International Greeter Association
FAQ – Questions about Greeters
FAQ for guests
How can I find a destination?
You can use the top menu (Find a Greeter) or simply follow this link.
How do I request a Greeter?
Go to the local Greeter website and complete their request form with as much information as possible.
What happens after I submit my request?
As soon as the Greeter destination receives your request you should receive a first confirmation. Long enough before you go there they will try to match you with an available Greeter. They’ll then be in touch with you as quickly as possible by email to organize details well in advance of your trip.
If you think that you got stuck in this procedure please let us know by email to info@internationalgreeter.org. We will try to help you.
How can I change or cancel my request?
Please send an email to the Greeter destination as soon as possible if you need to change your plans. They’ll do their best to accommodate your changes.
What does it cost to meet a Greeter?
All Greets are completely free and always will be. We do not expect any kind of tipping. This is our spirit.
How can I support a Greeter organization?
Greeters organizations are administered in different ways. In many cases it is possible to make a donation, but again, we stress that all Greets are free and you are under no obligation at all to make a donation.
How many people can take part in a Greet?
Greets are for small groups of a maximum of six people. They’re private walks, so they’re not aimed at tour groups. For larger groups we strongly recommend organising a professional tour guide (Greeters are not professional tour guides!)
Will my walk take place if the weather is bad?
Oh yes, so bring your umbrella. Whatever the weather, we will greet you and as far as conditions allow, we’ll try to show you the best side of our city. But we’ll be there at the arranged time.
Are Greeters professional tour guides?
No, we’re not professional tour guides. Greeters are local individuals who enjoy showing new friends their city. If you’d prefer an organised tour with an official guide, have a look at the website of the local tourism board for more details.
Why is it free?
Greets are free because our aim is simply to bring people together, get to know new people and show off our beautiful home cities. Greeters offer a free service based on the concept of participatory tourism (where tourism is a source of multicultural exchanges and enrichment for visitors and residents alike) relying on residents’ willingness to volunteer and their enthusiasm.
Greeter questions: FAQ for new destinations
Can I start my own Greeter organization?
Yes you can!
The worldwide organisation of Greeter destinations is very happy to accept new members. In fact we have great expectations about the number of destinations around the world. At the beginning of 2019 we were around 140 members. If you are interested in starting your own local Greeter organisation, feel free to fill out the information form and we will get back to you with information that will get you started real easy
Can a governmental organization become a member?
Yes, absolutely!
Many of our local Greeter organisations are supported by local governmental organisations. Often the local tourist board takes initiative and creates the infrastructure for the Greeters.
We do ask governmental organisations to follow the same requirements to become a member as we ask non governmental organizations or individuals.
Is there a membership fee to the International Greeter Association?
Yes, there is a small fee if an organization is delivering a certain number of Greets. But it is free for the first year and if an organization is delivering only a few Greets.
Any more Greeter questions? Submit them on our contact form and we will be happy to answer them.