ASSESSING THE CHALLENGES OF TOUR GUIDING TECHNIQUES AND ITS

PRACTICES, THE CASE OF ARBA MINCH TOWN

WACHEMO UNIVERSITY
COLLEGE OF BUSINESS AND ECONOMICS
DEPARTMENT OF TOURISM MANAGEMENT

Senior Essay Submitted To Department Of Tourism Management In Partial Fulfilment Of The

Requirements For Award Of Bachelor Art Degree In Tourism Management

BY: CHERNET YAKOB

ID NO: 7822/09

Advisor: Mr. Addisalem Molla (BA)

June, 2019
HOSSANA, ETHIOPIA
 Title page
Assessing the Challenges of Tour Guiding Techniques and Its Practices, in the Case Of
Arba Minch Town

Senior Essay Submitted To Department of Tourism Management in Partial Fulfilment of the

Requirements for Award of Bachelor Art Degree in Tourism Management

BY: CHERNET YAKOB

ID NO: 7822/09

Advisor: Mr. Addisalem Molla (BA)

June, 2019
HOSSANA, ETHIOPIA

I
 Approval Sheet
This research paper entitled “Assessing the challenges of Tour Guiding Techniques and Its
Practices, The Case of Arba Minch Town” this paper is prepared and submitted by
chernetYakob in partial fulfillment of the requirement for the degree of bachelor of Art in
Tourism Management, has been examined and is recommended for acceptance and approval of
oral examination.

Advisor: Mr. Addisalem Molla

signature_______________________

date___________________________

II
 Panel of Examiners

Approved by committee of oral examination with a grade of_________________________

Chair man
_________________________

_________________________ _________________________

Member Member

_________________________ _________________________

Accepted and approved in partial fulfillment of the requirement for the degree of Bachelor of Art
in Tourism Management.

Date: _________________________

_________________________

Mr. Addisalem Molla

Head, department of Tourism management

III
 Declaration
I would like to declare that the senior essay entitled “tour guiding techniques and its practices
tour guide association in Arab Minch Town” submitted to Department of Tourism
Management, College of Business and Economics, Wachemo University in partial fulfillment of
the requirement for the degree of Bachelor of Arts in Tourism Management is a record of the
original report work done by me and it has not formed before, the basis for the award of any
degree/diploma.

Researcher Name Signature: Date:

Chernet yakob ____________________ ______________________

IV
 Acknowledgment
First and for most thanks to God for his gift that beyond all things, I am sincerely grateful to my
adviser Mr Adissalem Molla for giving me his fruit full advice with constructive suggestions, I
appreciate his willingness to help me at all time without limitation. Next I would like to thanks to
my all staff members of tourism department for supporting by giving advice and motivation by
all rounded support
Finally I would like to say thanks you to all my campus friends and dorm mate students for their
provision of different working materials.

V
 Table of contents

Title page ......................................................................................................................................... I

Approval Sheet................................................................................................................................ II
Panel of Examiners ....................................................................................................................... III
Declaration .................................................................................................................................... IV
Acknowledgment ........................................................................................................................... V
Table of contents ........................................................................................................................... VI
List of Tables ............................................................................................................................. VIII
List of figures ................................................................................................................................ IX
Acronym ........................................................................................................................................ X
Abstract ......................................................................................................................................... XI
CHAPTER ONE ............................................................................................................................. 1
1. INTRODUCTION ...................................................................................................................... 1
1.1 Background of the Study ...................................................................................................... 1
1.2 Statement of the Problem ..................................................................................................... 2
1.3 Objective of the Study .......................................................................................................... 3
1.4.1 General Objective ....................................................................................................... 3
1.4.2 Specific Objectives ....................................................................................................... 3
1.4 Research Questions .............................................................................................................. 3
1.5 Scope of the Study................................................................................................................ 3
1.6 Significance of the Study ..................................................................................................... 3
1.7 Definition of Key Terms ...................................................................................................... 4
1.8 Limitation of the Study ...................................................................................................... 5
1.9 Organization of the Study .................................................................................................... 5
CHAPER TWO............................................................................................................................... 6
2. Review of Related Literature ...................................................................................................... 6
2.1 Definitions and Concepts ................................................................................................... 6
2.1.1 Tour Guide .................................................................................................................... 6
2.2. History of Tour Guide ......................................................................................................... 6
2.3 The Role of Tour Guide ....................................................................................................... 8
2.4 Tour Guide Code of Practices .............................................................................................. 9
2.5 Tour Guiding Techniques..................................................................................................... 9
2.6 The Challenges of Tour Guides ......................................................................................... 10

VI
 2.7 Conceptual frame work ...................................................................................................... 11
CHAPTER THREE ...................................................................................................................... 12
3. Research Methodology ............................................................................................................ 12
3.1 Description of the Study Area ............................................................................................ 12
3.1.1. Location and Topography.......................................................................................... 12
3.1.2 Climate........................................................................................................................ 12
3.1.3 Population ................................................................................................................... 12
3.2 Research Approach and Design ......................................................................................... 13
3.3 Target Population of the Study .......................................................................................... 13
3.4 Sampling Technique and Sample Size ............................................................................... 13
3.5 Sources of Data .................................................................................................................. 13
3.6 Variable of the study .......................................................................................................... 13
3.7 Method of Data Collection ................................................................................................. 14
3.8 Method of Data Analysis ................................................................................................... 14
CHAPTER FOUR ......................................................................................................................... 15
4. Data Analysis and Interpretation .............................................................................................. 15
4.1 Demographic Characteristics of the Respondents .............................................................. 15
4.3 The Role, Practices and Techniques of Tour Guide........................................................... 17
4.3.1 The Role of Tour Guide in Arba Minch ..................................................................... 18
4.3.2 Practices of Tour Guide in Arba Minch Town ........................................................... 18
4.4 Qualities of Guides ............................................................................................................. 21
4.5 Local Tour guides............................................................................................................... 21
4.6. Knowledge of Guide ......................................................................................................... 22
4.8 Challenge that Tourists faced because of Tour Guides ...................................................... 23
4.9 The Major Challenges that Affect Tour Guide Practice in Arba Minch Town.................. 23
4.10 Types of Techniques Used to Improve the Activities of Tour Guide .............................. 26
4.11Challenges that Affect the Role, Activities and Techniques of Tour Guide ..................... 26
CHAPTER FIVE .......................................................................................................................... 28
5.1. Conclusion......................................................................................................................... 28
5.2 Recommendations .............................................................................................................. 29
References
Appendix

