Identification of tourist's image factors for the tourism large scale projects planning: a case study of Bangnamphung Floating Market, Samut Prakan Province, Thailand

Floating markets are uniquely Thai and tourists from all over the world come for this buzzing shopping experience. This quantitative research project focused on the tourists perceptions of the Bangnamphung floating market just outside of Bangkok, Thailand. The study focused on tourist attractions, tourist activities, products sold at the market, floating market accessibilities, facilities and services as well as the participation of the local community in the floating market. The main purpose for going to the floating market was shopping for reasonable local products while supporting the local economy. The tourist attractions were of secondary nature with a focus on preserving local culture and heritage. Accessibility and parking were the key decisive factors for choosing this particular market. This research has significant implication for tourism development and project management practices. It contributes to enhance discussions about large scale participatory tourism project management in the global context.