Cultural Tourism Route of Thai Way of Life along Bangkok Canal

Abstract

         The term Bangkok Canal is used to refer to three adjoining canals which have been central to the lifestyles of Thai people associated with the river for hundreds of years. To understand something of the way of life of Thai people, tourists can experience these canals via a cultural tourism route. This research thus focused on developing an in-depth understanding of places related to Bangkok Canal, their significant values and how these should be interpreted for tourists. Both quantitative and qualitative research methods were used to collect data from the area. In-depth data of historical, physical, economic and socio-cultural aspects were collected from secondary research and by direct observation.

         The study confirms that the Bangkok Canal has the potential to be an important cultural tourism route because it comprises high value cultural attributes such as temples, communities, houses and floating markets. These key elements represent the way of life of people from the past to the present. In order to develop the Bangkok Canal into a cultural tourism route, all of these key characteristics must be preserved.

          The author recommends several tourism routes and activities including proposals for a boat tour, walking tour, bicycle tour and a combined tour, designed according to interpretation principles, to enable visitors to experience the attractions of the Bangkok Canal waterfront area and to enjoy their visit.