VII
 List of Tables
Table 4.1.1 Demographic characteristics of respondents……………………………………….17
Table 4.1.2 educational level and work experience of respondents………………………….....18
Table 4.2.1 personal quality of tour guide………………………………………………………19
Table 4.3.1 Importance of tour guide to your tour………………………………………………21
Table 4.3.2 leading the tour guide obeying the contract itinerary plan………………………….21
Table 4.3.3 presentation skill and interpretation providing information tour guide…………….22
Table 4.4.1 quality of guides………………………………………………………………….....22
Table 4.5.1 local tour guides…………………………………………………………………….23
Table 4.6.1 knowledge of guide………………………………………………………………....24
Table 4.7.1 level of tourist satisfaction on services provided by tour guides of arbaminch…….24
Table 4.8.1 challenge that tourist faced because of tour guides…………………………………25
Table 4.9.1 Challenges of tour guide practices……………………………………......................25
Table 4.9.2 Challenges tour guide interpretation or presentation skills………………………....26
Table 4.9.3 Tour guide develop and update your knowledge and skills………………………...27
Table 4.9.4 providing training for tour guide increase performance……………………………27

VIII
 List of figures
Figure 2.1 conceptual frame work of the study……………………………………………….11

IX
 Acronyms
UNWTO: United Nation World Tourism Organization
EFTGA: European Federation of Tourist Guide Association
GGZCTOD:Gamo Gofa Zone Culture Tourism Office Document

X
 Abstract

A tour guide is someone who shows visitors around an area, with the guide using extensive local
knowledge to share the area with visitors. The main objective of the study is to assess tour guide
techniques and its practices the case of Arba Minch town. The researcher was used mixed
(qualitative and quantitative) research approach and used descriptive research design. The
researcher used non-probability sampling techniques namely, purposive and accidental
sampling technique to collected data from tour guide, culture , tourism and Government
communication bureau of Arba Minch Town and tourists. The researcher also used 20 samples.
So as to collected data and information the researcher used both primary and secondary
sources. The gathered data’s were analyzed and interpreted by using table, and percentages,
with regards to tour guide techniques and practices. The main problem of tour guiding
techniques and its practice in Arba Minch town was poor monitoring and evaluation mechanism,
inadequate training program, and, lack of industry incentive. To solve the challenges of
organizations should be facilitate training for tour guides, government should applying
registration and licensing system, owners of tour guiding associations and conduct further
research.

Key Words: - Tour Guide, Challenges, Techniques and Practices

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 CHAPTER ONE

1. INTRODUCTION

1.1 Background of the Study

Tourism is the pleasure activity, which involve people traveling to destinations outside normal
place of residences for over short period of time (Chilembwe, 2010). On the same, The United
Nation World Tourism Organization (UNWTO, 2009) interpret tourism as activity of person
traveling to and stay in a place outside their usual environment for not more than on consecutive
year for leisure, business, and other purpose not related to the exercise of any activity remunerate
from within place visit.

Guide is one of the world oldest professions, the Oxford American Dictionary and Language
Guide (1999) defines the term guide as person who leads or show the or direct the movement of
a person or group who directs a person in his conduct.

Travelling as one of the core aspects of tourism has emerged as a necessary leisure activity in the
21th century due to increased paid holidays as a result many people are involved in travel and
tourism (Scott Hartman, 2016). Many people across the world nowadays participate in leisure
activities for variety of reasons. They try to make savings and draw plans as to where they want
to spend their holidays. (Scott Hartman, 2007) reveals that there are intrinsic and extrinsic factors
that drive people to travel. Intrinsic factors include; self-realization and boasting one‟s ego
whereas extrinsic factors are those that shape individuals‟ attitudes, preferences and perceptions
from external environment. (Amanda williams,2017) add that people travel from one place to
another for physical and health related, enjoyment, educational and recreation reasons. Other
individuals travel for learning new cultures and places, however, they achieve self-fulfillment as
travelling contributes to personal development and elevation of social stance (ibd).

Ap and Wong (2001) highlight that tour guides provide an important part of the interface
between the host destination and visitor since front line employs are very munch responsible for
the overall impression and satisfaction with the tour services offered by a destination. Therefore,
the job of tourist guide is describe as leading, interpretive, inspiring and entertaining in a

1
specific geographical or environment setting in which there specialized knowledge of various
language is applied.

An official tour guide of the host country‟s fundamental perquisites for tourist‟s guides is
positive personal, ethical and moral characteristics including honesty, modesty, dignity and
trustworthiness, equity important are intellectual qualities including compressive knowledge and
a strong grasp of the subject matter to continue learning and personal enrichment. Moreover,
essential professional qualities include the ability to communication and present facts in the
visitors language, the capacity to leads and organized groups correct postures and eye contact
and ability to tell stories ( Pond, 2001).

1.2 Statement of the Problem

Ethiopia is the land blessed with the greater cultural and natural tourism resources but the
tourism industry did not developed. There this undeveloped performance of tourism in
Ethiopia are; management of tourist experiences due to shortage or unavailability or required
facilities to support tourist experience, limited knowledge about tourism product, lack of
advanced infrastructure, lack of skilled man power in hospitality service, accommodation
problems and low pay (Pond, 2001).

The other problems of tour guides are limited knowledge about tourism product or destination;
there are no fixed salaries to take home, lack of appropriate information about destination, there
are any incentive for doing a good quality job, (Giannoulis, 2010). However, there have been
comments and observations by a few researchers but not exactly while studying of
techniques and its practices in tour guides. Miller (2000) asserted that travel agents, hoteliers,
tour guides, and vendors constrain tourists‟ movements, behaviors, and even thought.

Based on these gaps the study focus to assess the role of tour guide association, for tourism
industry and who is responsible to deal with training and to create favorable condition for the
development of Tour guiding profession by reducing the challenges of tour guiding techniques
and its practices in Arbaminch town and also this research may be seen as an input for the other
researcher.

2
1.3 Objective of the Study

1.4.1 General Objective

The general objective of this study is to assess the challenges of tour guiding techniques and its
practices tour guide association in Arba Minch town.

1.4.2 Specific Objectives

1. To identify the roles of tour guide in Arba Minch Town

2. To assess the practices of tour guide profession in Arba Minch Town
3. To identify the challenges of tour guide profession in Arba Minch town
1.4 Research Questions

1. What are the roles of tour guide in Arba Minch town?

2. What are the practices of tour guiding in Arba Minch town?
3. What are the challenges of tour guiding in Arba Minch town?

1.5 Scope of the Study

The study was designed to cover the challenges of tour guiding techniques and its practices tour
guide association in Arba Minch town, but for feasibility it is limited to tour guide association in
Arba Minch town.

1.6 Significance of the Study

To require BA degree, and also the researcher strongly believe that the study will be significance
for the tour guide to makes a good plan by removing the challenges of tour guiding techniques
and its practices depending up on the study. The study would be help to provide the information
for other researcher as secondary source specially the people who search information about tour
guiding techniques. The study also improves the knowledge and understanding of the researcher
to conduct other research in the features.

3
1.7 Definition of Key Terms

Tour guide: is someone who shows visitors around an area, with the guide using extensive local
knowledge to share the area with visitors.

