SINGAPORE — Being a Contiki tour manager is a dream job for Mark Heap. Not only does the 29-year-old get to travel around Europe, he’s practically a walking encyclopedia after learning so much about the history and culture of the countries he visits.

“We’re proud to say we have the toughest training; for the selection (process) alone, we had to go through a personality test, an American Idol-like presentation to judges, and put together our own research of more than 25,000 words on a region,” the Sydney-sider revealed. “After that, it’s ten weeks of training and an examination at the end of it!”

Still, it has been a blast as Heap shared his experiences. He has even made friends with some of the young travellers who’ve gone on Contiki tours. “I keep in contact with them on Facebook and see where else they’ve travelled to.” SERENE LIM

How did you decide to become a tour manager with Contiki?

Mark Heap: I’ve been working in hospitality since I was a kid. I started out at McDonald’s when I was 15 then I was at a Sheraton hotel when I turned 21. I enjoy meeting new people and organising events. I saved up to go to America and did a road trip there. After that, I joined a Contiki tour to do an ultimate European vacation. The six weeks on tour was one of the best times I had. I became pals with the tour manager who suggested I apply for it so I did.

What are some of the most memorable experiences you’ve had while leading tours?

So many things could happen every day. I once had this traveller who kept losing his passport — he lost it five times on a six-week trip. As a result of that, I now know the locations of all the Canadian embassies in Europe! Travellers also leave their stuff in hotels so I would have to contact the hotels and get them to post these to our next location. I’ve had a traveller who fainted and some who needed (to go to) the hospital. Once, there was a road block due to a strike in France.

Some young travellers think they have to be super outgoing to join a Contiki tour. Is it true?

Not at all. You don’t have to change who you are to fit in. The thing is, every Contiki tour group is a melting pot of cultures and personalities. It’s always interesting watching the dynamics. If you’re shy, we have a dinner to break the ice and there’s a new Shout app which allows travellers to download it before their departure to connect with fellow travellers.

Which are some of your favourite spots in Europe?

Barcelona for the food and architecture. Gaudi’s creations are simply amazing. For Rome, there’s too much history not to see and there’s a great gelato shop called Gelateria Della Parma with tons of flavours and they’re all so good. Vienna, as people are constantly surprised by how pretty the city is.

What was your most unforgettable adventure?

I was in Hollywood Boulevard for all of three minutes and managed to see Paris Hilton and the swarm of paparazzi. Also, I was part of the audience for The View and (was supposed to) receive US$400 worth of shoes. But I couldn’t get them as I wasn’t American!