EcoTourism EXPLORING THAILAND'S ECOTOURISM WONDERS
VOL. 01
Table of Contents 02
06
CHIANGMAI TRIUMPS
UGLIES OF ECO TOURISM UNMASKED
10
14
BLUEPRINT OF MODERN ECOTOURISM
MAYA’S REDEMPTION STORY
18
20
TURQUOISE SEA, CARBON-FREE
EFFECTIVENESS OF THAILAND’S GREEN ROADMAP
22
24
NEW PROVINCE, NEW TOURISM: BUENG KAN
THE BEST ECO-EXPERIENCE IN THAILAND
26
30
AMAZING THAILAND: A DOSE OF PARADISE
THE COEXISTING OF THAILAND TOURISM AND NATURE
32
34
BAMBOO BLISS: AN ECO-FRIENDLY RETREAT
WONDERFRUIT: SUSTAINABLE FESTIVAL
36 THAILAND BCG-INTEGRATION
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CHIANG MAI’s SUCCESS STORY
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Chiang Mai Triumps Ecotourism written by Witsawachit Athaporn | 6448066028
In a bid to promote net-zero tourism, the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) rolled out a new roadmap in Q3 2023, shifting tourists to sustainable destinations and patronizing local SMEs, and Chiang Mai is a hot destination. Sustainable tourism has extended its arms and legs by not only supporting the environment but also the community. Ever since the Tourism Authority of Thailand promoted sustainable roadmaps, the economy of Chiang Mai has prospered.
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Chiang Mai— Northern Thailand’s medley of traditions and natural allure— has been securing its position as the premier ecodestination, after having attracted over 1,200,000 tourists in the past two months according to the Ministry of Tourism and Sports. Now, the city’s landscape is being transformed into a novel scene. This northern gem of Thailand has long been known for its rich cultural heritage, lush landscapes, and deep-rooted commitment to sustainability.
In line with the recent TAT initiative to encourage sustainable tourism, the influx of visitors seeking eco-friendly experiences further solidified Chiang Mai's reputation and somewhat proved the success of this scheme.
TAKE MAE KAMPONG AS THE EPITOME OF SUCCESSFUL ADAPTATION
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Much of the unused remote land was converted into homestays, farm stays, and street food shops. Money is growing off tribal areas. For most villagers, their livelihoods depend on a delicate balance between selling local products, and culinary delights and transforming their homes into cozy havens for tourists seeking an escape from the ordinary. The recent initiative of green tourism has breathed new life into the village, and it's now abuzz with activity anew. This reawakening of tourism is not only boosting the local economy but also fostering a deeper appreciation for the natural wonders that surround the village. “We can finally afford to send our kids to school. Our grandparents can rest, and our neighbourhood is becoming lively. We lend a hand to each other. If I want coffee beans, I support my fellow farmers,” said Ms Suchanart Saisuwan the owner of Kam Por Cafe and Homestay.
The level of support is invaluable. Coffee bean community enterprises around Chiang Mai is rapidly expanding, sowing job opportunity for underprivileged tribes. Sustainability here is a long-term project. Once the seed is planted, the success germinates from this solid foundation. Mr. Kittipob Authaporn the Director of Bank of Agriculture and Agricultural Co-operatives (BAAC), said, “Chiang Mai-based community enterprises’ debt dwindled. In the last field trip, I observed the exponential growth of their farms and production plants.” As of today, the inner city of Chiang Mai prospers. The vibe of onceabandoned districts such as Nimmanhaemin has gained its livelihood, making a killing for the natives. The roads are occupied by taxis and motorcycles, transporting tourists around the city. The life quality of day workers has transcended its past. Mr. Kanokporn Saengwutthichai, a Grab driver in Chiang Mai, said, “Chiang Mai tourism landscape has changed from last year. Every city dweller seems excited as eco-tourism rolls in. Grab drivers grew in numbers year on year from 2021, and the streets of Chiang Mai are occupied by job hunters more than the unemployed now. I have to admit Chiang Mai is becoming richer.”
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The collaborative force of Chiang Mai businesses is a synergy. The net impact of sustainable tourism is in whole driving in a positive direction, financially. According to Mr. Kittipob Authaporn the Director of BAAC, he stated that Chiang Mai triumphed on this green roadmap. From the banking perspective, the number of bank account holders with residency in Chiang Mai is skyrocketing, especially those in the hospitality sector— an increase of 30 percent YoY from 2022. As Chiang Mai steps closer to obtaining its crown as a top ecodestination, it serves as a model for regions worldwide. Its ability to seamlessly weave together ecological conservation, cultural preservation, and tourism growth demonstrated a blueprint that could inspire itself and other provinces to strike the delicate balance between development and environmental stewardship. With Chiang Mai's successful steps, travellers could expect not only a vacation but also a net-zero, community-conscious journey.
