Community-based tourism (CBT) is emerging as a powerful tool for sustainable development, particularly in destinations like Phuket. By fostering connections between travelers and authentic local experiences, CBT not only empowers communities but also preserves cultural heritage and reduces environmental impact. This article delves into the potential of CBT in Phuket, highlighting insights from the 2024 ITOP Forum and the initiatives of Local Alike, a social enterprise dedicated to promoting sustainable tourism.
The ITOP Forum showcased the powerful role CBT plays in sustainable development. Co-organized by Local Alike, the event illustrated how CBT can uplift local economies while maintaining cultural integrity and minimizing ecological footprints. Founded by Somsak Boonkam, Local Alike champions sustainable travel by linking tourists with authentic experiences, such as traditional crafts, cooking classes, and cultural tours.
Phuket’s community-based tourism initiatives, particularly its partnership with Local Alike, offer travelers a responsible means to engage with the island’s rich history, cuisine, and culture. By supporting local businesses and participating in community-driven activities, tourists can directly contribute to Phuket’s sustainable development.
During the ITOP Forum, we participated in a community-based tourism tour of Phuket Old Town, guided by the Phuket Young Ambassadors and Local Alike. This immersive experience highlighted how tourism can bolster local communities and protect cultural heritage.
Recognized as a UNESCO City of Gastronomy, Phuket features a rich variety of culinary traditions that have passed down through generations. CBT initiatives integrate these culinary experiences, enabling travelers to engage with local communities and learn about their unique foodways and the Peranakan lifestyle.
Our tour began with a lunch at Blue Elephant, a renowned restaurant housed in the historic Governor House. The restaurant’s commitment to using local ingredients and preserving traditional culinary practices aligns with the principles of CBT.
Following our lunch, we explored the Old Town, admiring its Sino-European architecture and visiting beautifully restored local homes, including Baan 92 and the iconic Woo Gallery. These homes offered a glimpse into the island’s past, showcasing artifacts, antique furniture, and the stories that reflect Phuket’s multicultural heritage.
A highlight of our tour was a hands-on Hokkien noodle-making workshop (Best Hokkien Mee in Phuket,) rooted in the island’s Chinese heritage. After this culinary experience, we savored Angku cakes (red turtle cakes) and Ahpong, light, crispy coconut crepes, emblematic of Phuket’s culinary traditions. These desserts, especially Angku cakes, hold significant cultural value, symbolizing longevity and prosperity in Chinese customs.
We then visited the iconic Woo Gallery, housed in a meticulously restored Sino-Portuguese building, which provided further insight into Phuket’s heritage. This gallery offers a window into the past, preserving the heritage of Phuket through family heirlooms, antique furniture, and historic memorabilia. We were given an intimate tour of the house’s rooms, which have been meticulously restored to their former glory, allowing visitors to feel like they’ve stepped back in time. The gallery is not only a tribute to the past but also a testament to how heritage can be preserved and shared through tourism.
A particularly moving moment of the day was meeting a blind local musician who played the Guzheng, a traditional Chinese string instrument. Her hauntingly beautiful performance underscored the profound connections between music, culture, and community. As we listened, we enjoyed traditional sweet desserts offered as symbolic tokens of community and heritage.
This tour deepened our appreciation for Phuket’s history and demonstrated the tangible impact of CBT. Each experience, from cooking traditional dishes to visiting restored historical homes, showcased how community-based tourism can empower local economies while preserving cultural traditions. Beyond the economic benefits, CBT promotes cultural preservation and environmental sustainability by encouraging mindful, responsible travel.
For Local Alike, the future of tourism lies in adhering to Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles that align travel with ethical practices. Boonkam emphasized that sustainability is not a trend but a necessity. Through CBT, Local Alike envisions a tourism model that fosters cultural exchange, empowers communities, and minimizes environmental damage—a vision that aligns with the global movement towards sustainable travel.
The activities on September 26th exemplified how tourism can transcend mere sightseeing to become a catalyst for positive social change. It’s no longer just about visiting new places; it’s about understanding local contexts, supporting small businesses, and making environmentally conscious decisions. Whether through cooking traditional dishes, participating in craft workshops, or strolling through historic streets, CBT encourages travelers to positively impact the destinations they explore.
Phuket’s community-based tourism initiatives, particularly its partnership with Local Alike, present a responsible approach to engaging with the island’s rich cultural and historical tapestry while ensuring that the benefits of tourism are shared with local communities. By embracing CBT, we pave the way for more meaningful travel experiences that benefit both travelers and the communities they visit.
As a UNESCO City of Gastronomy, Phuket has a unique opportunity to leverage its culinary heritage to promote sustainable tourism. By focusing on community-based initiatives and emphasizing the importance of preserving traditional foodways, Phuket can create authentic and meaningful travel experiences for visitors.
Feel free to share your experiences with community-based tourism or any memorable moments you’ve had while exploring local cultures! Your insights and stories can inspire others to engage in meaningful travel. Drop your thoughts in the comments below!