Tour guiding techniques: it can be prepared study the destination, plan your spiel or
commentary, it should be structured, Have an update on the locals, back up your facts, Be ready
for pertinent and impertinent questions, In cases of having more than one guide, find some time
to sit down, discuss to synchronize information and learn from each other Never tell your
personal life at first meetings.

Tour guiding practices: outlines the responsibilities and standards of behavior expected of tour
guides working to provide a professional service to visitors professional in care and commitment.

4
1.8 Limitation of the Study
Due to scope of the study, the generalization of some fact and finding of the study limit to the
specific institutions considered in undertaking. So that there is no further information to
generalize the study may be face some limitation or difficulties in getting source document or
reference materials in order to get available current information.

1.9 Organization of the Study

The study contains five chapters. The first chapter deals with background of the study,
statement of the problem objectives of the study, scope, limitations and significance of the
study, definitions of key terms and the organization of the study, the second chapter; will
provides review of related literature that will be collecting by the researcher, the third
chapter; explains about the methodology, description of the study area, determination of
sample size, sampling design and techniques, the subjects of the study, the research
instruments, and data gathering procedure, and data processing method used in this study,
the forth chapter; provides the details about the result and discussions from the analysis of
the collect data, and the last chapter, is the final part of the study, consisted of the
conclusions and recommendations.

5
 CHAPER TWO

2. Review of Related Literature

2.1 Definitions and Concepts

2.1.1 Tour Guide

Tour guide is someone who takes people sightseeing excursion of limited duration. Tour guide
an individual who direct the way; who heads others on trips or tour; and one who direct or serves
as the model for another in his conduct care. Looking at related perspective, a tour guide is seen
as someone who leads group of visitor within a town, museum, or any other places of interest.
The guide gives precise and right information on the facilities, activities and history of the area
(Mancini, 2002).

European Federation of Tourist Guide Association (EFTGA, 1998) and defines tour guide a
person; who guide groups or individual visitor from abroad or from the home country around the
mountain, site and museum of the city or region; to interpret and entertaining manor, in the
language of the visitor choice including the cultural and natural heritage and environment.

However, other definition put their central focus on the important of personal and conducts of the
guide as essential ingredients that constituent the work of the tour guide the professional Tourist
Guide Association of Sam Antonio tour guide is a person who possess a good knowledge,
personal quality and high standard of conduct and ethics, that helps, then leads group of people
or individual to the important sites, while providing interpretation and commentary ( Ap and
Wang, 2001) further say that tour guide provide an important part of interface between the host
destination and visitor since are front-line employs who are very much responsible further
overall impression and offered by a destination.

2.2. History of Tour Guide

Specific reference guiding can be traced back be to the time of the Roman Empire. Since then the
evolution of tour guides and guiding history of the western world was dividing into four periods.
The first one was in the era of the great empires (300 B.C to A.D500) when tourism was its first

6
major development. Sightseeing by sea flourished during the Greek empires; travel surged
throughout the reign of the Imperial Rome with its legendary paved roads and great economics
success. As these activities increased, so did the number of the guides. They acted as leaders
around or explainers who assisted visitor are journeying abroad (pond, 1993).

The second stage happened in the middle age (A.D 500 to 1500), a period after the fall of Rome
and before the Renaissance. At that time, religious pilgrimages by the upper and middle classes
where the main type of journey. Because the fall of the Rome resulted in chaos in the economy
and the social order, the issue of safety came to be a main concern of travelers. Therefore, as
well as being pathfinders, guides had to serve as protectors, safety escorts and even bribers to
assure safe passage (ibd.)

The third phase covered the period of the Renaissance and the grand tour (A.D 1500 to around
1700). During this, taking excursion for educational and cultural reason became a fashion for the
Grand tourists the youth of the upper classes. These promising young men, usually assigned and
accompanied by a cicerone, expected or were expected to broaden their horizon, to improve their
self-cultivation and to enrich their knowledge through long journeys. The cicerone, named after
Cicero the most esteemed guide in European society, was indented to be knowledge, grave and
respectable person. They were mainly personal tutors and spiritual advisors. At this time, most
travelers going to and touring within the new world throughout 17th and 18th centuries were
explores for the purpose of discovering a new way of life. Pleasure excursion to and from there
were a dalliance of a few privilege and curious Europeans. Therefore, almost no new world
guides are known to have existed during this period (ibd).

The modern age began in the 19 century. The first group pleasure travel happened in 1841 when
Thomas cook organized an excursion train tour to temperance meeting in England. Within a few
years after, as a tour guide or tour manager, he led his Clint to Paris and in 1856, conducted the
first of many of his Grand Tours of Europe. No evidence of organized guiding services exists
prior to the 20 century other than that of Thomas Cooks Company. Cook is also respected as the
patron saint of today tour guides (ibd).

7
2.3 The Role of Tour Guide

Cohen, (2008) was the first to conceptualize the role of the guide in for sub distinct sub roles of
tour guide. The author directed role of the tourist guide is towards organization and management
(instrumental role) and the facilitation of encounters with the host population (interaction role).
Tour guides in this role must meet both individual and group needs of the party using resources
outside the group tour. “The inner directed” role of tourist guide is focused on the leader ship in
the form of social interaction and information dissemination (communicative role). Cohen‟s four
roles of tour guide can be summarized as follows. One, instrumental role: focusing on direction
giving navigation access to the territory and safety. Two: the interaction role: focusing on
representation of the area to the followers in anon threatening manner and organization. Three,
social role: focusing on tension, management, social integration and cohesion and entertainment
to maintain and build group morale. Four: the communicative role: focusing on selecting points
of interest for the group, dissemination of correct information and the translation of the
unfamiliar, adapted from (Cohen, 2008).

Tour guiding, solving problem and interpretation is a basic activity in tourism value chain. The
importance of guiding therefore can‟t be undermined even though tour guides may be expected
to assume deferent role in deferent context. The success of tourism industry most of the time
relies on the performance of tour guides provide the required in information to visitors. Tour
guides are also known to have the power to make a trip enjoyable or boring. It is further argued
that when tour guides are able to produce quality service to guests or visitors, the imagined
reputation of the destination improves. Not surprising tourist experience can be shaped by the
way in which tour guides execute their function (Parkas and Chowdharry, 2010).

8
2.4 Tour Guide Code of Practices

This Code of Guiding Practice outlines the responsibilities and standards of behavior expected
of tour guides working within Australia, to provide a professional service to visitors
professional in care and commitment, and professional in providing an objective understanding
of the place visited - free from prejudice or propaganda, to ensure that every effort is made to
present true and accurate facts and ensure that a clear distinction is made between this truth and
stories, legends, traditions, or opinions, to act honestly, fairly and professionally in all dealings
with all those who engage the services of guides and with colleagues working in all aspects of
tourist, ensure that guided groups treat with respect the natural, cultural and heritage
environments, and minimize impacts on these at all times, to representatives of Australia, to
welcome visitors and act in such a way as to bring credit to the country and promote it as a
tourist destination, regularly update and upgrade guiding skills and knowledge through
training and professional development activities, declare to customers any relevant personal
commercial interests, including commissions, and never force visitor purchases or solicit tips,
be mindful at all times of duty of care and other health and safety issues, provide all goods and
services as presented in the tour itinerary and promotional material, abide by all national, state
or territory legislation governing the operation and conduct of tours, tour operators and tour
guides (Eco-Tourism Australia, 2011, Code of Guiding Practice).