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UGLIES OF ECOTOURISM UNMASKED written by Witsawachit Athaporn | 6448066028
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The TAT’s effort to fully establish ecotourism is a revolutionary step, but, still, it needs to view such a transformation more holistically. Environment-wise, the TAT is yet to address a handful of factors interrupting tourism and damaging the reputation of the city. Recently, a user in the Facebook group CM108 shared a picture of burning Doi Luang Chiang Dao, the nation's third-highest mountain peak situated in Chiang Dao District, Chiang Mai Province. The photograph depicted the mountain engulfed in a dense haze of dust.
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“ECO-TOURISM IS A DOUBLE-EDGED SWORD.” MRS WARAPORN SOOKSATIEN
Following the publication of the image, it quickly went viral, sparking a wave of public engagement and opinions. Numerous individuals joined the conversation. Many shared their own experiences, expressing concerns about the health effects of the situation. They reported discomfort such as lung irritation, eye irritation, and throat discomfort, emphasizing the severity of the issue. If the PM2.5 issue persists, such a scheme would rather repel tourists from Thailand. As far as the sustainable initiative is concerned, it neglects also the carbon emission from local transport. Rod-Daeng [Red Truck Taxi], motorcycle taxis, and regional buses still belch black fumes, stifling pedestrians and polluting the air. Chiang Mai tourists and locals do complain bitterly.
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Despite three court cases filed against the Bangkok Mass Transit Authority (BMTA) in 2002 for failing to address the issue of noxious black smoke emissions from the city's bus fleet, Chiang Mai is still dwelling in the same condition in 2023. The further eco-tourism progresses, the fewer net impacts it is making, given that the footprint of one traveller leaves a large carbon footprint as a result of commuting. ICE vehicles need replacement and related authorities are required to take this matter seriously.
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Perhaps, the ‘degree’ is now unmanageable. What’s more aggravating is the backlashes of ecotourism on the community. Pretty images and reputations shown in media are only distortions of reality. While the outer community grows, the inner bound is in a grey area. Townhouse owners who have refurbished their premises into small bed & breakfasts are facing hefty losses in profits. As suggested by the Bank of Thailand, tourists are pushed to the edges of every province. CBDs must expect some degree of downturn.
Mrs Waraporn Sooksatien, the owner of Sila Boutique Hotel, emphasized, “Besides Chiang Mai being Thailand’s premier holiday destination, the coming of sustainable tourism has hindered city hotels, inns, and resorts from growing. Dwellers in more remote districts are sprouting their seeds on Chiang Mai’s lodging, offering inexpensive yet cultural stays while poaching customers from the inner city.” Plus, the dark side cuts ice with the market sellers. As welcoming as the notion of sustainable tourism is, reality fights back. The scheme quickly pushes them out to vicinities and remote districts. Tourists in the CBD markets of Chiang Mai are merely to exist. In the hope of distributing income evenly, inequality just outpaced. Serene markets seem seductive, yet the setback is low sales for city merchants. The coronavirus has hit them hard, and another blow from the TAT initiative is no alleviation for the crisis.
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UNEXPECTED DOWNTURN Ms. Thanasorn Khunruksa, a meatball vendor at Waroros Market, expressed her struggle, “I see Grab drivers prosper, but I see us [vendors] dying. Nobody comes here anymore. Farangs, from what I know, go to Dois [mountain tops] and enjoy farm accommodation.”
One last thing is preserving eco-tourism, albeit the employment trend is not at all propitious. Data released by the Chiang Mai Provincial Labor Office for the year 2022, there were a substantial 12,335 job vacancies within Chiang Mai Province. However, it's noteworthy that only 2,282 of these openings demanded candidates with a bachelor's degree or higher qualifications, accounting for a mere 18% of the total job vacancies. This figure is notably less, approximately seven times fewer, than the number of recent graduates entering the job market.
In the face of the present circumstances, the pursuit of sustainability in Chiang Mai has
evolved into a resolute struggle for survival.
Editor’s note: As a Thai citizen, I believe the future of Chiang Mai is in the bright area. Tourism is recovering; both Asian and Western tourists are flowing into Thailand, creating a balance between ecotourism and main city tourism. Though, PM 2.5 is unarguably a notorious problem in Thailand. Thai authorities must control CO2 emissions, especially those from old buses, and sign contract with Myanmar to avoid transboundary haze pollution.
