The International School of Tourism, Suratthani Rajabhat University, organized the “Outbound Guide Training Camp” during 21–28 August 2025, along the route Surat Thani – Nakhon Ratchasima – Mukdahan – Savannakhet (Laos) – Hue – Danang – Hoi An (Vietnam).
The project aimed to enhance competencies and professional skills of senior Tourism students, preparing them to become qualified Outbound Guides and Tour Leaders through real practice in cross-border guiding and tour management.
This training camp was designed to provide students with hands-on learning experiences that complement classroom theories. Students practiced key roles of an outbound tour guide, such as:
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Tour commentary and interpretation
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Destination presentation
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Customer care and facilitation
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Coordination with Land Operators and related agencies
They also learned to adapt quickly to unexpected situations, strengthen teamwork, and build confidence in handling international tour groups
Learning Route and Activities
Over 8 days and 7 nights, students engaged in real practice along domestic and international routes, including:
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Nakhon Ratchasima – Mukdahan – Savannakhet (Laos)
Practiced guiding and commentary, studied cross-border immigration procedures. -
Hue (Vietnam)
Visited UNESCO World Heritage sites such as the Imperial City and Dai Noi Palace, joined the Perfume River Cruise with traditional royal dance performances. -
Danang (Vietnam)
Explored the iconic Dragon Bridge, practiced live tour commentary, and learned about urban tourism management. -
Hoi An (Vietnam)
Guided at Hoi An Ancient Town, Japanese Bridge, and old merchant houses, emphasizing cultural interpretation. -
Bana Hills (Vietnam)
Experienced the world-record cable car, explored the Golden Bridge, French Village, Le Jardin d’Amour Flower Garden, and The Fantasy Park theme zone.
Benefits for Students
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Developed practical skills as Outbound Guides
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Learned the responsibilities of Tour Leaders in international group tours
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Applied field experiences to academic learning and professional training
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Strengthened teamwork and collaboration among peers
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Collected case-based insights for analyzing and addressing tourism management challenges
The Outbound Guide Training Camp not only provided students with opportunities to explore cultural and natural attractions across Laos and Vietnam, but also served as an essential platform for building real-world experience. The program equips IST graduates with knowledge, skills, and professional standards that meet the demands of the tourism industry, aligning with the university’s mission to raise the quality of education and contribute to sustainable local development.
Academic Integration
The camp was integrated into key courses, including:
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ITM0107 Tour Program Planning and Management
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IST0009 Research for Service Industry
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ITH0007 Cultural Heritage and Local Wisdom for Tourism
This ensured that students could connect theory with real-world practice effectively.
