Developing the Potential of Homestay Tourism Communities Involves Leveraging Local Wisdom and Enhancing Service Skills for Effective Tourism Management in Ban Dong Noi, Phra That Sub-District, Na Dun District, Maha Sarakham Province

Abstract

This research aimed to 1) examine the local and tourism management context of the Ban Dong Noi Homestay Tourism Community in Phra That Sub-district, Na Dun District, Maha Sarakham Province 2) explore the tourism development needs of the community and 3) enhance the community’s tourism management capacity through the development of local wisdom–based food practices and service skills. This study employed a participatory research and development approach. The participants consisted of 50 members of the Ban Dong Noi Homestay Tourism Community Group. Data were collected using semi-structured interviews and analyzed qualitatively. The findings revealed that Ban Dong Noi is an innovative OTOP tourism community that effectively utilizes local cultural heritage and natural resources. The villagers maintain a simple way of life based on the Sufficiency Economy Philosophy. The community is located near significant historical and cultural sites, including the ancient Nakhon Champa Sri civilization and Phra Boromthat (stupa) Na Dun. It also offers diverse tourism activities, such as ancestor worship rituals, folk art performances, and community-based product learning centers. Regarding tourism development needs, the community expressed strong demand for capacity building in two key areas: the preparation of traditional foods and local desserts for welcoming tourists, and the enhancement of service skills to create positive first impressions. The study concludes that strengthening local food-based tourism offerings and improving service skills are critical factors in enhancing the tourism management potential of community-based homestay tourism.