[DaveESL]

I agree that people often aren't aware of the language that they use, so recording (or at least observing) actual tours might be useful.

Also, many guides have different styles. I try to teach my students (who are tourism majors, that one of the best ways to engage people in what you are saying is to be unique and consistent with your personality. Some guides might use humor more, for instance, while others might try to interest their customers with factual information. Folktales or historical anecdotes are two other possibilities. I don't think it would be possible to find a list of words (or sentences) that are used universally by tour guides to interest their customers.

Still, I think observing / recording guides is a good place to start, and I also think roleplays can be useful. I've used a bunch in my teaching, anyways. I've got a couple posted at my website.

Take care,
Dave