ANALYSIS OF INTERCULTURAL COMMUNICATION BARRIERS BETWEEN TOURISTS AND LOCAL RESIDENTS IN THE TOURISM PROCESS

This study comprehensively analyzes the complex dynamics of intercultural communication between tourists and local communities, which is an important component of the global tourism industry. The study identifies and examines the main barriers that hinder effective interaction, including linguistic mismatch, different value systems, embedded social stereotypes, and the phenomenon of “culture shock.” In addition to identifying these barriers, the article explores proactive strategies for mitigating them, such as increasing cultural intelligence (CQ) among tourism professionals, developing empathetic communication, and implementing adaptive strategies tailored to specific national mentalities. The findings suggest that minimizing psychological and linguistic barriers significantly improves service quality, strengthens the competitive advantage of the hospitality business, and fosters sustainable international relationships. This study serves as a strategic framework for tourism managers and practitioners who aim to enrich the overall experience of visitors and develop mutual cultural appreciation.