TIL my 'free city tour' hack was actually just me following a random school group

Honestly, I was in Lisbon last fall and saw a big group with a guide, so I just tagged along thinking it was one of those 'pay what you want' tours. After about 45 minutes, a teacher turned around and asked, very nicely, if I was a new parent helper for their 4th grade field trip. Ngl, I was so embarrassed. Now I always check for an actual tour sign or flag before joining. Has anyone else accidentally joined the wrong group to save a few bucks?

3 comments

3 Comments

grant.anthony27d ago

That's actually a pretty solid hack for getting a local history lesson, even if it was for kids. Could see myself doing the same thing in a crowded square, just blending into the back of the crowd. The real trick is spotting the difference between a tour guide's flag and a teacher holding up a stuffed animal for their class to follow.

noah_barnes4h ago

Nah, that's a terrible idea honestly. I mean, you're basically stealing a service meant for kids and their education. Those teachers are trying to do their job and some random adult lurking in the back just makes it weird for everyone. It's not free content, it's someone's actual work. Plus the kids probably notice and get distracted. Just pay for a real tour or read a plaque like a normal person.

danieltaylor27d ago

Oh man, that mental image is too good... picturing you trying to look interested in the finer points of the Lisbon tile industry while surrounded by ten year olds. At least you got a wholesome history lesson, even if it was aimed at someone learning their times tables. I once almost joined a funeral procession thinking it was a quiet walking tour, so you're doing better than me. That teacher must have been so confused, wondering which parent forgot to sign the permission slip.