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BLUEPRINT OF MODERN ECOTOURISM - RAILEY’S BEACH written by Purinat Thanasittichai | 6448054428
Renowned for its spectacular natural beauty, its lush jungle and vibrant coral reef, its clear water and breathtaking limestone cliff, Railey beach stands unparalleled by the other destinations for nature's lover around the globe. Yet, for a place so ravishing, it is disappointing for its undeniably fragility. Railey beach constantly receives numerous spotlights from all around the world, shining their lights on Railey’s majestic unique geological formation and its abundant astounding marine life. This, in turn, led to the constant influx of tourism. With the constant traversing, the beach is now under continuous threat year round. Nonetheless, Railey beach locals and authorities have done an exemplary job balancing the delicate balance of economics needs and nature conservation. One example of such measures are their accommodations. Every resort and bungalow on the beach follows practices that are environmentally conscious. Not only do they rely on renewable energy sources and minimize wastage, but they also encourage their guests and visitors to reduce their environmental footprint. Cr. Canva
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COLLECTIVE COMMITMENT
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The beach commitment to protecting the wildlife is also truly exceptional. This small, but of volume commitment is their “Turtle light practice”. The native sea turtles are moderately sensitive to lights. After the artificial lights were introduced near the shorelines, these sea turtles behaviors have been disrupted. As the native sea turtle gets more vulnerable, the authorities and locals form a new practice by reinstalling the lighting with turtle friendly lighting in every establishment. This remarkable dedication to preserving their environment shows their outstanding commitment toward nature conservation not only domestically, but globally. Balancing recreational activity and ecological education is one of the qualities that the Railey beach locals excel at. Activities such as kayaking through the tranquil mangroves and under the ancient caves provide the thrill to those who seek, while pointing out how fragile nature can be at the same time. Another iconic recreational activity on the beach is Railey’s limestone cliff climbing. Rock climbing establishments on the beach are all followed by the same strict guidelines as the other establishments.
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Not only are they astringent on the equipment used, but also on route preservation and waste management. This is to ensure that the cliffs and the rivers can continue to draw in and educate more visitors in the future. Shifting the focus onto the locals, all guests and visitors voiced in the same manner as they are all impressed, Cr. Canva
-not only on the local’s warmth and welcoming atmosphere, but also on their commitment toward nature preservation practices and initiatives. The Railey community takes immense pride in their commitment toward the environmental initiative. The community actively participates in conservation projects such as reforestation and beach clean ups. Often, tourists are moved by the authenticity of the Railey local, thus, not only do the local preserve the environment, but also enhance the tourism experience for their tourists.
LIFE ISN'T ABOUT GETTING AND HAVING, IT'S ABOUT GIVING AND BEING PURINAT
Waste reduction and recycling are one of the key initiatives in Railey beach. It is such a major key that it can be seen visibly all across the beach. Many establishments adopted eco-friendly practices to help preserve nature. These practices are mostly related to minimizing waste such as minimizing the use of the single use plastics, installing water refilling stations, and encouraging responsible disposal of wastages.
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PERFECT BLEND All of this initiative is what led Railey beach to be ranked the most pristine and inviting jungle and beaches destination in Thailand. Beneath the surface, Railey beach moreover emphasizes the importance of their marine life. Strict guidelines on snorkeling and diving trips to the nearby island are taken highly seriously. Tourists are to educate on the importance of not touching the reefs and littering before leaving the shores to ensure that the marine life remains untouched ,and thriving as vibrant as the underwater world was. All of these perfect blends of qualities found in Railey beach can be nothing but an ideal blueprint for sustainable tourism. It shows that Railey beach is not just a destination, but an archetype to all other destinations to follow and idolize. Travelers not only get to experience the paradise, but also contribute to the conservation of this natural wonder by visiting the beach and supporting its ecotourism initiatives. Railey beach is a shining example of how sustainable tourism can thrive without exploiting their unique pristine nature.
