The tourism sector is now one of the key generators for income in Thailand. Over the years, the growth of tourism in Thailand was mainly focused in Bangkok. However, today many other regions in Thailand are also making use of its resources such as their pristine beaches and breathtaking landscapes to attract tourists from all over the world. Tourism therefore has taken captive in various parts of Thailand.
Are there any changes to Thailand due to this growth in tourism?
When dealing with tourism there are definitely some impacts on the destination itself, be it good or bad. These impacts can be categorized into three main groups namely the Socio-cultural, Environmental as well as Economic impact.
First let us look at some of the threats tourism as post to the Socio-cultural factor in Mae Hong Son. One of the major concerns when it comes to tourism is the loss or change of indigenous identity and values, especially so in cities which have a diversity of rich cultures. Each year, tourists flock to this city to experience the authentic culture of the hill tribes in the various districts of Mae Hong Son. In many cases, the local people made changes to their lifestyle and values in order to adapt to the demands of tourist.
The whole structure of the Kayan villages is planned as a “tourist setting”. Each of thevillages itself has become a “tourist space” a kind of living museum (MacCannell 1989:100-102).
One perfect illustration is the Padaung tribe or commonly referred to as “Long-neck” tribes. As increasing curious tourists from all over to world travel to Mae Hong Son to look at this indigenous tribe, the Padaung people are changing their focus of occupation which was previously agriculture and handicrafts towards tourism. This encountered is feared by many authorities as it will gradually change the Kayan’s way of life. In order to adapt to the demands of these tourists and to satisfy their curiosity, the Padaung women will have to put on brass rings. Entrance fee are charged for the local and international tourists when they visit the Padaung tribe. This then leads to commodification and staged authenticity as they are being ‘sold’ as tourism products to attract the crowds. Hence I believe that tourism has been a culprit in commodifying the rich cultures and traditions of the Karen tribe.
Another negative impact of tourism in Mae Hong Son is the physical influences from the tourists causing stress towards the locals. Locals feel that tourism industry offers a better opportunity to earn more and faster cash. Hence, increasing young people are losing interest in learning traditional practices such as making handicrafts and farming as they are more attracted to the 'easier life’ and prefer to enroll and be trained as cultural dancers, singers and performers. This will gradually lead to a loss in traditions and cultures as the generations to come will not have knowledge of these traditions.
Even though tourism poses threats to the community, it offers some positive impacts at the same time. One of such positive impact is the increase in mutual understanding between people and culture. Tourism serves as a platform for tourist to experience other cultures and thus helps to reduce prejudice. Another positive impact is that it encourages civic involvement and pride amongst the locals. It helps to raise wariness of the financial value of the rich culture they possess and this stimulating pride in local culture. Hence, tourism allows local crafts, foods, cultural exposition and personalities to be kept alive while raising revenue for the community’s economy.
Next let’s look into some of the environmental impacts tourism has on Mae Hong Son. Tourism plays a major role in the degradation of the environment. One particular issue is the cutting of bamboos in order to make rafts for raft expeditions. There has been an over-exploitation of bamboo thickets due to fact that a raft made of bamboo can be used for only a limited time. Hence, in recent years the villagers have witnessed a decrease in the bamboo forest. This shows us how natural resources are sacrificed for tourism purposes.
Do you think there are any positive impacts on the environment?
You may be surprise to find out that there is actually a positive impact tourism has on the environment. Tourism also helps to promote environmental awareness amongst the tourists as well as locals. The abundance of wildlife as well as lush green forests in Mae Hong Son enables tourists to enjoy and at the same time study the environment.
Last but not least, the economic impacts of tourism. No doubt tourism has definitely brought about positive economic impact as it helps to boost the country’s economy by earning more foreign revenue. In Mae Hong Son, tourism plays a major role in generating income for the city. Even the locals in the hill tribes are benefiting from the economic impact as the selling of local goods such as handicrafts has enabled them to earn some income.
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