There are many local communities that focus on sustainable tourism in Thailand but we want to introduce five communities from five provinces recommended on the DASTA website or Designated Areas for Sustainable Tourism [Public Organization]. Some communities are recipients of Thailand Tourism Awards and the One Tambon One Product (OTOP) Nawatvithi model, which is a type of tourism that brings travelers to experience local community lifestyle and culture – resulting in the generation of income for the community.
1. Ban Soen Nuea community of Khon Kaen province
Ban Soen Nuea community is located in Phu Pha Man district, with Phu Pha Man National Park as its backdrop. It stands out with limestone mountains marked by curtain-shaped cliffs. Within the park are caves, stalagmites, stalactites, waterfalls and forests. The local community is made up of the Tai Phu people, whose culture and traditions are preserved. Examples are Khit Tai Phu cloth weaving and the 100-year-old Tai Phu wooden buildings called “Huean Thai Phu”.
Highlights: Boat trip to Phu Pha Man, Wat Chaliang Yai and handicraft shops
Transportation: The community is 123 kilometers from Khon Kaen Airport. You can rent a car or use public bus services between Khon Kaen to Mueang Loei.
Facebook: OTOP Nawatwithi Tourism Village Ban Soen Nuea
2. Ban Pha Chan community of Ubon Ratchathani province
Have you been to the “Grand Canyon of the Mekong River” called Sam Phan Bok? This seasonal attraction is the biggest rock reef in the river; and is created by sandstone eroded by water streams every rainy season. Visitors are recommended to go to the Ban Pha Chan community situated by the Mekong River as it retains its traditional lifestyle and allows you to admire nature. Other activities include fishing on a boat like local fishermen, and experiencing local culture of people living by the Thailand-Laos border along the Mekong River.