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MAYA’S BAY REDEMPTION STORY written by Purinat Thanasittichai | 6448054428
Standing as a living testament to the power of collective commitment toward ecotourism, the once legendary beauty that was shut down, Maya Bay, has now been revived through a remarkable journey of revival. Maya bay is a place of renowned beauty and serenity located in Phi Phi Leh island. Before becoming a model for nowaday eco-tourism, it was once faced with severe environmental degradation that finally led to its forced shutdown. The major cause of this incident is the heavy influx of uncontrollable tourism, but who is to blame? Maya Bay’s allure is unquestionable. Surrounded by crystal clear waters, limestone cliffs, and a soft powdery beach makes this destination seem as if it is a heaven. As expected, this picturesque location became an international attraction right after the release of “The Beach”. Tourists around the globe then flocked to Maya Bay, seeking to see the same idyllic escape as portrayed in the film. Cr. Canva
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THE PRICE ONE MUST PAY This rapid popularity took a disastrous toll on the bay. The fragile ecosystem was harmed devastatingly as the massive influx of the visitors polluted the ecosystem, damaged the coral reefs, and took marine life. The once picturesque paradise, Maya Bay, was concerned to be forever gone. This catastrophic event ultimately stemmed from unregulated tourism. This unregulated tourism led to an alarming decline of Maya bay’’s ecosystem health where marine life was no longer lives near the bay, coral reefs wilted, and the once soft and powdery shores become filled with litter and pollutants, up until the year 2018, where Thai authorities were forced to made the tough decision. The authority then announced the closure of the bay to all tourists in order to not only rehabilitate the area, but also to devise a sustainable plan for more regulated future visits. This closure was indeed a much-needed pause for the bay to heal and reflect on its previous mistakes.
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The revival story of Maya bay is now serving as a symbol for environmental restoration and preservation of ecotourism’s potential. It now represents the departure from the destructive practices such as taking on mass tourism, to an embrace of a more sustainable travel. This shift in Maya bay is evident in several aspects of ecotourism, as the major one key aspect is the regulation of visitor numbers Cr. Canva
This is considered the most significant change in the beach as it strictly imposed visitor quotas each day. This change is made to ensure not only a more intimate, tranquil experience for the visitors, but also to not overwhelm the beach's delicate ecosystem.
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Maya bay is also no longer allowed an overnight stay as it was previously reported that overnight stay significantly impacted the beach following the unregulated visitors. The bay placed new buoys to prevent boats from dropping anchor on the fragile coral reef, as well as, replacing petrol boats with electric boats. This transformation into a symbol of ecotourism raised Maya Bays as a global example. It demonstrates that what was once destroyed by overcrowding and pollution can be nursed back to health through responsible travel and the commitment to conservation. It serves as a beacon of hope in a world that is filled with mass tourism and environmental degradation. It also serves as a testament to the importance of reevaluating our travel practices and embracing sustainable tourism. While the bay’s transformation is far from perfect, it is a testament to the power of commitment of ecotourism practices to all parties.
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As travelers, we hold the responsibility to support eco-tourism by engaging in sustainable and responsible tourism.
"TRAVEL WITH RESPECT, EMBRACE ECOTOURISM FOR A SUSTAINABLE COEXISTENCE WITH NATURE." One crucial aspect is selecting environmentally friendly sunscreen options that are free from harmful chemicals, as conventional sunscreens can pose a threat to marine life and coral reefs ,or bringing our own reusable bottles helps reduce plastic waste, minimizing the environmental impact of our travel. This joint responsibility ensures that paradises, like Maya Bay, will continue to thrive and passing down the lessons learned can shape a brighter, more sustainable future for other destinations.
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Turquoise Sea, Carbon-free Krabi, Thailand
written by Sakdipong Jittasaiyapan | 6448068228
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Recently, many eco-conscious travelers aimed to promote sustainable tourism in Krabi, harmonizing tourism and environmental conservation. Environmental damage in tourism areas tends to be one of the major issues that Krabi is facing and this has raised concerns about the impact of mass tourism on the communities and the fragile ecosystem There has been a growing number of concerned locals and eco-friendly travelers, both have started working together in order to find a solution to this problem.
The locals, together with the eco-friendly travelers, decided to conduct research on environmental impacts and factors that could have caused damage to the ecosystem by observing the tourists and famous sites around the area. They found out that one of the biggest issues is that the tourists have generated a lot of waste around the area. With a deep commitment to reduce carbon footprint as much as possible, a group of ecofriendly tourists has carefully selected activities and accommodations which could correspond with sustainable tourism. Moreover, businesses in the area have also recognized the trend and are responding to the adjustment with innovative strategies. Many of them are becoming more aware about their waste generation and energy consumption rate. Cr.TAT
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Thung Yi Peng community in Koh Lanta is a role model for sustainable tourism in Krabi as it was promoted as a carbon-free community.
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With its ongoing programs such as mangrove forest restoration, and eco-friendly homestays, it has significantly shown that both travelers and local businesses are dedicated to promoting eco-tourism in Krabi. “We’ve seen a remarkable change in the habits of travelers coming to Krabi,” says Kanya Somchai, a local tour guide. As tourists expect to receive more authentic experiences, they also contribute to conserving the well-being of the surrounding environment. Today, the impact of these efforts made by the locals and the visitors are starting to become noticeable. Eco-friendly activities such as beach clean-up, mangrove restoration, sustainable farming, and plasticfree tours have become more popular in the area.
