The Readiness of Roi Et Province in Becoming Buddhist Tourism Destination for Elderly Tourist Group

Abstract

The elderly has become emerging tourism market as many countries across the globe are experiencing aging society. As Roi Et province is home for Buddhism sites where can be promoted for the elderly tourist group. Thus, this research aimed to: 1) explore general characteristics of the elderly tourist group visiting this province; 2) identify the factors relating the elderly behavior at their destinations; 3) suggest guideline for future development of Roi Et province in becoming Buddhist tourism destination for elderly tourist group. The mixed methodology was employed in this research. For the quantitative research, a total of 400 questionnaires were collected with the elderly tourists (60 years or older). The quantitative data was analysed by using percentage, mean and standard deviation. For the qualitative research the semi-structured interview was conducted with a total of eight representatives from the stakeholders of Roi Et Buddhist tourism destination. The qualitative data was analysed by using content analysis technique. The results concluded that:  

1. The majority of elderly tourists travelling to Roi Et’s Buddhist tourism destination were female; aged between 60 and 64 years old; having residence in other provinces; travelled with family members or relatives and used private car; travelled on weekend and on one-day-trip; and the elderly chose to visit Roi Et’s well-known Buddhism sites.


2. The study revealed that the major motivation to travel was to spend time with family/ friends/ beloved persons. It also identified several factors relating the elderly tourism destination choice, that they mostly focused on: 1) attractiveness of tourism destination; 2) level of accessibility to the destination; 3) activities at the destination; 4) tourist facilities; and 5) accommodation, respectively.


3. The study concluded that, Roi Et province is generally ready for hosting mass tourist groups. However, it requires further improvement for catering the elderly tourist. The study suggested that, all stakeholders from private and public sectors of Roi Et Province should understand physical limitation and travelling behaviors of the elderly and provide the services and facilities that can fulfill their needs at the destination.