Development of ethnic tourism in poverty and drug deduction (the case study of Chiangrai Province, Thailand)

Abstract

Despite significant economic growth in Thailand, in northern Thailand in particular, a growing number of indigenous communities have been turning to tourism as an alternative to expanding their commercial agriculture. However, in recent years, tourism resources have begun to deteriorate both culturally and environmentally in addition to problem of poverty. Thus, a growing gap between rich and poor, inadequate attention to the special needs of ethnic minorities, gender inequities and lack of access to basic health and education are significant problems. This paper presents the ethnic minorities’ context and their demands on tourism development as well as the key players’ roles and interests effecting on ethnic tourism promotion. The paper concluded with key issues for an achievement of creative ethnic tourism promotion in Chiang Rai Province.