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The support from both tourists and locals has led to cleaner shores and less waste generation, creating a positive cycle of transformation and engagement. Industry experts expect that sustainable tourism will become the primary method of tourism in Krabi as the movement gains attention. The collaboration of tourism and environmental conservation which is led by dedicated people will not only preserve Krabi’s beauty but it will also ensure that the future generations are more likely to experience the beauty of Krabi in the upcoming years.
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Questioning the effectiveness of Thailand’s green roadmap written by Sakdipong Jittasaiyapan | 6448068228
“The One For The Nature” eco-tourism campaign is coming back again in order to attract tourists from across the world, although there are still many questions from both the tourists and the locals regarding this campaign. In 2020, the campaign “The One For The Nature” was launched in order to promote ecotourism in Thailand. The program is basically a competition between tourists on social media platforms. The objective of the program is to encourage the participants to upload their favorite photos at their favorite destinations in Thailand, in which the top two participants with the most upvotes will receive a prize of a free eco-friendly tour package. The result from the campaign was quite positive according to the number of participants and the report from the Tourism Authority of Thailand. We had a chance to interview one of the eco-tourists who has been interested in this type of tourism in Thailand for many years.
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Tanawat Chinchotleesakul is a college student currently studying at Mahidol University. He mentioned that Thailand is already one of the most popular destinations for tourists across the world. However, the majority of the visitors are still unaware of the ongoing global warming issues. “I believe that the aim for us is to convince those tourists to become more conscious about the impact that they could’ve made” - said Tanawat.
As the program “The One For The Nature” is not a new campaign from the government, This recurring campaign has certainly raised many questions among the locals and the tourists, including Tanawat as he disagreed with this program since he believed that it is ineffective and the funds from the government should be invested on supporting the locals to create a strong eco-tourism industry in the area. “I’d be interested in a free tour package as well, but I don’t think that we should prioritize this method and spend most of our budget on it”.
“THEY MIGHT HAVE TO STEP BACK AND FOCUS ON A LARGER SCALE TO BUILD AN ACTUAL SUSTAINABLE SYSTEM FOR THE GROWING TOURISM INDUSTRY” TANAWAT CHINCHOTLEESAKUL In conclusion, the trend of tourism is growing back after the pandemic, as Thailand’s expected to gain more than 28 million tourists in 2024, the priority for the government is to attract those number of tourists into the ecotourism industry and we should be focusing on creating a strong eco-tourism industry and supporting the locals, tourists, and businesses instead of promoting a seasonal competition to boost a small amount of tourism in specific areas.
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NEW PROVINCE, NEW TOURISM APPROACH: BUENG KAN, THAILAND written by Sakdipong Jittasaiyapan | 6448068228
Bueng Kan, Thailand’s 77th province located in the Northeastern part of the country tends to offer a unique tourism experience to visitors by applying the local and community based tourism approach. As Thailand is now battling with the overcrowding tourist issue in certain famous cities around the country, it tends to create more of a negative impact on those locations and this has become a big concern for the tourism industry since the beauty of certain destinations could be stripped away. The Tourism Authority of Thailand has noticed the problem and came up with the campaign of Unseen Thailand, recommending unpopular places in the country which has its unique character and beauty waiting to be explored by the tourists.
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Bueng Kan is one of the best provinces for tourists to come visit when they’re in Thailand. The trend of tourism in Bueng Kan has significantly grown since its establishment back in 2011, with its unique community based tourism experience. The Bueng Kan living community museum is one of the best examples. The museum was created by Mr. Sutthipong Suriya, a local food-stylist from the area, had an idea to use his own community as an area to display the Thai Isan cultural traditions and lifestyle in certain ways such as visiting the Naga street art, eating authentic Isan food served on Khantok tray, and tailoring a silk dress. The community museum could draw a large number of tourists to visit Bueng Kan and make the tourists actually experience the Thai Isan aesthetics.
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Mr. Suriya also believed that the government could play a big role in attracting the tourists to come visit Bueng Kan and other Northeastern Provinces by promoting seasonal campaigns or partnering up with more of the locals in the area since there are still many wonderful locations awaiting to be restored and open for visitors. However, since Bueng Kan is located quite far away from famous destinations such as Phuket, Chiang Mai, or Bangkok, it could be difficult for tourists to travel to.
According to The Tourism Authority of Thailand, the northeast region of the country tends to be the least-visited part of Thailand, causing the businesses and authorities to doubt the region’s potential in terms of tourism investment. For ecotourists and adventurists going off the beaten track to Bueng Kan is sure to create a unique memorable travel experience as Bueng Kan is offering breathtaking panoramic landscapes surrounding the Mekong River as well as experiencing the authentic Thai Isan culture, Bueng Kan is definitely a destination worth considering for a visit.