2.5 Tour Guiding Techniques

Be prepared, study the destination, Plan your spiel or commentary, it should be structured, Have
an update on the local and global news and environmental issues, Intercede when necessary in
the interaction with the guest and the locals, Be aware on the basic human behavior and attitudes,
Do not research to back up your facts, Be ready for pertinent and impertinent questions, In cases
of having more than one guide, find some time to sit down, discuss to synchronize information &
learn from each other Never tell your personal life at first meeting (Adam, 1997).

The other techniques of tour guiding are Explore motivations for travel to develop profiles of
travelers, understand cultural heritage tourism issues in relation to tour guiding, Understand the
way tourist guides interact with tourism industry organizations.

9
2.6 The Challenges of Tour Guides

Tour guides may be the most maligned people in the world of travel. They are blamed for the
problems of travel, such as bad weather and traffic jams (Ang, 1990). Being present in
person before a tourist they are expected to solve all problems of tourist- within or outside
of their control. Failure to do so is considered as a poor performance. This is unjust as well as
challenging. Therefore points out that tour guides are, buffers between the tourist and the site
visited.

Summarizing their study on tour guiding in Hong Kong, Ap and Wong (2001), have
identified that there was no training course for new entrants and there was a lack of training
opportunities which resulted in to variable levels of professionalism, lack of recognition and a
poor image of profession. Other

challenges include potential problems resulting from unhealthy industry practices; need for
a certification, registration or licensing system; absence of any monitoring of tour guide
performance; and more active and visible role to be taken by the local tour guiding
association.

Tour guides must address multiple stake holders simultaneously. Visitors expect that their safety
and health will take a high priority, but at the same time expect an enjoyable and rewarding
travel experience. Some have special needs and expectations associated with their particular
cultural background, their physical and intellectual capabilities, and their passions and interests
in particular subject matters (Weiler and Ham, 2002). Employers expect the guide to
provide high-quality service to visitors in order to meet these expectations, as well as to
manage the group, the itinerary and other logistical aspects of the experience to maximize
not only visitor satisfaction but also profit margins (Cohen, 1985).

10
2.7 Conceptual frame work

Leading the
Problem group
solving

Tour Improper
Guide information

practice

Reception
plan

Promoting Assistant
the the tourist
destination what they
resources went

Figure 2.1 conceptual frame works

Source: (Researcher Own survey, 2019)

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 CHAPTER THREE

3. Research Methodology
Methodology contains description of the study area, research design, sample size, sample
technique, source of data and research instrument, data gathering and procedure and data
analysis.

3.1 Description of the Study Area

3.1.1. Location and Topography

Arba Minch, which in Amharic means forty springs is one of the fast growing towns in Ethiopia.
Arba Minch is administratively located in GamoGofa zone of the south Nation Nationalities and
people Region at about 500km south of Addis Ababa (capital of the country) while 275 km south
of Awassa (capital of the Region). Its geographical location is 6 2 N 3733 E. Arba Minch
received its name for the abundant local and the high yield spring which produced a ground
water forest. Located at the base of the western side of the Great Rift Valley, Arba Minch is
divided into four sub cites namely shecha, NechSar, Sikela and Abaya (GGZCTOD, 2014).

3.1.2 Climate
Traditionally, the climate of Arba Minch town is classified in to “kola” hot weather type.
Climate condition of the town is almost tropical type of climate with its mean annual temperature
ranges from 21oc to 26oc. The lowest temperature of town is recorded during summer and the
annual average rainfall of the town is 900mm per year of which the substantial amount falls on
months of May, June, September and October (GGZCTOD, 2014 )

3.1.3 Population
Based on 2007 cense Arba Minch town has the total population of 74,879 and out of which
39,208 males and 35,671 are female now a day the total population size of the town is 18,000.
The annual population growth rate is found to be 4.8% with it 15 years doubling time and the
population density of the town is 13 people per hectare (Arba Minch town Administration,
2014/15).

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3.2 Research Approach and Design

The researcher used mixed (qualitative and quantitative) research approach because qualitative
research approaches help to explore the issue to understand the fact and also to answer the
research question. The quantitative approach helps to organized and interprets the respondents.
The study used descriptive research design because it helps to describes tour guides techniques
and practices, tabulates, percentage, and describes the data collection. They often used visual aid
to reader in understanding the data collection.

3.3 Target Population of the Study

The target populations of the study from Arba minch town culture and tourism office, tour guides
in Arba Minch town, and tourists. The researcher where select the above populations as a target
population because they had well aware of tour guiding related information.

3.4 Sampling Technique and Sample Size

The researcher used non-probability sampling techniques that were purposive and accidental
sampling technique. Purposive sampling used to select sample from culture, tourism office and
tour guides. The reason to select purposive sampling technique is there is no time to give equal
chance for all the respondents the researcher believed by there is no equal knowledge all the
people about the tour guiding and tourism industry. Accidental sampling used sample from
tourist, select accidentally by the researcher. It based on when and where the researcher fined the
participants. This sample was distributed to tour guide participants. Due to time and budget
constraint the researcher was select 20 respondents to fill the data.

3.5 Sources of Data

To conduct research both secondary and primary sources of data used, the researcher used
secondary data from written documents. The main sources of primary data are questionnaires
that were opened ended and closed ended questions and interviews.

3.6 Variable of the study

In the study there are dependent and independent variables like techniques, roles and practices.
The independent variables are tour guide practice the dependent variables are tour guide
techniques and roles which are identified after independent variables

13
3.7 Method of Data Collection

The data was gathering and collecting in the following procedure those will: Firstly, both close
ended and open ended questionnaires prepared for tour guides, tourists, and interview prepared
for culture and tourism office, questions was prepare, edit and submitting to advisor and
checking their validity. Secondly, a questionnaire was distributing to respondents and an
interview was conducting, thirdly a questionnaire was collecting from respondents. Lastly
conducting interview, organizing response for future analyzes interpretation and observation.

3.8 Method of Data Analysis

To achieve objective of the study, the data that collect from the representative of the given
respondent was analysis and discuss in detail by using qualitative and quantitative data analysis
method. Qualitative data analyzed through descriptive methods and quantitative data analyzes
through percentage, frequency and tabulation.

