Backing sought for water-based initiatives

The private sector in Nakhon Phanom has proposed an initiative to enhance river tourism along the Mekong while promoting cultural tourism, showcasing the diverse ethnic groups in upper Northeastern Thailand to improve income distribution within local communities.

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Chanyut U-papong, president of the Nakhon Phanom Tourism Business Association and chairman of the Tourism Council of Thailand, Upper Northeastern Region 2, said companies in the area are urging the government to enhance support for water-based tourism.

This initiative includes plans for a scenic 70-kilometre cruise along the Mekong, providing passengers with views of riverside life in both Thailand and Laos.

The proposal highlights the importance of preserving traditional cultural practices within local communities and suggests making stops at various ethnic villages, including those in Nakhon Phanom, which is home to nine distinct ethnic groups.

The goal of this initiative is to create distinctive tourism products, with the private sector ready to offer luxury cruise services, he said.