TAI LUE COMMUNITY IDENTITY AND ITS EXTENSION TO CULTURAL TOURISM AT BAN LUANG NUEA, CHIANG MAI

Abstract

This article explores the results of a research project studying the Tai Lue community identity and its extension to cultural tourism at Ban Luang Nuea, in Chiang Mai. Area surveys, non-participatory observations, and in-depth interviews using semi-structured questionnaires were among the data collection methods used. Folk scholars or local wisdom teachers, as well as community leaders, were major contributors to the research. As everyone in the community participates in tourism management, Tai Lue local wisdom teachers and community leaders understand and are prepared to manage the development of the Tai Lue community’s cultural tourism. Cultural tourism has the potential to grow in the Tai Lue community. This study can be used as a guide to the development of tripartite cultural tourism, in which the government, private sector, and local governments must consider the local community's identity, as well as the preservation of arts and culture, and traditions, in order to achieve sustainable tourism. However, in order to become a successful and live cultural attraction in the future, the relevant authorities must provide assistance.