MANAGEMENT AND DEVELOPMENT OF CULTURAL AND TRADITIONAL TOURISM IN AYUTTHAYA PROVINCE

Abstract

Objectives of this research article were to study the general condition and problem condition, indicators and propose a model of management and development of cultural and traditional tourism in Ayutthaya Province.  Methodology was the qualitative research, collecting data by in-depth-interviewing 18 key informants. Findings were as follows: 1. Ayutthaya Province have many beautiful ancient places attracting tourists from all over the world, multi-cultural society, religious diversity and peaceful city. Most monasteries emphasized only temple tourism without knowledge dissemination to tourists. 2. Indicators of management of cultural and traditional tourism in Ayutthaya Province consisted of 8 components with 9 indicators, such as tourist attraction management committee appointment, etc. 3. Models of management and development of cultural and traditional tourism of Ayutthaya Province consisted of 3 models: 1) A model of tourist attraction efficiency development with appropriate tourist attractions, 2) A model of tourist welcome that was the motivation of local people to be aware and proud to be the part of the community that were clean, safe, not dangerous to tourists. 3) A model of administration; consisted of creative tourist attractions development for local culture and environment learning center.