The potential and strategy on tourism promotion and development in the Eastern Economic Corridor: A case study of the Eastern Province Cluster 2, Thailand

Abstract

This research was conducted to respond to the direction of Thailand tourism driving the future which requires an effective tourism development plan, making a contribution to income gain and bolstering the economic strength of Thailand. Tourism must also meet tourists’ needs without causing any negative impact on society, and the environment. In addition, a tourism trends in the global market with increasing market share, creating a tourism balance with inclusive income distribution to local communities and also increasing potential and competitive advantage for Thai tourism personnel and operators is required. The research objective was to examine tourism potential and development of the Eastern Economic Corridor and also to design a strategy for tourism promotion and development in this focus area. The research methodology was conducted through data collection from a documentary literature study and in-depth interviews aimed at exploring the tourism potential and development including conversations with the focus group. This was to create participation for analysis of the environment and determine the strategy on tourism promotion and development in the case study. The research findings revealed that the strategy on tourism promotion and development comprised 4 SO strategies, 1 WO strategy, 1 ST strategy and 1 WT strategy, respectively.

Keywords

• tourism potential
• strategy on tourism promotion and development
• eastern economic corridor