Enhancing Foreign Tourist Experience: Revolutionary Training for Tour Guides in Kazakhstan
Tour guides play a crucial role in shaping the tourism experience for visitors to any country. In Kazakhstan, the national tourism company Kazakh Tourism, in collaboration with the Indy Guide booking platform, organized master classes for local guides to enhance their understanding of Western tourists and provide a better experience for guests visiting the country.
These one-day training sessions held in Astana, Oskemen, and Almaty aimed at elevating the knowledge of local guides on what is important for Western travelers. The founders of Indy Guide, Atahan Tosun and Alexandra Tosun, emphasized the importance of bridging the gap between local guides’ expertise in Kazakhstan and the preferences of Western tourists.
Western travelers often seek authentic experiences, hospitality, and a glimpse into the nomadic lifestyle of Central Asia. The interest in the region’s nomadic traditions and behind-the-scenes stories has been on the rise among European tourists.
The training also addressed minor issues that can impact the overall tourism experience, such as safety concerns, punctuality, and online communication. Responding promptly to inquiries, managing expectations regarding infrastructure challenges, and improving English language skills among tour guides were highlighted as areas for improvement.
Investing in education, raising awareness of service-oriented hospitality, and addressing language barriers were identified as key factors in enhancing the tourism sector in Kazakhstan. By understanding the preferences of Western travelers and providing tailored experiences, local guides can contribute significantly to promoting Kazakhstan’s rich culture and natural beauty to the world.
