Developing the Potential of Eastern Seaside Attractions to become New Tourist Destinations for South Asian Tourists

Abstract

A study on Developing the Potential of Eastern Seaside Attractions to become New Tourist Destinations for South Asian Tourists was conducted using participatory action research (PAR) and a qualitative data collection method. The objectives were to. - 1) develop new tourist attractions for South Asian tourists in the eastern seaside, 2) create engagement between communities, locals, and provinces to bolster the area’s international reputation, and 3) promote tourism management to suit South Asian tourists’ needs. The study area covered four eastern coastal provinces: Chonburi, Rayong, Chanthaburi, and Trat. The results are presented as an overview of the area’s potential development direction. The results were also used for the entrepreneurs’ workshop involving 425 participants.The results showed that the service provided reflected a lack of experience and understanding of South Asian tourist behavior, especially the need for accommodation and foods compatible with religious restrictions. Tourism routes should be developed to be more convenient, shorten travel time, and connecting the main tourist attractions to local communities. Moreover, a strategy for public relations is required by using social media and soft power to penetrate the target groups within the limitations of each area. Lastly, promoting ecotourism and community-based tourism will reduce the repetitiveness of the sights and create a positive attitude toward Thai seaside tourism

Keywords

• tourist
• south asia
• potential
• eastern seaside
• thailand