Guidelines for Community Based Tourism Development in the Three Southern Border Provinces Based on Thailand’s Criteria for Community Based Tourism

Abstract

This study aims to provide guidelines for enhancing the potential of CBT based on the Community-based Tourism Development Criteria of Thailand to improve the local economy of the three southern border provinces. Mixed methods were employed in this study, and the sample consisted of representatives of public and private agencies, villagers and community leaders. The community -based tourism development criteria of Thailand and the interview form were used in the data collection. The data was analyzed using content analysis and descriptive statistics such as percentage, mean and standard deviation techniques. The results of the study showed that community- based tourism must be conducted and have effective management guidelines connected to the community-based tourism development criteria of Thailand to improve the local economy of the three southern border provinces with the link of personnel development, destination development and group management. Specifically, the first step is providing knowledge and experience in the CBT management to community members. Then, destinations must be developed regarding their diversity and the identity of resources community. Finally, communities must proceed to create effective regulations and management rules for sustainability. Notably, this relational process must be an ongoing operation.