Interpretive guiding and sustainability: an evaluation of tour guides' performance
by Wei Hu; Geoffrey Wall
International Journal of Tourism Anthropology (IJTA), Vol. 3, No. 3, 2014

Abstract: Previous examinations of guiding activities were made largely based on visitor satisfaction. This study explores them from a holistic perspective under which not only visitor satisfaction, but also the meaning to local resource conservation and economic promotion are considered. By applying interpretive guiding principles, this paper examines the guiding performance in Hainan, China. It is found that a large gap exists between what guides should and can do and what they actually do to promote the realisation of a sustainable destination. The low professionalism of the guides and the desire for instant money-making are the main issues inhibiting the adoption of interpretive guiding, calling for enhanced tour guide training and management.

Online publication date: Sat, 21-Jun-2014

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