THE POTENTIAL OF ECO-TOURISM MANAGEMENT OF BAN HAT SOM PAEN COMMUNITY, RANONG PROVINCE

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to investigate the potential of Ban Hat Som Paen community in tourist attraction management using qualitative research methods, in-depth interviews, and observations. The conclusions obtained from interviews with key informants revealed that Ban Hat Som Paen integrated as a tourist attraction management group under the leadership of the new generation and later developed the committee structure into a CIV (village is considered a community) that recognizes the importance of tourism as a source of sustainable income for the community. This reflects the true participation of the community in thinking, doing, making decisions, sharing responsibility, and sharing the benefits. An important factor in management has been based on extending the way of life of the local people until it can be developed into a community with potential as a tourist attraction under the leadership of the new generation of young people.
The research findings from the observations found that the location of the ecotourism attraction was natural and suitable for the promotion and development of a sustainable tourist destination. This has facilities to provide services, including accommodation in homestays that support even if it is still not enough, The transportation by car or bus is convenient. Internet and telephone communications are convenient.