While traveling in Prague we had a long list of places we wanted to see.

The Bethlehem Temple in Prague was a delightful surprise. We happened upon the temple while walking to another destination. We wanted to see it, but we had a hard time finding it. Planning our visit to this particular historic site was difficult due to our language barrier. 

Tours on Demand

We popped in, asked what time the next tour would happen, and we were given one right away. We were delighted that we could see this historic temple without planning ahead.  We also enjoyed not having to wait for an appointed time. This allowed us to visit the interior of the building spontaneously. We had tickets for another destination 45 minutes later. We were walking to it when we found ourselves at the temple.  If we had to wait, or join a long, guided tour we would not have had time to visit.

Our tour guide gave us a 3 to 5 minute overview/orientation to the site in English. She handed us a sheet of information on the art and architecture, also in English. Then, she walked away. She offered that she would be nearby and to find her if we had any questions.

We were all allowed to experience the space in our own way.

My travel partner and I agreed, her approach was perfect. We were now ready to explore and experience the space that once held 3000 people. Our guide was free to greet and orient new visitors, and answer questions.

The docent was the only person staffing the building. While we were there, she brought in 3 more couples. She also brought in a small group.

Some stayed only a moment longer than the orientation, snapped a photo or two, and were on their way. Others stayed even longer than us and explored the fresco and enjoyed the space at their leisure. We each paid the same small admission fee, regardless of how long we stayed onsite.

It got me thinking…so often tours at museums and historic sites are too long. We as docents and tour guided feel that we have to tell our guests everything. We “Monologue instead of Dialogue.” Guests don’t always have a full hour available.  Some are not as interested as others. Some have other reasons, like us, that they can’t commit to a long tour.

We need to ask ourselves:

Are we giving our visitors the experience they want?

Or are we offering them the experience WE want them to have?

Have you ever been surprised or delighted by your treatment at a historic site?