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Best Practices for local Guides
Attitude and Relationship with Clients
The guide represents the spirit of the trip and the image of the destination. They should be warm, approachable, and dynamic.
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Be friendly, smiling, and natural with clients.
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Easily approach them and create a friendly relationship.
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Be available to answer questions.
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Prepare a list of short stories or anecdotes depending on the places visited and activities planned.
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If clients offer a drink during aperitif time, the guide may accept and share this moment, without excessive alcohol consumption.
The objective is for travelers to feel accompanied by someone passionate and pleasant, not simply supervised.
Group Management and Organization
The guide must ensure smoothness and comfort throughout the program.
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Check that the audio guides are working and fully charged before each visit.
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Always give clear meeting points.
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Regularly check that the whole group is present.
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Be flexible with timing while respecting the program so that all visits can be completed.
Whenever possible, try to leave a little free time at the end of the day so clients can enjoy the swimming pool or rest.
Preparing Visits and Experiences
Before each activity, the guide should give clients some context, usually during transfers. A few words are enough to explain the place, share an anecdote, and spark curiosity.
Examples:
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Before visiting the Roulos Market near Tonlé Sap, explain that it is a very local market, sometimes surprising for travelers because of the smells and unusual products, but that it reflects daily life in the countryside.
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Before arriving at Kompong Khleang village, advise clients on what they can give or buy from local communities before getting back on the bus.
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Before a tuk-tuk excursion, explain how it works, how much a tuk-tuk costs, how someone becomes a driver, and whether a special permit is required.
The goal is for travelers to arrive on site understanding what they are about to discover and, above all, already curious to see it, thanks to an anecdote or context shared by the guide that helps them better understand and immerse themselves in the culture or activity.
Give Short and Interesting Explanations
A good guide knows how to captivate without speaking for too long.
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During a temple visit or any other visit, never give explanations for more than 6 to 7 minutes in a row without moving.
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Focus on one main idea per place.
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Also let travelers observe and enjoy the place.
Clients remember anecdotes and stories better than overly technical explanations.
Examples of appreciated anecdotes:
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Local daily life
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How transportation works, such as tuk-tuks and taxis
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Traditions or beliefs
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Surprising cultural details
Clear Communication During the Trip
The guide must always provide the important practical information.
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Before leaving clients in the evening, always clearly confirm with them the meeting time and place for the next day’s departure.
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Clearly inform travelers that all tips are included in the trip, except the tip for the guide.
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Before each lunch and dinner, announce the included drinks package.
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Briefly remind clients of the next day’s program so they know what to expect.
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Specify the approximate breakfast time and departure time to avoid any confusion.
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Check that clients have no questions before saying goodbye for the evening.