Community-Based Tourism Learning Visit - Takhina Tia Community

Chonburi, Thailand, 7 March 2026 – The PATA Thailand Bangkok University Student Chapter had an opportunity to visit Takhian Tia Community for a field trip filled with culture and sustainability. 

Event Description 

Members of the PATA Thailand Bangkok University Student Chapter had an opportunity to visit in a study field trip organised for third-year students in the International Tourism and Hospitality Management (ITHM) programme at Bangkok University International. The field trip aimed to provide students with practical exposure to community-based tourism, local hospitality practices, and experiential tourism activities through direct observation and participation. 

The main study visit took place at Takhien Tia Community in Chonburi Province, a destination known for its community-based tourism initiatives. During the visit, participants engaged in a hands-on cultural activity involving natural flower pressing on tote bags. In this activity, participants arranged fresh flowers and leaves on fabric and used wooden sticks to gently pound the materials, allowing the natural pigments from the plants to transfer onto the fabric. This experience demonstrated how local communities incorporate natural resources and traditional techniques into creative tourism activities that enhance visitor engagement. 

Following the activity, participants were guided through the community’s agricultural area, where various fruits, herbs, and local plants are cultivated. This part of the visit provided insights into the community’s agricultural practices and highlighted how local produce and natural resources support both daily life and tourism experiences. 

The programme continued with a cooking activity in the community kitchen area. Participants learned how to prepare a traditional Thai pastry under the guidance of local community members. This hands-on culinary experience allowed students to observe how food-related activities are integrated into tourism programmes, providing visitors with authentic cultural experiences while supporting local knowledge and traditions. 

After the cooking session, participants enjoyed a traditional Thai meal prepared by the community. This provided further insight into local hospitality practices and demonstrated how community-based tourism can generate economic benefits through food services and visitor activities. 

In the afternoon, the group visited a café located near Bangsaen Beach, where students observed hospitality operations in a coastal tourism setting. The visit allowed participants to analyse aspects such as café management, customer service, and the role of hospitality businesses in serving both local visitors and tourists in a beach destination. 

Field trip Documentation 

https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1BGdvENLEa/?mibextid=wwXIfr 

https://www.instagram.com/p/DV57rIYEQT0/?igsh=MTB1a2lkcWltcjdsYw== 

https://www.linkedin.com/posts/pata-thailand-bangkok-university-student-chapter-283b60330_patathailandbangkokuniversitystudentchapter-activity-7438917120618512385-WtmB?utm_mediu m=ios_app&rcm=ACoAADKJW2QBORUExlkThSxRiH47KhEOwrg7SeU&utm_source=social sharesend&utm_campaign=copy_link

PATA Student Chapter Participation 

Members of the PATA Thailand Bangkok University Student Chapter actively participated in the field study activities alongside ITHM students. Through engagement in the cultural workshops, agricultural tour, and culinary experience, chapter members gained valuable insights into how community-based tourism creates interactive and meaningful visitor experiences.

The participation also allowed members to observe how collaboration between local communities and tourism stakeholders contributes to sustainable tourism development and local economic support. 

Conclusion 

The field study provided valuable experiential learning opportunities for students and participating members of the PATA Thailand Bangkok University Student Chapter. Through hands-on activities and direct interaction with the local community, participants gained a deeper understanding of community-based tourism, cultural experience design, and hospitality management. 

The experience highlighted the importance of authenticity, sustainability, and local participation in developing successful tourism destinations. Overall, the field trip strengthened students’ understanding of tourism operations while encouraging greater appreciation for community-driven tourism initiatives. 

Student Chapter Social Media 

https://bit.ly/PATABUSC_Facebook 

https://bit.ly/PATABUSC_Instagram 

https://bit.ly/PATABUSC_Youtube 

https://bit.ly/PATABUSC_LinkedIn 

For More Information 

Gyung Maw Seng (President of PATA Thailand Bangkok University Student Chapter)

Email: gyungmaw.seng@bumail.net