Cultural Tourism Management for Sustainable Tourism in Krabi Province, Thailand

Abstract

According to cultural tourism is a world mass trend and it is growing at a faster rate than any other form of tourism, in particular, cultural tourism in the long run can serve its aim much more appropriately in relation to mass and sustainable tourism (Eser, Dalgin, & Ceken, 2013). The research “cultural tourism management for sustainable tourism in Krabi province, Thailand” is designed to enhance the strength of local economies through tourism, encouraging provincial administrators and all stakeholders to participate in determining a model for sustainable cultural tourism in the province.

The objectives of this research were; 1) to investigate the attitudes of tourists towards cultural tourism in Krabi province; 2) to investigate all stakeholders to participate in determining a sustainable tourism in Krabi province; 3) to investigate the process of management for cultural tourism in Krabi province; 4) to propose the model for sustainable cultural tourism in Krabi province. This research employed the qualitative approach utilizing documentary research, content analysis, site surveys and in-depth interview with key informants consist of government officials, hospitality entrepreneurs, cultural experts, Buddhist monks, local residents and tourists who have an experience on cultural tourism directly and it is suitable for this research.

The result showed that Krabi province is well-known for its plentiful natural attractions but little attention has been given to its cultural attractions. A small number of people know about cultural tourism in Krabi province but the potential of cultural heritages can be managed and promoted for cultural tourism as secondary attractions. Seeking a cooperation between stakeholders are crucially important for cultural tourism. All sectors are required to manage on cultural tourism consists of conservation, management and new creation for sustainable tourism in Krabi province, Thailand.

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