because the informal chat over lunch is often the most informative part of the day in informing and understanding the real lives of the people in the locations we visit. I also usually insist they choose the (non tourist) restaurant .

MarnieWDC

I agree with Elizabeth and Crellston, above.

However, if you are in need of some private or down time, there is absolutely no expectation that you invite the Guide to lunch with you...they are usually familiar with the owners/hosts of the restaurant as they are frequent customers.

flintstones

Feel free to do whatever you want. Guides are open to share some time with customer which might be a great experience for both sides but also it is important you feel well, in some places the guides are freed in reataurants and the fact of sharing a time or not is not relevant for your expenses.
Pls feel free, that is the best way. You should enjoy your time.
Angie/Flintstones