Trekking among the hill tribes of Northern Thailand : analyzing an alternative tourism segment
Date
1991
Authors
Harron, Sylvia Grace
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Abstract
Over the last couple of decades, tourism has become a rapidly growing and multifaceted industry. The main model for tourism development in Thailand. as in most countries in Southeast Asia, is that of high price resort or enclave-type developments. "Alternative tourism" is a term in the literature which has been applied to tourism that is different from this model. This study reviews the emergence of alternative tourism within the tourism literature. It investigates the characteristics of one group of "alternative tourists," those who go hill tribe trekking in northern Thailand. In particular, it concentrates on defining this group in terms of their sociodemographic profile as well as their motivations and satisfactions. This study presents the results of personal interviews conducted with 208 respondents and is supported by information gathered through field work and participant observation. This includes 35 interviews with non-participants. The respondents comprise a specialized segment of tourists in Thailand, particularly in terms of nationality, length of stay, and daily expenditures. In terms of specific motivations for trekking, visiting the hill tribes and seeing the scenery of northern Thailand are important. However, highlights of the trek are more likely to be of a recreational and social nature. The findings indicate the respondents have a general awareness of the potential impacts of tourism on the hill tribes and environment. A summary of possible "alternatives" to the prevalent model of hill tribe trekking is provided.