The Designated Areas for Sustainable Tourism Administration also plans to propose Hua Hin, Cha-am and its vicinity for approval as a designated area soon. It will cover around 1,000km2; starting from Lame Phak Bia, Buek Tian, Cha-am in Phetchaburi to Hua Hin and Pran Buri River mouth in Prachuap Khiri Khan.
Nalikatibhag takes some time off to discuss Dasta's concept and future plans and why sustainability is not a cliche but a necessity.
Why does Dasta want to promote the already well-known Hua Hin and Cha-am as a new designated area?
Hua Hin has grown very rapidly, with the number of tourists who now visit Hua Hin and Cha-am around 26-30 times higher than their population. The rapid growth of mass tourists has lead to environmental issues such as polluted water, a garbage problem and traffic jams. The problems are now out of hand for local authorities and so they are asking us for help.
The coastal line of Cha-am and Hua Hin will be promoted as a high-end destination, while the area above Cha-am and below Hua Hin beaches to the mouth of Pran Buri River will be promoted as a family destination. The inland areas located on the other side of Phetchakasem Road will be promoted as the agro and eco-tourism destinations.
Full story: Bangkok Post
Thought: Don't think all of those Benzes and SUVs that swamp the town every weekend are very sustainable.
