10 years ago, when we started to offer in-destination experiences as inclusive packages with professional tour guides, we initially faced resistance from partners, DMCs, and Tour Operators. The common concerns included:
- Our guides, being perceived as incapable of handling guests, suggested only as local escorts.
- DMCs insisting on sending their guides due to brand identity.
- Tour Operators hesitating to interrupt guide assignments or incur standby guide costs.
Let the results speak for themselves
Despite these challenges, we stood firm in our vision, emphasizing that the results would speak for themselves. Many destinations in Vietnam offer cheap “local land service” for classic sightseeing, but we reject such exploitative tourism models. Our specially trained tour guides serve as committed connectors, driving place-based and people-centered destination development.
Tour guides willing to adopt a transformational approach
In instances of two travelers with two professional guides, we see it as a failure of local empowerment – a form of waste in LEAN management (i.e. non-utilizing talents). To address this, we welcome tour guides willing to adopt a transformational approach beyond traditional roles. Speaking the language, delivering historical information, handling transfer from point A to point B is no longer enough. We need more storytellers, sustainability practitioners, people with open hearts to help customers feel comfortable and safe with local engagement.
Open communication ensure smooth coordination
Over the years, our collaborative efforts with guides and DMCs have flourished. Open communication ensures smooth coordination, allowing DMCs to retain their guides and guests to enjoy enhanced local connections. Either the DMCs requests us in advance their preferred guides (knowing he/she also collaborates with Slow Travel) or request our guides to handle extra visits. The DMCs make smarter operations with their resources and their tour guides still optimize with other tour assignments.
After years of consistent operations, we’ve gained our partners’ trust, boasting quality guides for high-end inbound segments. Complaints due to changing guides are nonexistent, as conscious travelers understand the need for specialist local guides in creating tailored, immersive experiences.
Ultimately, guests must feel at home, and our guides excel in making that happen. Slow Travel Hue aims at delivering happiness via Customer Experience Excellence.