The Success of Community-Based Tourism Managementin Chiang Mai Province

Abstract

The purposes of this research were 1) to study the characteristics of successful community-based tourism management in Chiang Mai province and 2) to study the favorable conditions for successful community-based tourism management in Chiang Mai province. The areas of study were 1) Ban Mae Kampong, Village No. 3, Huay Kaew Sub-district, Mae On District, Chiang Mai Province and 2) Baan Rai Kong Khing, Village No. 3, Nong Khwai Sub-district, Hang Dong District, Chiang Mai Province.

The qualitative methods, namely documentary study, in-depth interview, key informant and observation were employed. The data were analyzed by comparing with the conceptual framework and theory. The key informants included 1) 2 community leaders from each community, 10 key leaders from each community who play a main role in the management of tourist attractions: a total of 24 people; 2) 5 villagers who were the owners of shops and homestays from each community: a total of 10 people; 3) 2 mentors from the organizations supporting the community tourism: 1 person was from Thailand Community-Based Tourism Institute (CBTI), and 1 person was from Designated Areas for Sustainable Tourism Administration (DASTA); and 4) 1 local administrative organization officer from each community: a total of 2 persons. Tape recording and note-taking were used for data record. Comparative analysis between the two communities were administered for data analysis.

The results showed that the success of tourism management by Baan Rai Kong Khing and Baan Mae Kampong can be assessed from the following indicators: 1) having a constant number of tourists visiting the community, 2) increasing income and distributing income fairly and equally, 3) better quality of life of the people in the community, 4) preserving the environment and nature of the community and 5) preserving local culture. The conditions affecting the success of community-based tourism management were 1) planning of responsible persons for tourist attractions, 2) tourism resource management, 3) management of quality services at tourist attractions, 4) leader, 5) social capital and 6) external support