14
 CHAPTER FOUR

4. Data Analysis and Interpretation

This chapter is mainly concerned with the data analysis and interpretation was collect through
questionnaire and interview and the questionnaire has been prepared and distributed to the tour
guide, tourist and culture and tourism office of Arba Minch town. The total questionnaire
account 20 in numbers and were distributed to the tour guide, tourist and culture and tourism
office. The study used table to interpret for reflections of the entire work of the study.

4.1 Demographic Characteristics of the Respondents

The table shows the personal information of the respondents who participated in the study in sex,
age, and marital status.
Table 4.1.1: Demographic Characteristics of Respondents
Sex Count Percent (%)
Male 13 65%
Female 7 35%
Total 20 100%
Age
18-28 7 35%
29-39 7 35%
40-49 3 15%
50 and above 3 15%
Total 20 100%
Marital status
Married 11 55%
Single 8 40%
Divorced - -
Widow 1 5%
Total 20 100%
Source: researcher own Survey, 2019

15
Table 4.1.1 indicated in the table male respondents of the study are account for 13(65%) while
female respondents of the study are 7(35%). This shows that both male and female respondents
are involved in the study area and majority of the respondents are males. It also illustrates that,
the respondent are from all age groups, the lower limit is 18 years old whereas the upper limit is
51 years old and above. The respondents are between the age 18-28, 7(35%) while of the
respondents grouped under 29-39, 7(35%), 40-49 and 50 and above are 3(15%) respectively. As
the researcher understood form the tables above majority of the respondents are between the ages
of 29-39.The marital status of the respondents that accounts 55% was married while 40% and 5%
are counted for single and widowed respectively. While none of the respondents are in divorce
status. The majority of the respondents are married 55% followed to single 40%.

Table 4.1.2: Educational level and work experience of respondents.

Education level Count Percent (%)
Illiterates - -
Certificate 3 15%
Diploma 5 25%
Degree 9 45%
Master and above 3 15%
Total 20 100%
Work experience
Below year - -
1-3 1 33%
4-6 - -
7-9 2 67%
10-12 - -
12 above - -

Total 3 100%
Source: Researcher own survey, 2019
Table 4.1.2 shows that the respondents in Arba Minch town are from all categories of
educational levels and work experience, The lower limit of educational level is illiterate while
the upper limit of educational level is masters, from the entire respondents none of the

16
respondents are illiterates, (15%) are certificates and (25%) are diploma graduates, while (45%)
respondent are degree, the respondents (15%) are master‟s and above. So the majority of
respondents are degrees.
According to table shows that the respondents in Arba Minch town are from all categories work
experience the lower limit of educational level is determined to be 12 and above while the upper
limit of year work experience is 1-3 year (33%), from the entire respondents none of the
respondents are 12 and above, 4-6 year , 10-12 year and were below of year. So the majority of
respondents work experience is 7-9(69%) year.

4.2 Personal Quality of Tour Guide

Table 4.2.1: Personal quality of tour guide
Personal quality of tour guide Count Percent (%)
Enthusiastic 5 29%
Decision making 3 18%
Knowledgeable - -
Confidence in handling people 4 24%
Problem solving - -
Good health 5 29%
Wit and communication - -
Total 17 100%
Source: researcher own survey, 2019
Table 4.2.1 shows the personal quality of tour guide in Arba Minch town, that most of them
chose more than one, and the respondents enthusiastic 5(29%), good health 5(29%). As result of
this the researcher conclude that enthusiastic , good health, confidence in handling people,
problem solving, and wit and communication skill are the major personal quality of tour guide in
Arba Minch town.
4.3 The Role, Practices and Techniques of Tour Guide

This section covers the findings of the study about the roles, activities and techniques of tour
guides. In this sub section results regarding about roles, activities and techniques of tour guiding
in Arba Minch town would be analyzed.

17
4.3.1 The Role of Tour Guide in Arba Minch

Based on the interview data gather from respondents there are two major roles of tour guides in
Arba Minch that is managing the group and leading tourists. Guides in Arba Minch manages
group of tourists and assist them about what they want. The other major role of is leading
tourists. While tourists visiting a destination in Arba Minch they need to get a leader who lead
them and that‟s what tour guides do in Arba Minch town.
Tour guides play a key role in the experience of the tourist. Their main function is to interpret
information, sites or attractions. They also need to perform a variety of other tasks that can
include leading, managing the group, communicating, setting a good example, boosting the
morale of the group and entertaining the visitors.
European Federation of Tourist Guide Association (EFTGA, 1998) and defines tour guide a
person; who guide groups or individual visitor from abroad or from the home country around the
mountain, site and museum of the city or region; to interpret and entertaining manor, in the
language of the visitor choice including the cultural and natural heritage and environment

4.3.2 Practices of Tour Guide in Arba Minch Town

Based on the respondent‟s information in Arba Minch there are different activities practiced by
tour guides. Majority of the respondents replied that the types of activities practiced by tour
guide were guiding the tourist to destinations. Some of respondents responded that the types of
activity that practiced by tour guide was providing leading the tour, obeying the contracted
itinerary, reception plan, and provide services for tourist accommodation and transportation. The
other group of respondents responded that the types of activities practiced by tour guide
providing accommodation accompanied with meal. Some respondents responded their practice
was the availability of car for tourist.
Practice outlines the responsibilities and standards of behavior expected of tour guides working
within world, to provide a professional service to visitors professional in care and commitment,
and professional in providing an objective understanding of the place visited, minimize impacts
on these at all times, it as a tourist destination, regularly update and upgrade guiding skills and
knowledge through training and professional development activities, (Eco-Tourism Australia,
2011, Code of Guiding Practice).

18
In different parts there were numerous practices which undertaken by tour guides. Tour guides
Provides full information about the features and history of the location. As the importance of
places is known by the guide, he educates and relates the visitors to all the local stories, history
and culture as and when the location comes. While traveling to next location guide entertain
visitors, and gives visitors relevant information about the place where you will land up next
(Mancine, 2001).
Table 4.3.1 Importance of tour guide
Importance of tour guide to Count Percent (%)
your tour
Not important at all - -
Important 7 41%
Not important - -
Very important 10 59%
Total 17 100%
Source, researcher own survey, 2019
Table 4.3.1 shows what the respondent expressed the reason of what do you think of the
important of a tour guide within the tour, from the total respondents are taken 7(41%) of them
said tour guide very important, 10(59%) of them said important, none of the respondents were
chose a not important at all and not important. The majority of the respondent had chose very
important and this means tour guide is important within the tour in Arba Minch town.
Table 4.3.2 leading the tour guide obeying the contract itinerary plan
Leading the tour obeying of the Count Percent (%)
contract itinerary plan
Excellent 5 29%
Very good 8 47%
Good 4 24%
Fair - -
Not fair - -
Total 17 100%
Source: researcher own survey, 2019

