The State of Tourist Attractions in the Mun River Basin

This is a qualitative research that uses interviews and focus group discussions to assess the state of tourist attractions in five provinces along the Mun River in North-eastern Thailand. Fifteen tourist attractions are examined in seven categories- transportation, food, accommodation, souvenirs, information services, activities and marketing. Both cultural and natural attractions have similar problems. The attractions have poor access roads, weak identities, a lack of information and inadequate services. A set of suggestions are made to combat the problems that can be summarised as five general solutions to combat obstacles to cultural tourism and ecotourism in the area. Firstly, management must place greater emphasis on cultural heritage. Secondly, local institutions must provide more sponsorship. Thirdly, community participation must be increased. Fourthly, attractions must be systematically regulated. Finally, information and education must be prioritised.