Cr. TAT Back in 1996, the Tourism Authority of Thailand, or the TAT created the Thailand Tourism Awards in order to highlight the sustainability tourism effort in the country. The TAT gave out 94 awards to congratulate Thailand’s tourism and the great experience for both tourists and locals. Out of the 94, the top 3 that won the most awards in community-based tourism and eco-tourism were Ban Laem in Nakhon Si Thammarat, Koh Klang in Krabi, and Laem Sak in Krabi.
1 BAN LAEM
THE BEST ECOEXPERIENCE IN THAILAND written by Krittapas Chowchuen | 6448003428 Thailand, a wonderful place that is filled with wonderful locals, is one of the best tourist sites for eco-tourism. Thailand has adopted the concept of eco-tourism for the future of the environment, locals, and tourists. Activities in Thailand are a fascination to explore. Ann Carter is an award-winning journalist with 12 years of experience working in Thailand, America, and China, posted on the website about some of the best ecotourism places in Thailand.
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Ban Laem is a peaceful riverside town just 20 kilometers from the downtown of Nakhon Si Thammarat. Carter mentioned that tourists can find sustainable tourism activities such as preserving the Ban Laem Mangrove Forest. Tourists can help to grow Mangroves, and cloth dying, fermenting rice in mud, do artisanal crafting, and fishing. These activities allow tourists to learn about the sustainable culture of this community. Moreover, they can immerse more into the local culture by doing a homestay with the warm and friendly family of Ban Laem.
2 LAEM SAK Laem Sak, a very unique, quiet, and beautiful fishing village located an hour away drive from Krabi airport. Laem Sak is home to Muslims and Buddhists who live peacefully together as a community. The atmosphere is very traditional and locallike as the villagers enjoy simple and quiet living. This place offers a great ecotourism experience such as growing seaweeds, and plant orchids, Batik cloth dying workshop, and enjoying authentic local foods like Ao Nam shrimp paste.
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3 KOH KLANG Koh Klang is known for its beauty and ecotourism trips. Tourists can travel to this island easily in 10 minutes from Krabi town by taking a long-tail boat from Chao Fah Park Pier. The community here is supported by Anda Krabi Sea Tour Co., and they provide good experienced guides as well as activities inside including the long-tail boat making, morning fishing tour, and Batik cloth production. This place is recommended by many visitors for its excellent experience. As the world is growing more into the ecotourism industry, so is Thailand. Thailand has become more and more conscious of culture and nature and has made a shift in the tourism industry which is recognized to be a win-win for both tourists and locals as they can benefit in many ways through ecotourism right now and in the future.
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Amazing Thailand A Dose of Paradise written by Krittapas Chowchuen | 6448003428 A Dose of Paradise is an eco-tourism 20-day program in Thailand that can take you to all the beautiful places environmentally friendly. Thailand offers a wide range of fun ecofriendly activities for travelers from the forest to the ocean including trekking and hiking, nature and wildlife, horseback riding, cultural artworks and crafts, and many more. Amazing Thailand is the slogan of the Tourism Authority of Thailand or the TAT. As TAT has acknowledged the importance of environment and travel, they have created a travel program called “ A Dose of Paradise '' where they would take tourists through the beauty of Thailand while offering many ecotourism activities so tourists can absorb the culture of Thailand. A Dose of Paradise is a travel program that emphasizes ecotourism and has been promoted by the Thai government and the TAT for over 20 years. In fact, ecotourism now accounts for about 25 percent of the industry. This program will take the visitors to connect with Thai culture and nature as well as to have awareness of the ecological impact of the activity.
Cr. Canva This 20-day program will feature the highlight spot of Southern Thailand. Starting from spending 2 wonderful days in Bangkok the group flight arrives late in the evening. Meet the traveling group over drinks at the guesthouse. The following day tourists will gather at Wat Pho Temple for a guided tour and then board the overnight train South towards the beaches.
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FULL-MOON When the train arrives in Surat Thani in the morning, the group will take a private bus to the pier, then a ferry, a short taxi, and a taxiboat to the private beach. There the group will have fun with the full moon party. Tourists will spend the next 4 days in Koh Phangan
CHIEW LAN LAKE The next 2 days are a Chiew Lan lake trip. The group will take a taxi-boat and a bus to Ratchaprapha Pier. Continue by long-tail boat out to the floating bungalows deep in the wild of Cheow Lan Lake. Enjoy lake living in a floating bungalow with a restaurant, bar, kayaks, floaties, and beverages. There are even nearby hikes to caves and waterfalls. This floating haven is consistently our top-rated destination.
