The Development of Smart Tourism Cities

This article presents the policy and management of smart tourism cities in Hua Hin, Thailand. This study employs qualitative methods, including documentary research and fieldwork surveys conducted in 2024 and 2025, as well as descriptive and content analysis to examine the data. The study found that Thailand faces several problems, such as public awareness of smart cities and a lack of collaboration between the government and the private sector. In addition, to transform Hua Hin into a smart tourism city, the government should expand green spaces within the city and its surrounding areas, establish a local train for transportation between Hua Hin and nearby beach cities, develop an electric train for public transport, provide high-speed internet in public areas, prioritize safety and security, and convert waste into energy by setting up a renewable energy power plant. Furthermore, transforming a city into a smart tourist destination encourages visitor experiences through digital innovation while promoting sustainability and efficiency. Moreover, it boosts economic growth by attracting tech-savvy travelers and supporting local businesses with data-driven solutions. Additionally, smart technologies improve resource management, reduce environmental impact, and ensure long-term resilience for both residents and tourists.