Tourism and Sustainable Development: A Cross-Reading through Tourist Guides

Abstract

This research contributes to the ongoing initiative to advance sustainable tourism by harmonising economic growth, environmental conservation, and cultural enrichment. The situation of tourist guides offers a pertinent perspective on how field practitioners interpret and convey the ideas of sustainability to visitors.
The primary concern pertains to the capacity of guides to serve as authentic mediators among the territory, local residents, and tourists, while including the ecological and social aspects of sustainable development. The aims are to examine the instructional and awareness-raising functions of guides, to delineate their specific practices, and to assess their constraints within a framework characterised by institutional and environmental obstacles. The research is a qualitative approach that entails the analysis of verbatim transcripts and speeches delivered by tourist guides. The findings indicate that, despite a sincere intent to participate, structural and organisational limitations impede the efficacy of initiatives. The discourse underscores the necessity for improved training, institutional backing, and stronger cooperation among stakeholders. Ultimately, viewpoints and suggestions are presented to enhance the role of guides in fostering genuinely sustainable tourism.