Sustainable Enhancement of Community-Based Tourism Through Buddhist Cultural Practices in Mueang Chonburi District, Chonburi Province

Abstract

This research aims to study the sustainable enhancement of community-based tourism rooted in Buddhist culture in Mueang District, Chonburi Province, Thailand. A mixed-method approach was employed, combining quantitative and qualitative research. The sample population consisted of: 1) 400 residents from Mueang District, Chonburi Province, 2) 7 key informants through interviews, 3) 5 participants in a focus group, and 4) 20 experts in planning and policy through purposive sampling. Research tools included: 1) surveys, 2) interviews, and 3) evaluation forms. The data were analyzed using frequency, percentage, mean, standard deviation, and content analysis. The research findings revealed the following 1) The current and desired state of sustainable community-based tourism rooted in Buddhist culture in Mueang District, Chonburi Province showed that the desired state had a higher mean score than the current state in all areas and aspects, with an overall high level of importance. The most urgent need for improvement in tourism was the ability to organize tourism programs, followed by accessibility. The least pressing need was in the area of facilities. 2) The development plan for enhancing sustainable community-based tourism rooted in Buddhist culture in Mueang District, Chonburi Province, consists of 1 vision, 4 strategies, 10 tactics, and 50 projects. 3) The evaluation of the plan indicated that it was highly suitable, feasible, and beneficial, with overall high scores, and it is practical for implementation.