Eco-Tourism Thailand is fortunate in its prime location
for tourism in terms of such natural attractions as beaches
and mountains, cultural and historical sites which reflect the
glories of Thai civilization, and a sophisticated infrastructure,
allowing visitors easy access to all these treasures.
 The
government's policy on tourism for the past years has been gearing
towards more and more sustainable tourism development with emphasis
on community participation, safety of tourists and non-exploitation.
The term “eco-tourism” has been widely used to describe a form
of tourism in natural areas that is based on the knowledge about
and responsibility towards the ecological system of the area.
At present, the number of real eco-tourism visitors is still
minimal. Mostly, those tourists are included in other types
of tourism such as nature-based tourism, agro-tourism, cultural
and historical tourism and health tourism. Most of such tourism
areas are in natural parks and specific historical-cultural
areas.
The national parks system in Thailand was previously cited its
growing importance to the eco-tourism industry. With most parks
easily accessible by road, there exists excellent potential
to expand the number of visitors who use them.
In the case of the Maekong River, the nature-based tourism potential
particularly applies to Northeast Thailand, an area that the
TAT has identified as a priority for tourism development. The
national parks in close proximity to the Mekong River include
sites of prehistoric, archaeological and natural significance.
As the Mekong region increases in its exposure and popularity,
these parks will experience an increased number of visitors
in search of quality eco-tours.
 One
marine eco-tourism, the last 30 years saw the country establishing
18 marine national parks as well as more than 70 terrestrial
ones. Many of the activities available on and around Thailand's
crystal seas are environmentally sound. Sea canoeing, windsurfing
biking, walking, swimming, snorkeling and sailing are, when
practiced as they should be, perfectly respectful of nature.
Diving, the most popular water sport in Thailand, can be just
as green.
Thailand has a great opportunity to promote eco-tourism, especially
when compared to other countries in the Asia region. The kingdom
enjoys such benefits as easy access, sophisticated infrastructure
and myriad tourist attractions and activities. |
