CULTURAL INTEGRATION FOR PROMOTING THE GASTRONOMY TOURISM IN NAKHON PHANOM PROVINNCE

Abstract

            This study aimed to 1) examine the concept of gastronomy in Thailand, with a specific focus on Nakhon Phanom Province, and 2) propose strategic guidelines for promoting gastronomy tourism in the region. The findings indicated that the local culinary identity of Nakhon Phanom Province served as a significant component of soft power in tourism promotion, as endorsed by the government. Culinary experiences played a crucial role in tourism, as visitors often sought to engage with local food culture at their destinations. Nakhon Phanom Province is widely recognized for its religious tourism, particularly among devotees participating in "Sai Mu," a form of spiritual travel to pay homage to sacred sites. In addition to religious tourism, gastronomy tourism presented an alternative form of cultural engagement, given the province’s diverse ethnic composition. The local cuisine reflected a fusion of culinary traditions from various ethnic communities, resulting in a distinct gastronomic identity unique to Nakhon Phanom. Several key factors influenced the development of food tourism in the province, including the geographical distribution of local restaurants, food quality, service personnel, dining infrastructure, and the overall tourism experience. Additionally, awareness and efforts to preserve the environment, society, and cultural heritage were integral to sustainable food tourism. The study proposed four strategic dimensions for enhancing gastronomy tourism in Nakhon Phanom Province: 1) strengthening local food identity, 2) developing gastronomic activities, 3) leveraging social media for promotion, and 4) fostering partnerships with relevant stakeholders. These guidelines served as a framework for policymakers and tourism authorities to integrate food tourism into regional development plans, thereby stimulating the local economy while complementing existing tourism sectors.