KHAO SOK For day 10, the program will take tourists to Khao Sok National Park. A cool river runs through this small town, the perfect venue for a float on an inner tube with all your friends. Tourists can get drinks and chill as they casually weave through the jungle. Thai cooking classes, hiking, and even night safaris are also nearby optional activities.
KRABI The next 3 days will be in Krabi. Transfer to a ferry to the Phi Phi Islands. Here you will find outstanding scuba-diving, viewpoint hikes, boat trips, snorkeling, and a selection of beach clubs pumping music until the wee hours of the morning.
RAILAY For days 14-17, the guide will take the group from Koh Phi Phi Don directly to Railay Beach in a ferry. Railay is home to two of the most beautiful beaches in the world and is completely surrounded by limestone cliffs, making it only accessible by boat.
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For the last 3 days, upon the morning arrival off the night train, tourists will take a minibus to the guesthouse. They can enjoy the last days in Bangkok exploring, shopping, eating, and drinking in this cosmopolitan city.
The program has more than a thousand participants, hundreds of reviews on the website, and a 4.8-star rating. “Just came back from the 20-day A Dose Of Paradise Thailand trip. This trip was nothing short of amazing. I enjoyed relaxing on the beautiful beaches of Thailand and also hiking to see breathtaking views. Rock climbing on cliffs in Railay got me out of my comfort zone! In addition, I got to bathe an elephant and meet new awesome friends. This was my second trip with Free & Easy and I can't wait to jump into a new experience again. “ Marjolaine, May 2019.
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A Dose of Paradise is considered one of the best choices for eco-tourism programs in Thailand that offers many activities and cultural experiences with hands-on guides who will help them to understand the nature of Thailand. Tourists can trust that this program will be the ecotourism trip that will be remembered in their minds.
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The Coexisting of Thailand tourism and nature written by Krittapas Chowchuen | 6448003428 After the event of COVID-19 pandemic, the world trend of eco-tourism rose exponentially. The country of Smile, Thailand, has emerged with more sustainable travel choices. Pattarawadee Saengmanee, a Thai traveler and a Life writer for Bangkok Post posted her thoughts and experiences on Bangkok Post about Thai eco-tourism in Koh Tao during May 2023. It was the second Spotlight Koh Tao event, a collaboration between the Koh Tao Tourism Association, the Tourism Authority of Thailand, the private sector, and the local communities. The event focuses on highlighting the island as a mesmerizing environmentally-friendly destination and building awareness for tourists.
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However, Pattarawadee mentioned that as she spent time there and learned more about the island, she was concerned that it would not be healthy for the island to have this many tourists, 40,000 travelers per month on average since Thailand opened its border after the pandemic.
She also said that the diving and fishing industry is damaging marine life such as fishing nets that wrap around coral reefs and creating waste in the ocean or the tourists that do not care about the well-being of the marine life. Koh Tao is not a National park. Therefore it is harder to control the tourism activity and conscious mind. She thinks that many methods and implements need to be applied in order for the island to sustain its nature and its beautifulness.
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Visitors must learn how to preserve nature and adjust to the locals' way of life on the island as the island today is filled with leisure businesses. She mentioned that when she was snorkeling, she saw a group of foreign tourists trying to chase a giant green turtle to take pictures and post on social media. The turtle luckily got away but that has left a question on her whether or not traveling is disturbing the island’s nature too much.
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BAMBOO BLISS An Eco-Friendly Retreat written by Tatphol Meteeyonpiriya | 6448033228
A WONDERFUL GETAWAY Tucked away in the beautiful Phi Phi Islands, Zeavola Resort & Spa is like a posh hideout where luxury meets nature love. It's a favorite among smart travelers who want both fancy living and a nod to being kind to the Earth.
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Zeavola Resort & Spa is a special spot where oldschool Thai design meets comfy modern living. They have fancy rooms, from big villas to cozy suites, made with lots of thought to give guests a special experience. They go all out with top-notch services and cool extras, making sure your stay is way beyond just regular luxury. Besides amazing rooms and tasty food, Zeavola has tons of things to do. Whether you're up for exploring nature with guided walks or diving into underwater adventures, the resort has it all. It's perfect for both thrill-seekers and those just wanting a calm time.
