กิติยาภรณ์ หิรัณยชาตรี และ สุรชัย จิวเจริญสกุล

The Attribute of Local Guides for Ecotourism in Thailand

คุณลักษณะของมัคคุเทศก์ท้องถิ่นสำหรับการท่องเที่ยวเชิงนิเวศในประเทศไทย

Kitiyaporn Hiranayajatri and Surachai Jewcharoensakul

-

 This study explored the attributes required for local guides conducting land ecotourism in Thailand. The purpose of the study was to identify the attributes necessary for local guides at land ecosystem tourist sites and classify them according to the 3 principle qualities of tourist guides, including knowledge, personality and attitude, and skill. The researchers applied multi-methods as well as quantitative and qualitative data analysis. According to the 30 sets and structured interviews with 10 key informants from organizations related to tourism in Thailand, the research revealed that local ecotourism guides require different attributes than general tourist guides. Signifiantly, they must have knowledge of the region and be able to pass on knowledge of the local identity. Local guides require knowledge of cultural history and local traditions, and ecotourism concepts and management. The occupation necessitates honest, moral and ethical personalities, as well as effective communication skills to give detailed explanations about the environment.

-

Tourism, Ecotourism, Local guide