The Republic of Moldova has 11 internationally accredited guides
Eleven guides from the Republic of Moldova have earned international certificates, enabling them to provide services that meet global standards and welcome tourists at a higher professional level. This initiative responds to the growing number of foreign tourists visiting our country and the shortage of qualified specialists in the field.
Tour guides' certifications adhere to the standards set by the World Federation of Tour Guide Associations. The authorities aim to continue the professionalization process to strengthen the Republic of Moldova’s position on the map of international tourist destinations.
The training program is based on an initiative that began a few years ago, focused on training local professionals at a high level.
“This international accreditation enables guides to provide their services according to high standards,” said Elena Stepanov, the executive director of the National Association for Inbound and Domestic Tourism of the Republic of Moldova (ANTRIM), during the May 4 edition of the show “Bună dimineața” on Moldova 1.
Stefanov noted that the need to organize this course arose from the acute shortage of guides, particularly with the increasing influx of tourists. “We are experiencing a rise in tourist numbers, but we face a significant shortage of guides, which has driven us to seek solutions to either professionalize the existing guides or create new opportunities,” she explained.
Many participants in the program are former translators seeking to expand their career options. “Half of those who have taken this course are actually former translators who have chosen to diversify their activities,” Stepanov added.
Guides in the Republic of Moldova work both in collaboration with travel agencies and independently, promoting their services on specialized platforms like "Guides of Moldova." Their role is crucial in shaping the country's image.
“Guides are the ambassadors and the first connection that a tourist has with the Republic of Moldova,” said Stepanov, highlighting the importance of providing quality services.
The training program focuses on developing essential skills, “starting with fundamental needs such as public speaking and integrating heritage into the storytelling presented to tourists.”
“The same story should be adapted to the tourist’s profile, needs, and interests. For instance, if we are discussing thematic tours for medical professionals, they require a different type of information than those focused on cultural experiences,” said the director of ANTRIM.
Although there is no formal mechanism to monitor the guides' activities, they regularly attend meetings to enhance their services.
“They have created a community and participate in courses that meet weekly to analyze and discuss market trends,” Stepanov mentioned, adding that the drive for quality stems from their desire to receive future recommendations.
Courses for small groups
This initiative is part of an international partnership that includes organizations from Armenia and involves considerable costs, which are partially covered by partners and participants. The courses are organized for small groups to ensure personalized training.
Also, authorities and organizations in the sector have developed programs aimed at training staff in management, reception, and hotel operations within the hospitality industry.
Recent developments indicate a positive trend for tourism in the Republic of Moldova.
“The number of tourists continues to grow, and we see a diverse range of markets sending visitors to the Republic of Moldova,” Stepanov said. She added that increased accessibility, including through low-cost flights, plays a significant role in tourists' decisions to visit the country.
According to data from the National Bureau of Statistics, over 90,000 visitors arrived in the Republic of Moldova last year, representing an increase of approximately 34% compared to 2024.
The largest groups of foreign tourists came from Ukraine (35.1%) and Romania (20.4%), followed by visitors from the United States (4.7%), Germany (3.3%), and Turkey (3%). On average, a foreign tourist spends about three days in the country, while the average length of stay at accommodation facilities is four days.
