The Strategic Development of Sustainable Tourism in the Golden Triangle Special Economic Zone, Lao PDR

Abstract

This article aims to; 1) analyze the current state of tourism in the Golden Triangle Special Economic Zone, Lao PDR, and 2) develop a sustainable tourism development strategy for the Golden Triangle Special Economic Zone, Lao PDR. The sample for the quantitative research consisted of 272 tourism and service operators in the Golden Triangle Special Economic Zone, Lao PDR, and 400 tourists visiting the area. The target group for the strategy development included representatives from tourism and service operators, government agencies overseeing the zone, and representatives from King’s Roman, totaling 15 people. The research instruments included a questionnaire and focus group discussions. Data were analyzed using statistical software, with descriptive statistics presented in terms of frequency, percentage, mean, and standard deviation. The research findings revealed that tourism operators had a favorable opinion about the attractions and accommodations in the area, but suggested improvements in accessibility. Tourists expressed positive views regarding service quality, particularly in terms of reliability, and recommended the development of infrastructure and facilities, as well as promoting sustainable tourism and community participation. The strategies derived from the analysis of the internal and external environment of the tourism context in the Golden Triangle Special Economic Zone, Lao PDR, include 1) developing infrastructure and facilities, 2) utilizing digital technology to create new and engaging tourism experiences, 3) promoting community involvement in tourism creation and management, and 4) building the image of the Golden Triangle Special Economic Zone as an internationally recognized creative tourism destination.