Community-Based Cultural Tourism Development Strategies: A Case Study of Don Wai Floating Market, Sampran District, Nakhon Pathom Province

Abstract

        This research aims to: 1) study the current conditions of community-based cultural tourism at Don Wai Floating Market, Nakhon Pathom Province; 2) analyze the key factors influencing the development of community-based cultural tourism; and 3) formulate strategic approaches for the sustainable development of community-based cultural tourism at Don Wai Floating Market, Sam Phran District, Nakhon Pathom Province. The study adopts a qualitative research approach focusing on the exploration of local resources, community contexts, and levels of participation related to tourism. Purposive sampling was employed to select key informants, consisting of 20 individuals for in-depth interviews and 10 participants for focus group discussions, all of whom play significant roles in the cultural tourism management of the Don Wai community. The findings reveal that Don Wai Floating Market possesses unique cultural resources and strong potential to be developed into a sustainable cultural tourism destination. However, there remains a lack of community capacity building and active local participation. Therefore, the study proposes three strategic recommendations: 1) strategies for enhancing community capacity, 2) financial and external support strategies, and 3) strategies for developing the market as a community-based learning center. These strategies aim to promote genuine community participation and effective collaboration with government agencies.