Analysis of the attraction of cutural tourism resources for tourists: The case of Kien Giang province

Abstract

Tourism is identified as a key economic sector in Kien Giang Province. Cultural tourism resources are one of two types of resources that contribute to the development of tourism in this province. Cultural tourism resources in Kien Giang province are diverse and unique such as historical and cultural relics, traditional craft villages, cuisine, etc. This study aims to evaluate the attractiveness of cultural assets in Kien Giang Province to tourists based on a brief evidence review of cultural tourism resources (including tangible cultural tourism resources and intangible cultural tourism resources) and tourists’ feedback. The research area is concentrated in famous tourist destinations, attracting a large number of tourists including Phu Quoc Island, Ha Tien City, Rach Gia City, and Kien Hai District. In addition, the main research methods used include secondary literature reviews and field observations. The research results show that Kien Giang is a province with great potential for developing cultural tourism, and its cultural tourism resources are highly attractive; however, currently the exploitation of cultural tourism resources in Kien Giang province for tourism purposes is still limited. Therefore, some recommendations are proposed so that the province can further enhance its appeal to cultural tourism resources and contribute to sustainable economic tourism growth in the future.