Khlong Thom Saline Hot Spring Participatory Sustainable Tourism Management

Abstract

This research aimed to (1) examine the conditions of health tourism resources in the case of the Khlong Thom Salt Hot Spring, Krabi Province (2) investigate participatory management for sustainable tourism and (3) explore guidelines for sustainable management. The study employed a qualitative approach, collecting data through in-depth interviews with 15 key informants from the government, private sector, and local community. Purposive sampling was applied, and data were analyzed using content analysis. The findings revealed that in terms of resource conditions, the Khlong Thom Salt Hot Spring possesses high potential for development as a health tourism destination due to its unique natural resources associated with therapeutic benefits, as well as its role in generating community income, although further improvements in facilities remain necessary. The government plays a role in ensuring safety standards, while the private sector supports service quality, community training, and integrated marketing with the local community. Regarding management, the community participates by establishing management committees, enforcing regulations, and training local guides. Meanwhile, the government and private sector focus on developing hot spring routes connected with other tourist attractions, promoting health tourism marketing, and creating collaborative platforms. In terms of participation, the community plays an active role with clearly defined responsibilities and receives support from the government in terms of knowledge and funding. However, certain decision-making processes remain government-centered, and benefit-sharing has not yet been fully equitable.