Development of Community-based Tourism Based on the Grassroots Economy Concept

Abstract

Community-based tourism is an important issue at the national and international levels. In addition, the community-based tourism situation has experienced an increase in growth rate. This trend makes public agencies and tourism network parties be aware of the concept of community-based tourism and mutually develop such tourism in Thailand to reach international standard which the development mainly focuses on local people to participate in tourism activities in their community. This article is intended to study community-based tourism issues and grassroots economy concept based on review of related literature and research. It aims to analyze relationships between community based tourism and grassroots economy in which tourism is a tool for sustainable community development through the principle of grassroots economy. This includes analyzing a strategic plan on sustainable community-based tourism to strengthen competency of human resource in the community. This is on the basis of their potential in community-based tourism management and self-reliance based on sufficiency. Also, it aims to add value of resources in tourist spots on the basis of local identity. Not only this, it focuses on the creation of happiness between local people and tourist. Importantly, residents in the community are encouraged and supported in terms of fair income distribution from community-based tourism. This helps reduce social inequality and truly promote sustainability in the community.