The Language of Silence in Tour Guiding: The Importance of Turkish Sign Language

Abstract

Sign language is a method preferred by individuals with hearing impairments for communication. It is the only way to establish healthy communication with hearing-impaired individuals. In the context of tourism, tour guides play a significant role in using sign language as a communication tool. The profession of tour guiding holds an essential position in terms of cultural transmission and communication. However, communication challenges faced by hearing-impaired individuals can negatively impact the quality of their tourist experience. This study provides a conceptual perspective on the importance of Turkish Sign Language (TSL) for hearing-impaired tourists and examines its role in the profession of tour guiding. While emphasizing the importance of accessible tourism, the study discusses how tour guides' proficiency in TSL can contribute to the experiences of hearing-impaired tourists. In this context, it also presents recommendations for sustainable and inclusive tourism.