DEVELOPMENT ACTIVITIES AND PROGRAMS OF COMMUNITY BASE RIVERSIDE TOURISM IN NONG SUANG VILLAGE, KRACHAENG SUB-DISTRICT, BANG SAI DISTRICT, PHRA NAKHON SI AYUTTHAYA PROVINCE

Abstract

The objectives of this research were to 1) study the tourism potential of Nong Suang Village, and 2) develop and evaluate community-based riverside lifestyle tourism activities and programs in Nong Suang Village, Krachaeng Sub-district, Bang Sai District, Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya Province. This study employed Participatory Action Research (PAR). Data collection involved 15 participants, including tourism group members, community leaders, and researchers. The development of tourism activities and programs was conducted through training and focus group discussions with 30 participants, comprising tourism group members, community leaders, and interested residents, selected through purposive sampling. A trial tour involved 43 participants selected through purposive sampling, including government agency representatives, academics, and tourists. The research instruments consisted of interview guides and questionnaires. Data were analyzed using descriptive and statistical analysis.

The research findings revealed that 1) the community had tourism potential in culture and history, including riverside attractions, facilities, and quality environmental management, and 2) the community developed 11 tourism activities and 3 tourism programs. The evaluation results showed that the developed activities and programs received a high level of satisfaction (  = 4.33). Recommendations include that community organizations and tourism promotion agencies should improve transportation routes and systems, promote online media usage, develop service skills, and establish networks with nearby communities to enhance economic opportunities and sustainable tourism.