National Tour Day

A group of friends taking a guided walking tour in a bustling city, wearing colorful tourist clothing, surrounded by iconic landmarks.. — National tour day illustration

Welcome to the wonderful world of National Tour Day, where we celebrate all things related to tours! Whether you're exploring a new city with loved ones, indulging in delicious food tours, or embarking on thrilling adventure tours, this day is all about embracing the joy of exploration. So, let's dive in and discover the fascinating history behind this special day!

When is Tour Day?

It's national tour day on the 5th October.

The Internet History of National Tour Day

Like all great days, National Tour Day has its roots in the depths of the internet. It popped up on the radar on October 5th, 2017, causing a frenzy of excitement among travel enthusiasts and curious explorers alike. Since then, it has gained popularity, with 185 mentions online!

But why restrict ourselves to the internet when we can delve into the rich history of guided tours in general? Tours have been a part of human culture for centuries. Ancient civilizations would arrange guided tours of their elaborate palaces, majestic temples, and awe-inspiring ruins for visitors to marvel at.

In more recent times, tours have evolved to cater to a wide range of interests and passions. There are historical and cultural tours that take you back in time, culinary tours that tantalize your taste buds, sports tours that allow you to immerse yourself in the thrill of the game, and so much more!

Did You Know?

Did you know that the world's oldest known tour guide manual dates back to ancient Egypt? Yes, even back then, people were eager to share their knowledge and guide others through the wonders of their civilization.

History behind the term 'Tour'

1613

Inception of the Grand Tour

The concept of 'tour' traces back to the early 17th century when wealthy English nobility began embarking on educational trips across Europe. This practice, known as the Grand Tour, was a cultural rite of passage for young aristocrats to gain exposure to the history, art, and architecture of prominent European cities.

1772

Establishment of Thomas Cook's Travel Agency

In 1772, Thomas Cook, often considered the father of modern tourism, founded the world's first organized travel agency. Cook started by arranging group excursions within England for attendees of temperance meetings. As his business grew, he expanded his tour offerings to include destinations across Europe and beyond. This marked a pivotal milestone in the commercialization and accessibility of travel.

1841

Invention of the Term 'Tourist'

The term 'tourist' was coined in 1841 by James Redding Ware. He used it in his book 'The English Spy' to describe people who traveled for leisure and pleasure. This term gained widespread recognition and became increasingly associated with those who embarked on organized trips for recreational purposes, further solidifying the notion of tourism as a mainstream activity.

1869

Opening of the Suez Canal

The completion of the Suez Canal in 1869 revolutionized travel by significantly reducing the sailing distance and time between Europe and Asia. This maritime shortcut enabled more people to embark on extended tours that included destinations in the Middle East and beyond. The opening of the canal fostered cultural exchange and transformed the landscape of international tourism.

1950s

Emergence of Mass Tourism

With the advent of commercial aviation and improved transportation infrastructure, the 1950s witnessed the rise of mass tourism. As air travel became more accessible and affordable, a larger segment of the population started to partake in leisure trips. This era marked a significant shift in the demographics of travelers, making tourism a widespread phenomenon.

1990s

Digitalization and the Internet Revolutionize Tourism

The 1990s saw a transformative period for tourism with the emergence of digital technologies and the internet. The availability of online booking platforms, travel websites, and destination information revolutionized the way people plan, book, and experience their tours. This digital revolution facilitated greater convenience, accessibility, and flexibility for travelers, shaping the modern landscape of tourism.