The Influence of Tour Guide Competence on The Economic Impact of Tourism Through Tourist Satisfaction

This study aims to analyze the effect of Tour Guide Competence on Tourism Economic Impact through Tourist Satisfaction as a mediating variable. The research employed a quantitative method with an explanatory approach. Data were collected from 200 tourists who had previously used tour guide services at selected tourism destinations through questionnaire distribution using a five-point Likert scale. The sampling technique applied was purposive sampling. The data analysis technique utilized Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) based on Partial Least Squares (PLS) using SmartPLS software. The results of the study indicate that Tour Guide Competence has a significant positive effect on Tourist Satisfaction and Tourism Economic Impact. In addition, Tourist Satisfaction significantly affects Tourism Economic Impact. The findings also confirm that Tourist Satisfaction significantly mediates the relationship between Tour Guide Competence and Tourism Economic Impact. These results demonstrate that competent tour guides are capable of creating satisfying tourism experiences, which subsequently encourage tourists to increase tourism expenditures, extend their length of stay, and contribute positively to tourism-related economic activities. This study contributes theoretically to the development of tourism studies, particularly regarding the strategic role of tourism human resources in supporting sustainable tourism economic development. Practically, the findings provide valuable insights for governments, tourism destination managers, and tourism stakeholders in improving tour guide competence to enhance tourist satisfaction and strengthen the economic impact of tourism.