The Study of the Potential of Agricultural Tourism Development Guidelines: A Case Study of Khuan Si, Ban Na San, Surat Thani Before the 14th coup

Abstract

The purpose of this research is for the study of the potential areal geology to develop into agricultural tourism. And presenting guidelines for developing into an agricultural tourism destination in the area of Khuan Si, Ban Na San, Surat Thani. This research is qualitative research. Data were collected from 60 key men information of 8 communities, consist of 40 farmers; 5 private sectors; 5 representatives of government agencies and local government organizations; and 10 community leaders. Summarizing information from field notes that are either detailed or descriptive notes. Analysis summary data from discriminant analysis or data grouping, and analysis data that has been analyzed for its components.

The study found that areal geology information has potential to be a high-level of agricultural tourism destination. Due to geographical condition is a diverse agricultural area and absolute. In particular, the famous fruit crops are longkangs, durians, rambutans and mangosteens. Moreover, the research found that the area of Khuan Si is located nearby Surat Thani district; 96 percent of the population are farmer; a well-known worshiped noble monk is Por Than Kong Kaew; good quality of accommodations, restaurants and facilities; including of having a natural water source that can support the agricultural sector throughout the year. For the guidelines of developing into an agricultural tourism destination consist of the preparation stage; by preparing an action plan to promote agricultural tourism, farmer training, development of tourism activities or services, development of tourist attractions, stakeholder development, and the management of capital sources. And for operational stage is to prepare list of agricultural tourism attractions, facilitating, security, marketing and PR.