Sustainable Integrated Tourism Development Potential in Bangkok

Abstract

This research aims to examine the potentiality to develop integrated sustainable tourism in Metropolitan Bangkok. This research uses qualitative method with the following instruments; namely community study checklists, tourism resource audit checklists and in-dept interviews and focus groups. Qualitative data are collected from 32 keys informants belonging to the government sector, private sector, members of general public and tourist sectors in Bangkok. Data are verified and analyzed with triangulation and content analysis methods.

The results of the research are as follows: Bangkok offers outstanding tourism resources in nature, culture, tradition, activities and services such as the Chao Phraya River, The temple of the Emerald Buddha, The Songkran festival, temple visits, shopping, and quality accommodation. In term of SWOT and TOWS analysis, it is found that Bangkok is located in the heart of South East Asia with convenient access to diverse resources, and excellent logistic system. However, Bangkok needs to elaborate its strategic plan for integrated sustainable tourism development. To conclude, Bangkok offers tourism resource potentials, tourism sustainable management with potential people participations as well as activities to raise environmental awareness potentials to develop sustainable tourism.