[wowpow]

http://www.bangkokpost.com/en/011205_Ho ... hori51.php[url]

"Krabi has its unique art, culture and the way local people lead their life to offer visitors, not just beaches," said the group's president Prayong Hirunyawanich, who believes that before promoting any new attraction, it is important to get the local people to participate and be part of its development right from the start.

"We talked to local businesses, organisations as well as community leaders for their opinion," said Tarat Tanitnont, an advisor to the board of Krabi Tourism Association.

The association wants to hear what local communities want to promote and then educate them how to conserve and manage their resources for lasting gain.

Tarat has been in the hotel business 30 years and is one of the early pioneers of tourism in Krabi. To him, caution is the watch word because he doesn't want to repeat mistakes made elsewhere.

"We have learned from the experience of others, particularly places like Phi Phi Island which developed rapidly as its popularity rose, but is now virtually reeling under its own weight. When a place becomes popular outsiders start acquiring land and build resorts. Their sole concern is profit, with little regard for natural resources, environment....."

THe full article is interesting and well illustrated. A nice way to avoid the excesses of mass tourism.[/url]