Books and Borders: Exploring the Holiday-Tourism Narratives of ASEAN Students Studying in Thailand
Keywords:
ASEAN Students, Thailand, Holiday Tourism, PhenomenologyAbstract
This qualitative study explored the holiday-tourism narratives of ASEAN students in Thailand, highlighting leisure travel as a vital aspect of personal development and well-being. Using a descriptive phenomenological method, semi-structured interviews were conducted with eight undergraduates from Myanmar, Cambodia, Laos, and the Philippines. Data were analyzed through iterative coding and thematic synthesis, revealing six themes: Rejuvenation and escape, nature-centric destinations, group travel logistics, cultural immersion, identity development, and coping with constraints. Findings indicate that holiday tourism extends beyond recreation, serving as a form of stress relief, an informal intercultural classroom, and a means of fostering ASEAN identity. Despite barriers related to finances, academic schedules, and visas, students employed adaptive strategies such as cost-sharing, short trips, and digital tools, transforming obstacles into opportunities for growth. The study highlights tourism’s role in supporting mental health, intercultural learning, and regional belonging, and proposes practical measures such as student-friendly travel packages, flexible calendars, and language assistance initiatives. This research contributes to broader understandings of youth mobility and social dimensions of tourism in Southeast Asia.
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