Tourism Potential of Phu Sang Border Town Phayao Province as the Link with Neighboring Countries in Greater Mekong Sub-region

Abstract

The objectives of this study were to know the context of resource, culture and tourism data of Phu Sang border town or Baan Huag community and then evaluate tourism potential that linkก with neighboring countries in the Greater Mekong Sub-region. This research was  non-experimental design, using qualitative research techniques such as documents research, survey research, interviews and brainstorming (focus group). The sample groups were 10 community leaders and Phu Sang Border Town Tourism Development Boards, 10 government officers, 25 employees (business) and 10 specialists. For quantitative research techniques, use questionnaire in the collection of information from 112 visitors. In short, Phu Sang border town is an area that has the high potential level to link with neighboring countries in the Greater Mekong Sub-region in particular. 1) the physical location potential of the community, 2) tourism resources potential of Baan Huag and Phu Sang district such as cultural and natural, 3) potential of community tourism management that local people have positive attitude to the development of tourism. However, we should develop knowledge of tourism management for leaders and Phu Sang Border Town Tourism Development Boards and 4) tourism market potential and tourist behavior found that the current urban boundary Phu Sang is best associated. Tourists come to stay in homestay and shopping for fabric types souvenirs. The seven colors woven fabric the textile from Lao PDR, and border market at Thailand-Lao border and two land offering alms. For tourism development linked to the Lao PDR, the visitors were mainly interested in the other way/tourism activities and services, Visiting Mekong River, visiting Muangcob and Chaiya Buri town, visiting communities living in Lao PDR can travel to Luang Prabang by crossing Baan Huag border.