Guidelines for Developing Creative Tourism Based on Community Life of Koh Sichang Chonburi Province

Abstract

          Koh Sichang is a destination where has been in the curiosity of tourists for a long time. Recently, the epidemic of the Coronavirus 2019 has drastically reduced the number of tourists.  To find ways to develop the tourism of Koh Sichang, this research therefore aims to 1) study the general information and conditions of Koh Sichang 2) study the way of life, traditions and tourism problems of Koh Sichang; and 3) present guidelines for tourism development and creative tourism activities based on the community lifestyle of Koh Sichang. A qualitative research was used for data collection, in-depth interview, and non-participate observation technique. Data were analyzed by content analysis; the results were reported through descriptive techniques.

           The research found that 1) Koh Sichang was a convenient and accessible destination with full tourism facilities. There were interesting tourist attractions, both natural and historical. Generally, there were problem of water supply, electricity and pollution. 2) People had jobs related to tourism in the highest proportion. There were some interesting and unique festivals in Koh Sichang but no tourism activities based on community lifestyle.3) Tourism development should be in the form of creative tourism by adapting the community lifestyle to tourism activities, and enhancing skills in various fields for the community in order to achieve sustainable development.