About the “Greeter” concept
This tourism volunteering concept emerged in New York in 1992 at the initiative of Lynn Brooks who wanted to enhance her city’s reputation by “greeting” visitors in a more welcoming manner. She founded an association, Big Apple Greeter. Since then, the network has expanded to 35 destinations across the world. Wherever it is present, the Global Greeter Network (GGN) is based on the same principles: volunteering, greeting without discrimination, respect for the environment, free service, and mutual exchange. France is the country with the highest number of Greeters destinations, and this number grows year by year under the aegis of “France Greeters”! Saint-Germain-en-Laye has applied for GGN registration.
So what is a Greeter?
A Greeter is an “ambassador” volunteer who welcomes visitors to Saint-Germain-en-Laye and accompanies them, in groups from 1 to 6 people maximum, on a two-hour tour on foot, free of charge. Because it is based on personal human experience and exchanges, an encounter with a Greeter is always a unique one. Tour themes vary widely, because Saint-Germain is a destination of many facets with its royal connections, exceptional environment, extremely lively town centre and picturesque streets. We also have Greeters who speak English or German, and tours may be available in other languages soon. Be aware, however, that a Greeter is not a professional guide and does not have the same expertise as a group tour guide or a historian. All you have to do is fill in the questionnaire…
It is important to reserve your tour well in advance to increase the chances of a Greeter being available for you.
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AlainAlain has been a Greeter in Paris for several years. He travels a great deal. He knows Asia well but his favourite place is his home town, Saint-Germain-en-Laye. He looks forward to meeting visitors from different countries and cultures and exchanging a whole collection of stories with them. |
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IsabelleIsabelle tried the Greeters network when she was in the United States. Today she is delighted to become a Greeter herself and share her favourite features with you, from the Château du Val to the former banana ripening depot. She’ll even tell you about the secret passages at her old school (if you promise to keep it to yourself!). |
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JoëlOriginally from Brittany, Joël loves Saint-Germain where he has lived for more than 40 years. Seduced by the sharing concept of the Greeter movement, he decided to convey to others his interest in the town. This erudite historian will take you on a trip through time in the picturesque little streets of Saint-Germain-en-Laye. |
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LaureLaure can’t wait to help you discover the appeal of Saint-Germain-en-Laye. In her company, you can admire the sumptuous view of Paris from the Le Nôtre Terrace before walking through the charming pedestrian streets of the town centre. She will be thrilled to show you the best establishments and reveal some great tips. |
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MichelMichel was born and bred in Saint Germain. Interested in international relations, he has devoted most of his professional activity and community involvement to his home town. He is a historian and enjoys sharing his natural curiosity with visitors. He will be happy to show you the abundance of wealth of this dynamic and radiant town. |
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PriscilleFormerly an expat, Priscille will reveal to you the secrets of her town. From the forest of Saint-Germain to the Parc du Château, via the English gardens, she’ll have no trouble sparking your curiosity. Likewise as she takes you exploring Saint-Germain’s charming streets with names of old. |
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VéroniqueVéronique delights in promoting her town and making you love it too! She acquired a taste for meeting visitors of different cultures thanks to regular visits from foreign friends. She’ll happily plunge you into the “Village” atmosphere of Saint-Germain, with no efforts spared. |
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Jean-YvesJean-Yves has been in Saint-Germain-en-Laye for 32 years now. He comes from a binational family and enjoys being in contact with people of different origins and cultures, which he finds highly rewarding. Initially, he chose Saint-Germain for its international lycée. Since then he has never left and for good reason: the town’s human touch yet with an international feel, close to Paris yet independent, its history of kings, its monuments and forest… |
If you have a disability
Our Greeters can adjust their tour and ensure you get the most out of it. When you book, please specify the nature of your disability and any related constraints that you feel we should know about. If, however, your disability makes you reliant on others, you will need to come along with an accompanying person.
