The Community-Based Tourism Activities and Sustainable Tourism Management by the Local Community of Ban Tham Suea in Phetchaburi Province

Abstract

          The study aimed to: 1) study community-based tourism activities in Ban Tham Suea community, 2) investigate community-based tourism management in Ban Tham Suea community, and 3) propose guidelines for sustainable tourism activity management in Ban Tham Suea community. The study employed a qualitative research method, collecting data through document research, in-depth interviews, focus group discussions, and observation. The sample group comprised 24 individuals, including those involved in community-based tourism management in Ban Tham Suea, those involved in operating community-based tourism in Ban Tham Suea, and tourists who had visited Ban Tham Suea. Data validation utilized methodological triangulation and content analysis.

          The study found that community tourism activities in Ban Tham Suea consist of three main categories: 1) Nature-based tourism activities, such as river cruising and camping. 2) Cultural tourism activities, including food preparation, making preserved eggs with pandan leaves, rolling Tong Muan (Thai Snack), and traditional pottery. 3)Ecotourism activities, such as estimating the value of trees, mixing soil, and making seed bombs. Regarding sustainable community-based tourism management, the community's roles in managing tourism activities were identified as development and control. The guidelines for sustainable tourism activity management in Ban Tham Suea community are as follows: 1) The community should manage tourism activities sustainably by planning and implementing activities that prioritize quality, safety, and environmental conservation. 2) The community should seek diverse tourism activities and establish connections with nearby tourist attractions to expand tourism opportunities to other communities. 3) Community leaders or tourism management committees should incorporate local wisdom, culture, and traditions into tourism activities. 4) There should be close collaboration and integration among government agencies, community leaders, and tourism