Abstract:
This thesis can be divided into 2 parts: (1) the study of recreational value of Thai Island and Sea Natural History museum, and (2) tourists satisfaction analysis. The recreational value of Thai Island and Sea Natural History Museum is estimated by Zonal Travel Cost Method using data collected from museums visitation request forms during October 1, 2011 to September 30, 2012. The result shows that museums recreational value was at 54,841,850 baht per year or 1,135.16 baht per visit in 2011.The budget for museum operation and maintenance in 2011 was at 6,034,718 baht, or 48,807,132 baht less than the recreational value. The museum should take into account its high recreational value in proposing the annual budget through various development projects which encourage tourists learning and conservation concern. For the evaluation of tourists satisfaction, the results show that, on average, museum visitors have high satisfaction level. The average satisfaction score is 4.22. The highest rated aspects are natural beauty, cleanliness, and information displayed in the museum. The museum should allocate its budget to maintain and develop these aspects. To conclude, the recreational value of museum should be considered in budget proposing process. Furthermore, the development of museum should be planned taking into account the results from tourists satisfaction survey.