19
Table 4.3.2 shows all gave leading the tour guide obeying the contract itinerary and reception
plan which, 8(47%) of the respondents gave very good, 5(29% ) of them “ excellent and 4(24%)
are Good. Based on the above information, the tourists have satisfied that the leading of tour,
obeying of the contract itinerary and reception plan in Arba Minch town.
Table 4.3.3 presentation skill and interpretation providing information tour guide
Presentation skill and providing information Count Percent (%)
cultural and natural attraction way of tour guide
Very high 2 12%
High 3 19%
Medium 7 44%
Low 3 19%
Very low 1 6%
Total 16 100%
Source: researcher own survey, 2019
Table 4.3.3 shows all gave the question how rate of presentation skill and interpretation cultural
and natural attraction way of tour guide, which 7(44%) of them said medium, 3(19%) the
respondent chose low, 3(19%) said high, 2(12%) of them very high, and 1(6%) very low. On the
other hand, the rates of tourist satisfaction on presentation skill, interpretation on cultural and
natural tourism resource by the tour guides are not this much. The majority of the respondents
are not satisfied by the presentation skill and interpretation of tour guide about the natural and
cultural resource interpretation their reason varies some of them said, the tour guides do not have
enough knowledge about what they interprets while the other said due to the barrier of the
language they have not been able to express or interpret such natural and cultural resource in
appropriate way. So in general the tour guides in Arba Minch town is not well on the
presentation skill and interpretation about natural and cultural tourism attraction of the area this
can leads to dissatisfaction of customers specially the tourists.

20
4.4 Qualities of Guides
Table 4.4.1 quality of guides

No Item Alternative Frequency Percentage (%)

1 How you rate the Very good 3 18%
quality of tour guides? Good 6 35%
Medium 6 35%
Poor 2 12%
Very poor - -
Total 17 100%

Source: researcher own survey, 2019

Table 4.4.1 shows no of the respondents replied that very poor, 6(35%) of the respondents
replied good, 6(35%) of the respondents replied that medium, and 2(12%) of the respondents
replied that poor. Therefore the researcher concludes that tour guides who assist tourists in Arba
Minch have enough quality to guide tourists.

4.5 Local Tour guides

Table 4.5.1 local tour guides

No Item Alternative Frequency Percentage

(%)
2 Do you use the local Yes 14 82%
tour guides? No 3 18%
Total 17 100%
Source: researcher own survey, 2019
Table4.5.1 shows 14(82%) of the respondents replied that they use local tour guides, whereas
3(18%) of the respondents replied that they did not uses local tour guides. The researcher
concludes that most of time tourists who were coming to Arba Minch to visit the area they used
local tour guides when they visited. So it is good opportunity for Arba Minch tour guide
association.

21
4.6. Knowledge of Guide

Table4. 6.1 knowledge of guide

No Item Alternative Frequency Percentage (%)
3 How you rate the Very good 3 18%
knowledge of tour Good 5 29%
guides about the area? Medium 4 24%
Poor 5 29%
Very poor - -
Total 17 100%

Source: researcher own survey, 2019

Table 4.6.1 Shows, 3(18%) of the respondents replied that very good, 5(29%) of the respondents
replied good, 4(24) % of the respondents replied that medium, and 5(29%) of the respondents
replied that poor. Therefore the researcher concludes that tour guides who are guide the tourists
in Arba Minch did not have enough knowledge about the area and as the profession required.
4.7 Level of Tourist Satisfaction on Services Provided by Tour Guides of Arba
Minch
Table 4.7.1 level of tourist satisfaction on services provided by tour guides of Arba Minch
No Item Alternative Frequency Percentage (%)
4 What is you level your Very low - -
satisfaction on the Low 5 29%
services provided to Medium 4 24%
you by tour guides of High 6 35%
Arba Minch? Very high 2 12%
Total 17 100%

Source: researcher own survey, 2019

Table 4.7.1 indicates, 5(29%) of the respondents replied that low, 4(24%) of the respondents
replied medium, 6(35) % of the respondents replied that high, and remain 2(12%) of the
respondents replied that very high. Therefore the researcher concludes that services which are

22
provided by tour guides of Arba Minch town didn‟t satisfy needs and wants of tourists who
visited Arba Minch.

4.8 Challenge that Tourists faced because of Tour Guides

Table 4.8.1 Challenge that Tourist faced because of Tour Guides

No Item Alternative Frequency Percentage

(%)
5 Is there any challenge Yes 10 59%
that you faced because No 7 41%
of tour guides? Total 17 100%
Source: researcher own survey, 2019
Table 4.8.1 shows 10(59%) of the respondents replied that they faced challenges because of tour
guides, whereas 7(41%) of the respondents replied that they did not faced challenges because of
tour guides. Therefore the researcher concludes that tourists who visit Arba Minch town they
faced by some challenges because of tour guides who guide tourists in Arba Minch area.
Based on the data that gathered from tourists, the tourists were faced by challenges because of
tour guides. These challenges ware the way of interpreting the attraction, communication
problems, services which are provided by tour guides of Arba Minch was low. The tour guides
have lack of experience to explain the attraction to the tourists. The tour guides do not have good
handling of the guest as the guest want.

4.9 The Major Challenges that Affect Tour Guide Practice in Arba Minch Town

Table 4.9.1 Challenges of tour guide practices

Challenges tour guide practices
Existence of informal tour guide
Lack of occupational standards
Ineffective monitoring system
Lack of industry incentive
Inadequate training program
Total
Source: researcher own survey, 2019
Count Percent (%)
1 10%
2 20%
2 20%
2 20%
3 30%
10 100%

23
Table 4.9.1shows for the question what are the major challenges of tour guide practice in the
town, 3(30%) of the respondents are said that inadequate training program, 2(20%) of them said
ineffective monitoring system, 2(20%) of them said that lack of industry incentive, 2(20%) of
them said lack of occupational standard and, 1(10%) of them said existence of informal tour
guide. This implies that inadequate training program, ineffective monitoring system and lack of
industry incentive are the issue of factors that draw back tour guide practice in the town. In
addition to this data that get from interview, inability to meet expectation of a demanding tourist,
there are no fixed salaries to take and poor connectivity with other areas with tourism potential
other challenges practice of tour guide in Arba Minch town.
Table 4.9.2 Challenges tour guide interpretation or presentation skills
Challenges of tour guide interpretation techniques and Count Percent (%)
skills
No confidence in presentation skill - -
Limited knowledge about the tourism product 3 30%

Language limitation 3 30%

Not confident with the foreign language 4 40%
Total 10 100%

Source: researcher own survey, 2019

Table 4.9.2 shows for the question what are the challenges of tour guide interpretation or
presentation skill in table, 3(30%) of the respondent are said language limitation, 4(40%) not
confident with the foreign language, 3(30%) of them had were chose limited knowledge about
the tourism product and no one respondents had chosen no confident in presentation skills. This
implies that no confident in presentation skill is not a challenge for the tour guide interpretation
or presentation skill in the town. But language limitation, not confident with the foreign
language, and limited about knowledge the tourism products affects tour guide interpretation or
presentation techniques in Arba Minch tour guide association.

