Assessment of Readiness to Support Tourism for All : Kao Koed Community, Bangpa-in District, Phranakhon Si Ayutthaya Province

Abstract

Tourism for all is currently an international phenomenon. In Thailand, community tourism has gained substantial support from the government. This study aims to 1) study the context of Kao Koed Community and 2) assess service standards of the facilities and community readiness of Kao Koed Community, Phranakhon Si Ayutthaya Province, to support tourism for all. This study utilizes the Department of Tourism's Tourist Service Standards Assessment Form for those with impairments, the elderly, families with young children, and pregnant women. Nine specialists evaluated all three components and conducted in-depth interviews with three key informants on specific issues. The data was analyzed using an aggregate score, average score, and content analysis.

The results showed that tourism in this community started with health tourism before expanding to cover agro-tourism and cultural tourism. Also, tourists interested in visiting the community regularly. With an average of only 12.84 points out of a possible 52, the results indicated that the level of the community's service for all should be improved. The average score for the management component was 4.44 out of a possible 12, while the service and the environment aspects obtained scores of 5.53 and 2.87 out of 20 points, respectively. In addition, the information obtained from the interview suggested that the locals are willing and delighted to accommodate tourists. However, there should be sufficient service training regarding the elderly and individuals with impairments. Furthermore, adequate funds should be allocated to improve the surroundings to accommodate every tourist group.