Bang Krathum Model: Area Based Approach Strategies to Strengthen Sustainable and Creative Communities

Abstract

The purposes of this research article were 1) to study and develop Buddhist and cultural tourism in Bang Krathum District, Phitsanulok Province; and 2) to propose the strategies for area-based approach of Bang Krathum District, Phitsanulok Province, to build the sustainable and creative communities based on Buddhism. This research was a qualitative research. Key informants were community representatives, government agencies, monks, local people in the area of ​​Bang Krathum District, and tourists, totaling 30 people, by purposive sampling and focus group discussions with 10 people involved. The research results found that 1) the development of Buddhist and cultural tourism in Bang Krathum District, Phitsanulok Province had 6 aspects: 1.1) in the aspect of ability to organize tourism programs, the communities should connect with relevant agencies, 1.2) in terms of the ability to access temples, municipalities, and relevant agencies, there should be support for the production of advertising and public relations media, 1.3) in terms of attractions, there should be coordination between relevant tourism agencies to assist with advertising and public relations, 1.4) in the aspect of facilities, clear signs or locations should be provided, 1.5) in terms of activities, tourism identity should be created for excellence and the distinctiveness of Buddhist and cultural tourist attractions, and 1.6) in terms of tourist service, information centers for tourism should be established at various important tourist attractions, 2) the strategies for development of Bang Krathum District, Phitsanulok Province, to create sustainable and creative communities according to Buddhism by integrating Sappaya 7 can be summarized into 4 strategies: 2.1) creating good health in both physical and mental health of people in the communities sustainably, 2.2) managing the environment to make various places in the communities more livable, 2.3) preventing and solving drug problems in the communities effectively, 2.4) producing quality and safe agricultural products.