Our TMB treks are heading out very soon! This time, we’re getting to know Yves BERTRAND.
What’s your name?
Yves Bertrand
Do you have any nicknames?
Not really. Just call me Yves.
Can you tell us a little about yourself?
I'm 67 years of age. I'm extremely proud of my four children and two grandchildren. I work primarily in the French Alps and am a certified International Mountain Leader, ski and mountain bike instructor.
Over 40 groups have been professionally led by me on and around the Tour du Mont Blanc. On the tour, one of my closest friends runs a refuge, and I can't wait for you to meet them. Some may consider me a latecomer, but I've been leading groups since I was 36 years old, and I still adore it.
Places that I have guided groups include:
Europe : Vanoise, Mont Blanc, Mercantour, Queyras Chamonix-Zermatt, Grand Paradis.
World : USA, Canada, China, Morocco, Chile, Peru, Nepal, Tibet, Kilimanjaro (Tanzania).
I also enjoy mountain climbing, and I have reached the top of Mont Blanc 12 times. Free Blast on El Capitan, though, was one of my favourite climbs.
I've been a member of the ESF of Megeve for the past 30 years and have served as vice president of the Megeve Guiding Union for the past 12 years.
I began my career as a professional guide while pursuing my certifications, worked as a flight attendant for Air France on their lengthy flights, and ended up becoming the Chief Purser.
In 2010, I organised a 15-day event on mountain and tourism in the Rhône Alpes region for the Rhone Alpes region at the Shanghai World Expo, which was one of the most amazing events I've ever worked on.
What are your hobbies?
I enjoy playing all sports, as well as learning about new cultures and geographical locations. In addition, I enjoy meeting new people, playing the drums, photography, and rock climbing.
How long have you been a guide?
For the past 36 years 🙂
Why did you decide to become a guide?
My parents moved to Chamonix when I was a year old, and I used to accompany them into the fields. I never gave it much thought to looking back or doing anything else.
What’s your favourite thing about guiding treks?
Sharing your experiences with others, participating in their journey, and assisting others in learning new things, in my opinion, is special and creates a special bond. It has been extremely helpful to me because I always have a friend I can catch up with when I travel to a new country.
What’s the craziest thing that’s happened on a trek?
Since there have been so many, it's challenging to single out one particular issue. I would be more than happy to share my experiences climbing and going on crazy adventures with our visitors over a meal while on the tour ;)
Well, we’re happy that you’re still here to tell us the stories! – [AA Team]
What do you think is a quality that every good guide needs?
Because every group is so unique, guides need to possess a variety of qualities. An expedition cannot begin with the same expectations as the last one, whether they were positive or negative; it is a fresh start. However, in my opinion, the top priority for any group you are managing should always be their safety. It is crucial to pay attention to everyone in the group and recognize that everyone is giving it their all, which can call for patience. Depending on the expedition, I always try to assist visitors with insightful local knowledge, hints, and tips, as well as advice on hiking and mountain climbing.
Having said all of this, it is our responsibility as tour guides to keep in mind that the visitors are on vacation, and it is our duty to provide the maximum level of comfort.
Tell us something fun about your treks!
It is up to you to visit with Adventure Abroad and give one a shot. We never skip a beat, which is probably why I end up dozing off for several days after the trips are over. 🙂
Anything else you want us to know about you?
There will be plenty of time to learn all there is to know about me.
Lastly, what tip can you give our trekkers heading your way?
Enjoy nature at your own pace. We're there to have fun together and complete the trek without incident.