24
Table 4.9.3 Tour guide develop and update your knowledge and skills
Tour guide develop and update your Count Percent (%)
knowledge and skill
Learn or exchange with other tour guides 2 20%
Attend training program 5 50%
Learn from website 1 10%
Learn from books /newspaper/TV 2 20%
Total 10 100%
Source, researcher own survey, 2019
Table 4.9.3 shows, if and how do you develop and update your knowledge and skills about tour
guide, the respondent said that expressed to 2(20%) learn or exchange from other tour guide,
5(50%) attend training program, 2(20%) learn from books/newspapers/TV, and 1(10%) learn
from website. This implies that learn or exchange other tour guide, attend training program and
learn from books/newspapers/TV are necessary develop and update your knowledge and skill
tour guide, because without the availability of those tour guide does not develop and attract
tourists.
Table 4.9.4 Training for tour guide increase performance
Do you agree that providing training for tour guide Count Percent (%)
increase their performance
Yes 3 75%
No 1 25
Total 4 100%
Source, researcher own survey, 2019
Table 4.9.4 shows for the question do you agree that providing training for tour guide increase
their performance, the majority of the respondents said 3(75%) responded Yes means that
providing a training for tour guide increases their performance while the remaining of the
respondents 1(25%) do not agree that the given training increase their performance. Therefore, as
the result shown on the above table, providing training for tour guide increases their performance

25
4.10 Types of Techniques Used to Improve the Activities of Tour Guide
Based on respondent‟s data the types of techniques used by tour guide to improve their activities
are different. Most of the respondents replied that they give priority for customer oriented
request. They provide services based up on the customer‟s request.
On the basis of the above data the researcher denotes that most of tour guide give priority for the
customer oriented service to improve their tour guiding activities.
The other techniques of tour guiding, had exploring motivations for travel to develop profiles of
travelers, understanding cultural heritage tourism issues in relation to tour guiding,
understanding the way tourist guides interact with tourism industry organizations, list the
different types of tours available and identify the challenges faced by each, explore the
significance of interpretation and interpretive techniques, establish methods for working with
groups of different cultural backgrounds and beliefs, enhance methods for working with groups
of different cultural backgrounds and beliefs, Enhance interpersonal skills, presentation, public
speaking, and social skills, Develop techniques for dealing with tour logistics (Adam, 1997).

4.11Challenges that Affect the Role, Activities and Techniques of Tour Guide

Based on the respondent‟s data challenges that affect techniques, roles and activities are
different. But the most surviving problem is poor monitoring and evaluation and licensing
mechanism. The government is not well monitoring the licensing and evaluation processes. Due
to that reason there are many tour guides without standard qualification and license which leads
the industry to mess. The other challenge is some tour guides did not know what is expected
from them. To become successful guide they must to be eager to know the unknown things and
make one familiar with the new routines but tour guides in Arba Minch has no desire to upgrade
their activities and techniques.
The other challenges tour guide include potential problems resulting from unhealthy industry
practices; need for a certification, registration or licensing system; absence of any monitoring
of tour guide performance; and more active and visible role to be taken by the local tour
guiding association (Weiler and Ham, 2002).

26
4.12 Measures Taken to Reduce the Challenges of Tour Guide
Based on the respondent information the main measures that should be taken to resolve
challenges that affect tour guide are giving training for tour guides to improve their skill and
conducting customer satisfaction survey to know the perspectives of customers about the service
provided.
Ap and Wong (2001), summarizing their study on tour guiding have identified that there
was no training course for new entrants and there was a lack of training opportunities which
resulted in to variable levels of professionalism.

27
 CHAPTER FIVE
5. Conclusions and Recommendation

5.1. Conclusion

Tour guides in Arba Minch town are performing their role in a good manner. The main roles of
tour guides in Arba Minch are managing the group and leading tourists. Tour guides in Arba
Minch manages group of tourists and assist them about what they want. The other major role is
leading tourists. While tourists visiting a destination in Arba Minch need to get a leader who lead
them that‟s what tour guides are doing in Arba Minch town.

Based on the finding the researcher concluded that types of techniques used by tour guide to
improve their activities were different and they give priority for customer oriented request. They
provide services based up on the customer‟s request. On the basis of the study, the researcher
concluded that the most sever challenge that affected tour guides practice is poor monitoring and
evaluation mechanism, inadequate training program, and, lack of industry incentive. Giving
training for tour guides is the main measure taken to reduce the challenges of tour guiding.

Other challenges for tour guiding in Arba Minch are lack of budget allocation to facilitate
training for low skilled tour guide. Tour guides are an ambassador of destinations therefore, they
must behave in a good way to create good image in the minds of tourists.

28
5.2 Recommendations

 Training for low skilled tour guides, to solve this problem culture, tourism and
communication bureau of Arba Minch town should be ensure that tour guides are
professionally training, there will need for introducing a compulsory basic training to be
taken by all practicing and new entrant guides. The introductory course for guides
entering the field needs to comprise some of the important issues such as local history,
geography of destination, local economy, customer care skills, health and safety
management and basic emergency aid.
 In Arba Minch tour guides roles of tour guides are tourists visiting a destination,
managing the group and leading tourists, then government should be appreciate the role
of tour guide and facilitate any necessity things for senior and new entire tour guides.
 The other challenges tour guide practice is poor monitoring and evaluation of tour guides
performance, to solve these problem government and managers in tour guides association
should be control and monitor the performance of guides in their association.
 Tour guide association should be encouraged to have better branch distribution at tourist
destination sites so that they can provide services to tourists at those sites
 Limiting the number of tour guide association also limits the quality of guiding service.
So Private sector and government sector should participate and increase the number of
tour guide association in order to provide quality and standard of service.
 Tour guides should provide quality services to satisfy tourist‟s needs and wants.
 Tour guides should improve their knowledge about Arba Minch to explain about the area
for tourists properly.

