CULTURAL TOURISM MANAGEMENT OF MONASTERIES IN KOH SAMUI DISTRICT, SURAT THANI PROVINCE

Abstract

Objectives of this search article were: 1. study the level of management, 2. study the problems and obstacles to management, and 3. study management guidelines for cultural tourism sites in temples in Koh Samui District, Surat Thani Province. This is a mixed-methods study that combines quantitative and qualitative approaches. Quantitative research used questionnaires with a sample of 398 people. The data were analyzed using frequency, percentage, mean, standard deviation, and descriptive statistics. Qualitative research involved in-depth interviews with 10 key informants (comprising monks and laypeople) divided into 4 groups. The data were analyzed using content analysis and summarized descriptively in a narrative form.

Findings were as follows: 1. The overall level of management was high ( = 3.63), and when considered individually, all aspects were at a high level. 2. Problems and obstacles to management included: the lack of systematic conveyance of historical and symbolic value of attractions; insufficient facilities to accommodate the number of tourists; a lack of clear systems and standards in service provision, leading to inconsistent quality; and a lack of continuity in activities, being organized only during and important dates, and 3. Guidelines for managing cultural tourism destinations indicate that management practices should clearly define the roles and responsibilities between monks and laypeople, along with systematic and long-term tourism planning and budget allocation. This should be coupled with the continuous management and maintenance of equipment, supported by a clear and independent management structure and plan. Furthermore, religious values and the history of the temple should be conveyed in an easily understandable manner. Facilities should be provided appropriately, and services and activities should be tailored to the religious context and monastic way of life.