An Analytical Study of Using English of Tourist Guides at Buddhist Tourist Places in Bangkok Thailand

Abstract

The purposes of this research were 1) to study using English of tourist guides at Buddhist places; 2) to analyze using English technique for international tourism; and 3) to propose guideline of using English for international tourism of tourist guides at Buddhist tourist places in Bangkok Thailand. Qualitative research was used and data were collected from 15 key informants by using in-depth interview. Participatory observation was also used for data collection. Content analysis and analytic induction were used for data analysis. Results indicated that 1) Using English of tourist guides at Buddhist places showed that tourist guides should be able to explain specific words and technical term, to give basic knowledge in Buddhist places, speak with correct grammar, and to use simple and general conversation. They also need to make it simple in order to explain Thai culture and tradition including Buddhist philosophy. They used books and brochure to enhance their knowledge and ability to entertain and make tourists laugh and to explain the history of Buddhist places. 2) Using English technique for international tourism should ask the tourist about general information, show the symbol of Thai, speak in general words and sentences, explain the meaning of Buddhist places, explain the correct information, and to focus on the important place relating to Buddhist places and Thai cultures. 3) For guideline of English used for international tourism used by tourist guides at Buddhist tourist places in Bangkok Thailand, it can be suggested into 2 aspects. The first guideline was using English for the new tourist guide. It showed that guides tried to use English as Thai people. They should take course and learn from native teachers, should have knowledge about grammar and vocabularies. The second guideline was the best way of English development for being a tourist guide. Guides should use simple vocabularies, show good manner and be polite to tourists, study more vocabularies relating to Buddhist tourist places, and keep on practicing of using English at Buddhist tourist places until having confident.