A tourist guide is a person who guides visitors in the language of their choice and interprets the cultural and natural heritage of an area. Tourist guides normally possess an area-specific qualification, usually issued and/or recognised by the appropriate authority. The term "tourist guide" is the internationally recognised professional designation, established by major international standards and supported by professional organisations worldwide. In the United States, the colloquial term "tour guide" is commonly used, though this does not align with international professional standards. Tourist guides provide assistance and information on cultural, historical and contemporary heritage to people on organized sightseeing and individual clients at educational establishments, religious and historical sites such as museums, and at various venues of tourist attraction resorts. Tourist guides also take clients on outdoor guided trips, including hiking, whitewater rafting, mountaineering, alpine climbing, rock climbing, ski and snowboarding in the backcountry, fishing, and biking.