This study is qualitative research employing multiple case studies based on Grounded Theory, conducted in 3 areas of Phuket Province: a beach area (Patong Beach), the old town area, and a university area. Key informants (57 individuals) comprised academics, local residents, tourists, and government officials, including representatives from private organizations.
The research presents three models for redesigning health-promoting spaces: the City Lab, walking routes for cultural exploration, and connecting university and community spaces. It also identified six key determinants influencing the promotion of physical activity: motivation, participation, supporting infrastructure, networks and social mechanisms, public relations, and area accessibility.
This research was a collaboration between the Faculty of Public Health and Allied Health Sciences, Praboromarajchanok Institute (Sirindhorn College of Public Health, Trang Province); the Public Policy Institute, Prince of Songkla University; Healthy Space Forum, Bangkok; and Prince of Songkla University, Phuket Campus. It is part of the research project results supported by the Thai Health Promotion Foundation (ThaiHealth) through the “Phuket Model Project for Promoting Healthful Spaces and Physical Activity.”
The findings indicate the potential for integrating physical activity into tourism initiatives by leveraging existing cultural and environmental capital. It emphasizes the importance of strategies tailored to the specific context and needs of each area. The research provides valuable insights for policymakers and stakeholders seeking to create sustainable and engaging physical activity opportunities within a dynamic wellness tourism environment. This project demonstrates that modifying public spaces, such as through a City Lab, Pop-up Park, and linking walking routes with culture, can genuinely promote physical activity.
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Citation
Khunnikom, P., Benjatanawat, S., Thailand, P., Kaewtong, Y., Thailand, P., Viseshasindhu, N., Thailand, P., Haetanurak, P., Thailand, H., Wongluksanapan, T., & Thailand, P. (2025). PICTURING TRANSFORMATION THROUGH WELLNESS TOURISM: A QUALITATIVE EXPLANATORY REPORT OF PHYSICAL ACTIVITY PROJECT IN PHUKET, THAILAND. GeoJournal of Tourism and Geosites. https://doi.org/10.30892/gtg.58135-1420
