Recce
Recce (short for reconnaissance) is a term used in the tourism industry for a preliminary visit or inspection of a location before bringing actual tour groups. Tour guides and travel planners conduct recces to check routes, assess safety, time different activities, locate facilities like restrooms and restaurants, and ensure the quality of attractions. This preparation helps create smooth, well-organized tours. Some people also call this a "site inspection," "familiarization trip," or "dry run." It's an essential practice that helps tour guides deliver better experiences and avoid potential problems during actual tours.
Examples in Resumes
Conducted Recce visits for 20+ new tourist destinations in Southeast Asia
Led weekly Recce trips to evaluate new walking tour routes in historic districts
Performed detailed Reconnaissance of adventure tourism sites to ensure safety standards
Typical job title: "Tour Guides"
Also try searching for:
Where to Find Tour Guides
Professional Networks
Job Boards
Industry Resources
Example Interview Questions
Senior Level Questions
Q: How do you plan and execute a recce for a new multi-day tour route?
Expected Answer: The candidate should explain their systematic approach to planning, including safety assessments, timing calculations, alternative route options, and how they document findings. They should mention coordination with local suppliers and consideration of different customer needs.
Q: How do you train junior guides to conduct effective recces?
Expected Answer: Look for answers that demonstrate leadership skills, systematic training methods, and ability to create standard procedures. They should explain how they teach others to identify potential issues and document findings properly.
Mid Level Questions
Q: What are the key elements you check during a recce?
Expected Answer: Candidate should mention checking accessibility, timing, safety hazards, photo opportunities, restroom locations, alternative routes, and potential challenges for different types of tourists.
Q: How do you document your recce findings?
Expected Answer: Should describe their method of recording information, including photos, notes, timing, and how they share this information with other guides or management.
Junior Level Questions
Q: Why is conducting a recce important before leading tours?
Expected Answer: Should demonstrate understanding that recces help ensure tour quality, safety, and timing, allowing guides to anticipate and prevent potential problems.
Q: What would you do if you discover a potential problem during a recce?
Expected Answer: Should show problem-solving skills and understanding of proper reporting procedures, including communicating issues to management and suggesting alternatives.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-2 years)
- Basic route planning
- Safety awareness
- Documentation skills
- Time management
Mid (2-5 years)
- Detailed site assessment
- Risk management
- Supplier relationship management
- Route optimization
Senior (5+ years)
- Training and mentoring
- Strategic tour planning
- Crisis management
- Quality assessment
Red Flags to Watch For
- No practical experience in conducting site inspections
- Poor attention to detail in route planning
- Lack of safety awareness
- Unable to demonstrate problem-solving skills during unexpected situations
