Multi-Criteria Decision-Making for Assessing and Evaluating Health and Wellness Tourism Destination Potential Using the 6AsTD Framework: A Case Study of Nakhon Ratchasima Province, Thailand

Phongchai Jittamai, Sovann Toek, Kritsada Phengarree, Kingkan Kongkanjana and Natdanai Chanlawong ()
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Phongchai Jittamai: School of Industrial Engineering, Suranaree University of Technology, Nakhon Ratchasima 30000, Thailand
Sovann Toek: School of Industrial Engineering, Suranaree University of Technology, Nakhon Ratchasima 30000, Thailand
Kritsada Phengarree: Occupational Health and Safety Program, Department of Biological Science, Faculty of Science, Ubon Ratchathani University, Ubon Ratchathani 34190, Thailand
Kingkan Kongkanjana: School of Industrial Engineering, Suranaree University of Technology, Nakhon Ratchasima 30000, Thailand
Natdanai Chanlawong: School of Industrial Engineering, Suranaree University of Technology, Nakhon Ratchasima 30000, Thailand

Sustainability, 2025, vol. 17, issue 11, 1-24

Abstract: Health and wellness tourism is a rapidly expanding segment of the global tourism industry, driven by increasing consumer awareness of well-being and lifestyle enhancement. As the demand for wellness travel grows, destinations are expected to offer high standards of safety, hygiene, rehabilitation, and holistic experiences. This study aims to identify and evaluate the key attributes and determinants for developing health and wellness tourism destinations by applying the 6As Tourism Development framework: Attractions, Accessibility, Amenities, Activities, Available Packages, and Ancillary Services. A multi-criteria decision-making approach, specifically the TOPSIS, was employed to assess destination potential through a case study of Nakhon Ratchasima Province, Thailand. The results indicate that Attractions, Accessibility, and Amenities are the top three priorities for wellness tourists. Sub-criteria such as natural scenery, cultural significance, accessibility for all, safety, and accommodation quality are particularly influential. Three districts in Nakhon Ratchasima were found to exhibit distinct strengths—Pak Chong is best suited for rehabilitative tourism (e.g., aroma and water therapy), aligning with mind and nutrition wellness components; Wang Nam Khiao is ideal for ecotourism and cultural experiences, supporting environmental and nutritional dimensions; while Mueang Nakhon Ratchasima excels in sports tourism, supporting physical and nutritional well-being. The study offers practical insights for policymakers and tourism stakeholders to design sustainable, visitor-centered wellness destinations. The proposed framework supports strategic planning and resource allocation for health-focused tourism development.

Keywords: health and wellness tourism (HWT); multi-criteria decision-making (MCDM); 6As tourism destination (6AsTD); TOPSIS (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: O13 Q Q0 Q2 Q3 Q5 Q56 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2025
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