Abstract:

This study aims to determine the vocational problems of professional tourist guides acting in Turkey and propose solutions to overcome these problems. In addition, it is aimed to make contribution to the field both with its unique methodical approach and knowledge production. The primary data were obtained from the professional tourist guides via Delphi method. It was determined that there were 43 vocational problems in nine different categories (nature of the profession, problems with travel agencies, accommodation businesses, transportation enterprises, museums and historical sites, tourists, professional organizations, colleagues and others). Then, solutions to these problems were discussed with professional tourist guides. As a result of the research, academic and practical suggestions were made, and implications for further research were given at the end.

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