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NICE TO NATURE Zeavola takes being green seriously. They do more than just talk about it – they actually do stuff to keep things eco-friendly. They use cool things like solar panels and wind power to cut down on regular energy use. They also work on saving and bringing back natural spaces on their property, making safe spots for plants and animals. Single-use plastic is a big no at Zeavola. They give guests reusable stuff like water bottles and bags. Plus, they do their bit for the beaches by cleaning up plastic regularly, making sure it doesn’t mess up the ocean. Zeavola wants everyone to travel green, so they suggest cool ways like renting bikes instead of using cars. They also teach guests and staff about how to be kind to the ocean and live sustainably. The resort has badges from ecofriendly groups, showing off how much they care about nature. Zeavola isn't just a place to stay; it's a leader, showing how luxury living and taking care of our planet can go hand in hand. It’s a cool way to make holidays fancy while keeping the Earth happy.
“At Zeavola, sustainability isn't just a trend, it's at the core of everything we do. We're proud to be leading the way in eco-conscious hospitality, preserving the beauty of Koh Phi Phi while offering a truly authentic Thai experience.” Lion Imhof, Zeavola General Manager
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Located near Pattaya, Wonderfruit Thailand stands out as a festival that not only celebrates music and arts but is also committed to being environmentally responsible, attracting people who care about sustainability.
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What is Wonderfruit? Wonderfruit is an annual music and arts festival that aims to go beyond entertainment. It provides a platform for conscious living, featuring not only great performances but also workshops, talks, and interactive installations promoting sustainability, wellness, and social responsibility.
The Wonderfruit Experience Wonderfruit attracts a diverse audience with its mix of music, art, and insightful experiences. Attendees enjoy performances by international and local artists, diverse art installations, and engaging workshops and talks that contribute to the festival's dynamic and intellectually stimulating environment.
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One of the standout features of Wonderfruit is its strong commitment to eco-friendly practices. Recognizing the environmental impact of largescale events, the festival has implemented measures to minimize its footprint and promote sustainability: Waste Management: Comprehensive waste management strategies, including recycling programs and waste reduction initiatives, are actively encouraged among festival-goers. Energy Efficiency: Wonderfruit utilizes energyefficient technologies such as solar power and LED lighting to reduce its carbon footprint, aligning with broader environmental goals.
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Local and Sustainable Sourcing: The festival prioritizes locally and sustainably sourced materials, food, and resources, supporting local economies and reducing transportation-related emissions. Ethical Food Buffets: The inclusion of ethical food buffets reflects Wonderfruit's dedication to promoting sustainable and responsibly sourced food options, encouraging mindful dietary choices. Wellness Workshops: The integration of wellness workshops goes beyond environmental concerns, encouraging participants to explore personal well-being and mindfulness.
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Thailand's BCG-Integrated Tourism Model written by Tatphol Meteeyonpiriya | 6448033228
Amidst the global pandemic aftermath, Thailand stands out as a pioneer in sustainable tourism, driven by the innovative Bio-Circular-Green Economy (BCG) Model led by the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT). Going beyond conventional tourism, the BCG Model integrates renewable energy, food, and healthcare for a more sustainable future. At the core of the BCG Model is a commitment to localization, encouraging travelers to explore lesser-known destinations. In Bangkok, Baan Tepa, a Michelin-starred restaurant, exemplifies sustainable practices by using on-site, garden-grown vegetables and supporting nearby farms.
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Chiang Mai's Khlong Mae Ka Nestled along a revitalized canal, serves not only as a hub for cultural exchange but also contributes to the preservation of local traditions, providing a source of income for its residents. Travelers are invited to engage in eco-adventures in the Mae Wang district, fostering support for the Karen Hill tribe community and connecting with centuries-old customs.
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Baan Laem Mangrove Further south, the Baan Laem Mangrove Conservation Area offers a distinctive ecofriendly experience, inviting visitors to explore mangroves, participate in traditional activities, and indulge in a natural "spa" of silky, mineralrich mud. "Tourism Authority of Thailand has developed community-based tourism products with a new economic approach, incorporating the BCG Economy and Happy Model concepts as the core framework for developing the identity of each community's biodiversity and culture. This is linked with Local Wisdom OTOP (One Tambon One Product) and Geographical Indications (GI) products, leveraging tourism to benefit various products in the area. Drawing tourists to discover OTOP and GI products helps distribute income to other sectors of the local economy, increasing tourist spending and creating sustainable economic growth."
Mr. Apichai Chatrakulkit, Deputy Governor for Tourism Authority Thailand
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Cuisine Art The integration of traditional Thai ingredients into the culinary landscape becomes a cornerstone of this sustainable journey. Baan Tepa's commitment to on-site, garden-grown vegetables and its emphasis on seasonality, biodiversity, and historical culinary practices underscore Thailand's dedication to preserving its natural and cultural heritage.
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