29
 References
Ang E. (1990). Upgrading the professionalism tourist guides. Paper presented at the Travel
Educators Forum, PATA Conference, and Singapore. PATA Conference, Singapore: 11–
14 July 1990.
Ap J. and Wong, K.K.F. (2001). Case study on tour guiding: professionalism, issues and
problems. Tourism Management, (22)
Cimacious, B.C. Pormentria, D.B.C., Reside, O.H., &Nullier, M.B., (2009). Tour guiding in
Bagvio city: Perspective from their stakeholder Groups. Philippines: University of the
Cordilleras
Cohen, E., (1985). The tourist guide: The origin, structure and dynamics of a role. Annuals
tourism research 12(1)
Cohen, E (2008). The role of you guiding in transferring cultural understanding
EFTGA, (1998). Information Broacher, European Federation of Tour Guide Association:
unpublished Ham, s. (1992). Environmental interpretation
Howards, J., (2001). Investigation the role of the Indigenous Tour Guide: The formal of tourism
studies, 12(2)
Mancini, M., (2001), Conducting tour guide, 3rd Edition, Nework: Thoson Learning
Pag, S., (2009), Tourism Management: for change, 2nd edition. Nework:Elsevier
Parakash, M. AND chodhary, N. (2010). Be coming tour guide: Analyzing the motivations.
Revisit de tourism. 9.5-13.
Pond, K., (2001), the Professional Guide: Dynamics of Tour Guide New York Van Notsrand
Reinhold
Teklemariam, A., Kinfe, K., Wundire, A., Eyoub, E., Betmaruk, T., and Fiker, A., (2007)
Resources oriented sanitation concepts for per-urban area Africa. The 6th edition
framework program sub priority global change and eco system
UNWTO, (2009), Definition Tourist of tourist and tourism, retrieved online [accessed on 21st
march, 2012].
Zehang, H., and Chow, J., (2004) Application of importance performance model in tour guide
performance: Avoidance from mainland Chinese out bound visitors in Hong Kong.
Tourism Management

1
 Appendix I
WACHEMO UNIVERSITY
COLLEGE OF BUSINESS AND ECONOMICS
DEPARTMENT OF TOURISM MANAGEMENT
Questionnaire: - to be filled by tour guides and Tour managers
Dear respondents, the main objective of this questionnaire is to gather data for the research
entitled tour guiding techniques and its practices tour guide association in Arba Minch town for
the award of Bachelor of Arts degree in tourism management from Wachemo University. The
success of this study will highly depend on the honest answer you are going to provide. The
researcher would like to assure you that the information that will be given only be used for
academic purpose.

General Instructions:

 Put “√” or “X” in the boxes provided.

 Write your answers on the blank spaces provided for open ended questions.
 No need to write your name
Part I Demographic Characteristics of the Respondents

1. (Gender) Male Female

2. (Age) 18-28 years 29-39 years 40-49 years 50 and above

3. Marital status: Married Single Divorced Widowed

4. Educational background

High school completed BA Degree

Certificate holder Above BA degree

Diploma

2
5. Year of work experience in the sector

Below 1 years 1-3 year

4-6 year 7-9 years

10-12 year 12 and above

Part II Technical information of tour guide

1. What is your role for the sector development?

__________________________________________________________________________

2. Is there any technique used by your organization to improve the practice of tour guide?

Yes No

3. If your answer for question number 2 is “yes” specify some of technique that are doing by
you and your organization?

_____________________________________________________________________________

4. What kind of services in your organization provide for tourist?

______________________________________________________________________________

5. Is there providing training for tour guides to increase their performance?

Yes No

6. If your answer question number 5 yes what type of training is given?

Off the job on the job

7 If and how do you develop and update your knowledge and skills?

Learn/exchange with other tour guides Learn from websites

Attend training programs Learn from books/newspaper/TV

8. As your understanding what are the major of challenges that affect tour guide practices in
Arba Minch town?

Existence of informal tour guide lack of industry incentive

Lack of occupational standards inadequate training program

Infective monitoring system

9. What the major the challenges tour guide interpretation/ presentation skills
Not confidence presentation skill Language limitation
Limited knowledge about the tourism product not conversant with the foreign language
and other factors ______________________________
Part III Measures taken to resolve the challenges of tour guide
1. What kind of measure taken to resolve the challenges related techniques of tour guide?

__________________________________________________________________

2. What kind of measures is taken to resolve the challenges related to the roles of tour guide?

______________________________________________________________________________

3. What kinds of measures taken to resolve challenges to tour guiding skill?

______________________________________________________________________________

4. What kind of measure is taken to scale up the practice of your services?

______________________________________________________________________________

Thank you for your cooperation!

 Appendix II
WACHEMO UNIVERSITY
COLLEGE OF BUSINESS AND ECONOMICS
DEPARTMENT OF TOURISM MANAGEMENT
Questionnaire to be filled by Tourists
Dear respondents, the main objective of this questionnaire is to gather data for the research

entitled tour guiding techniques and its practices tour guide association in Arba Minch town for

the award of Bachelor of Arts degree in tourism management from Wachemo University. The

success of this study will highly depend on the honest answer you are going to provide. The

researcher would like to assure you that the information that will be given only be used for

academic purpose.

General Instructions:

 Put “√” or “X” in the boxes provided.

 Write your answers on the blank spaces provided for open ended questions.
 No need to write your name
Part I Demographic Characteristics of the Respondents

1. (Gender) Male Female

2. (Age) 18-28 years 29-39 years 40-49 years 50 and above

3. Marital status: Married Single Divorced Widowed

4. Educational background: -

High school complete Certificate holder

Diploma BA Degree above BA Degree

Part II Basic information about tourists

1. Personal quality of tour guide

Enthusiastic confidence in handling people

Decision making problem solving ability,

Knowledgeable Good health

Wit and communication skill

Other aspects you want make comments on _________________________________

2. What do you think of the importance of a tour guide to your tour?

Not important at all Not important

Important Very important

3. Leading the tour obeying the contracted itinerary and reception plan?

Excellent Very good

Good Fair

4. How you rate presentation skill and providing information way of tour guide?
Very high high medium low very low
5. Which service have you most often used in Arba Minch?
Accommodation Transportation Shops Tourist information
Food
Others mention it _______________________________________________
6. Information provision and interpretation, including:
Satisfied Unsatisfied
7. If your answer for question number 6 is “Satisfied” in which one
Natural environment Ethnic culture
Recreation facilities Local customs
Other aspects you want make comments onNot fair
8. How you rate the quality of tour guides?
Very good good medium poor very poor
9. Do you use the local tour guides?
Yes no

10. If your answer for question number 9 is „yes‟ how you rate the knowledge of tour guides
about the area?
Very good good medium poor very poor

11. What is you level your satisfaction on the services provided to you by tour guides of Arba
Minch?
Very low low medium high very high

12. Is there any challenge that you faced because of tour guides?
Yes no

13. If your answer for question number 12 is „yes‟ please mention the challenges.
………………………………………………………………………………………………………
………………………………………………………………………………………………………
 Appendix III
WACHEMO UNIVERSITY
COLLEGE OF BUSINESS AND ECONOMICS
DEPARTMENT OF TOURISM MANAGEMENT
Interview for Arbaminch town culture and tourism office
Dear respondents, the main objective of this interview questionnaire is to gather data for the

research entitled tour guiding techniques and its practices tour guide association in Arba Minch

town for the award of Bachelor of Arts degree in tourism management from Wachemo

University. The success of this study will highly depend on the honest answer you are going to

provide. The researcher would like to assure you that the information that will be given only be

used for academic purpose.

1 What is the role of tour guide in tourism?

2 Currently what problems or undesired phenomena exist in tour guides practices in

Arba Minch town?

3 Do you receive any compliant from the tourist?

4. What are the challenges of tour guiding techniques and its practices in Arbaminch town?

Thank you for your cooperation!