The vibrant island of Phuket is buzzing with excitement as it officially launches the community tourism project "Tao Bang Kayak" under the "Phuket Creative City" initiative. This event, which kicked off at 9:00 AM on March 1, 2025, at Ton Pho Community by the Bang Yai Canal, offers locals and tourists alike the chance to explore the ecological wonders of the mangroves along with the local way of life.
The opening ceremony was graced by the presence of Phuket Governor, Sophon Suwanrat, alongside Saroj Ankanapilas, Mayor of Phuket City, and many local government officials and community members. Mayor Saroj expressed the project’s significance, emphasizing community tourism as instrumental for sustainable economic development and environmental preservation. He stated, “Tao Bang is not just about kayaking; it’s about sharing and preserving our traditional fishing lifestyle.”
The kayaking tour allows visitors to paddle through the serene waters of Bang Yai, witnessing the stunning mangrove forests, and venturing to Koh Phi canal to truly engage with the culture and wisdom of the local communities. The initiative is set to attract eco-tourism enthusiasts, eager to experience the natural beauty and cultural richness of Phuket.
This project also includes the establishment of community markets where local residents can sell their products, enhancing income opportunities for the community. The initial market event is scheduled for two days from March 1 to 2, aiming to eventually hold it weekly on weekends to facilitate local commerce.
Governor Sophon explained, “Community tourism plays a key role not just economically but also socially, by empowering communities to manage their tourism resources sustainably.” He highlighted the importance of community participation, ensuring locals remain at the heart of tourism efforts.
Launching initiatives like the Tao Bang kayaking tour is seen as pivotal to retaining cultural heritage and biodiversity. Participants can enjoy nature activities, which also aim to raise awareness about environmental conservation through engaging experiences.
Overall, this exciting endeavor is expected to put Phuket’s community tourism on the map, enticing both locals and international visitors to explore the unique offerings of the island.