The Health Tourism Promotion Guidelines for Cultivating the Awareness of Tourism Community in Thung Khru District, Bangkok

Abstract

This study aims to 1) examine the needs of mass tourists regarding health tourism in Thung Khru District, Bangkok; 2) develop a one-day health tourism route integrating Augmented Reality (AR) technology alongside the development of youth local guides; and 3) synthesize a process for fostering health tourism awareness through area-based tourism activities. A mixed-methods approach was employed. Quantitative data were collected from 100 Thai and international tourists using questionnaires, while qualitative data were obtained through in-depth interviews with key stakeholders. This was complemented by a research and development process to design prototype routes and activities. The findings indicate that the area-based health tourism promotion framework comprises three key components: 1) community capital management and tourism potential development aligned with health tourism; 2) the design of tourism experiences using AR technology through a route linking 17 local attractions, together with youth local guide development; and 3) a three-phase awareness-building process consisting of awareness creation, value formation, and action-oriented engagement. Evaluation results reveal that the developed activities effectively enhance well-being awareness, promote responsible tourism practices, and strengthen the health-oriented image of the community in a tangible manner.