[Note: If you are a visual learner, please check out this excellent example of a finished guidebook created by one of our Heroes!]
Overview:
Guidebook templates serve as a framework for every trip you plan. Content should be edited to fit the preferences of the traveler, but all sections in the template should be present and filled in (unless otherwise noted) when you submit the guidebook to the support team for approval. If you remove any of the sections in the template, please let our support team know when you submit.
[Note: As you get more trips, the guidebook building process becomes easier and more efficient, so if you find it slow or cumbersome at first, remember that this is temporary. To make the process more efficient, you can label and save content in the Library so it's easily findable and can be used again when needed.]
Sections:
Hero Notes and Budget: This section should contain a brief, personalized message to the traveler, the approximate budget for the trip, and any pertinent Covid information they should know. The Hero Note is a great place to provide any general thoughts, reminders, and to communicate how you have made sure that the plan is personalized to their interests. This section should contain your phone number so the traveler can contact you during their trip. The budget section contains the approximate budget for the trip and a breakdown of costs into different categories.
The Covid Info section is specifically for Covid related health and safety information in the specific places that your traveler will be within a country. The template includes a links section to general destination-wide information, but Heroes should share details such as current transmission levels, mask and social distancing requirements, business closings or changes in hours of operation, where to get tested and any other pertinent Covid related information. This section is also contains information about where to get tested prior to boarding their return flight—a requirement for all U.S. bound return flights.
Maps : This section requires you to link the customized Google map link you created for this guidebook. For help making the map, review the Customized Google Map tutorial on the Hero Help Desk.
Pending Bookings: This section should include any pending bookings that the traveler must make themselves between when you submit the guidebook to them and their departure.
Itinerary Days: This is the most important part of the guidebook — days should include all daily activities, including meals and transportation, in a clearly sequenced and organized design. Descriptions for each item should be brief, and focus on why you chose to include it. Be sure to include references the traveler's preferences, your own opinions, and local tips wherever possible. Travelers are expecting the guidebook to feel personalized and full of your insights as a local to help them understand what to do and how to do it.
[Note: Heroes have found this section confusing and think they need to wait on recommending bookings until they submit the finished guidebook, but it's important to have the traveler move forward with bookings as early as possible during planning. For example, flights and lodging are often booked at the start of planning, and shouldn't to wait until the full schedule has been finalized.]
[Note: If you are a visual learner, please check out this excellent example of a finished guidebook created by one of our Heroes!]