The rise of the 'free' city tour

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When is a free tour not a free tour? When it is, more accurately speaking, a pay-what-you-want tour. The concept of a city tour where there is no set charge and tourists show their appreciation by leaving a tip is becoming increasingly popular across Europe and beyond. An increase in budget-conscious travel, a growth of savvy operators, and the ease of word-of-mouth internet marketing is helping drive the trend.

Free Sofia Tour

Typically led by a Bulgarian student or graduate, the English-language Free Sofia Tour gives a two-hour hit of the city's main attractions. The tour is Sofia's number-one activity on Tripadvisor and has the backing of the city municipality. On the back of its success, its founder has co-created the United Free Europe network, which also features similar tours in nine other European cities, including Lisbon, Prague and Berlin.

Free Sofia Tour
freesofiatour.com/
The free English language sightseeing walking tour of Bulgaria’s capital, organized by a non-profit organization.
Read full article at The Guardian
www.theguardian.com/travel/2013/jun/12/free-pay-you-want-city-tours