Exploring memorable peer-to-peer local-guided experience: the role of guide performance in Istanbul

Although the importance of peer-to-peer tours is well-established in research, the academic community and destination planners have given limited attention to the aspect of memorable experiences in relation to tour performance. Addressing previous calls for research on this matter, this paper aims to explore memorable peer-to-peer local-guided experiences in the context of guide performance in a developing destination (Istanbul). For this purpose, a qualitative approach was employed in this research, utilizing reviews posted by travelers on a peer-to-peer platform. A total of 2,956 narratives, regarding thirty-nine local guides, were included in the data analysis, representing travelers’ overall memorable experiences. The analysis revealed five key components: cultural connection, travel companionship, crowd avoidance, personalized experience, social interaction, and challenges in peer-to-peer interactions. This paper provides significant insight for the stakeholders involved in the development of local guiding, as well as for academics seeking to structure their research logic on peer-to-peer guiding services.