Thai Science, Technology and Health Review

DIGITAL WELLNESS TOURISM: ENHANCING WELL-BEING ON THE SUNSHINE COAST THROUGH TECHNOLOGY-NATURE INTEGRATION

Madura Thivanka PATHIRANA — 2025-09-20

This study examines the intersection of wellness tourism and digital technologies on the Sunshine Coast, Queensland, Australia, investigating how technology enhances well-being in nature-based tourism settings. Focusing on the integration of wearables, health apps, and personalized data, the research investigates the impact on tourist engagement, satisfaction, and ethical considerations surrounding health data privacy. Qualitative methods, including interviews with tourists, wellness operators, and health specialists, reveal that personalized experiences driven by real-time data can significantly improve engagement and motivation in wellness activities. However, concerns about data security and privacy, as well as the need for a "digital detox," must be addressed. The study provides recommendations for wellness tourism operators on how to integrate digital tools while maintaining ethical data handling practices. Ultimately, the research contributes to a deeper understanding of how technology can enhance nature-based wellness tourism, promoting sustainable and responsible practices that enhance well-being and customer satisfaction. This study is crucial for those seeking to enhance the quality of tourism services through the integration of new technologies and protective measures against health data misuse.

THE RISE OF WELLNESS TOURISM: EXPLORING THE INTERSECTION OF FOOD, HEALTH, AND TRAVEL

Sutas JAEPHO — 2025-09-22

This paper examines the burgeoning field of wellness tourism, with a focus on the intersection of food, health, and travel. As individuals increasingly prioritize holistic well-being, wellness tourism has emerged as a significant segment of the global travel industry. This article explores the motivations driving this trend, including the desire for health enhancement, social interaction, cultural appreciation, and authentic experiences. The analysis encompasses key definitions, emerging trends, and innovations in food-related wellness tourism. Furthermore, the study addresses critical challenges and debates surrounding sustainability, accessibility, cultural authenticity, and market perceptions. By emphasizing community involvement, stakeholder collaboration, and sustainable practices, promoting responsible growth is crucial. The findings support the use of strategies to harness the power of food-related wellness tourism, underscoring the need to foster memorable, healthier, and more sustainable travel experiences.

ENHANCED ORGANIC MATTER DECOMPOSITION BY BACILLUS CEREUS ASAT-8 IN THAI AQUAPONIC SYSTEMS

Soranot CHOTNIPAT — 2025-10-01

This research investigates the potential of Bacillus cereus ASAT-8, isolated from local Thai aquaponic systems, for enhanced organic matter decomposition. Aquaponics integrates hydroponics with aquaculture, necessitating the practical cycling of nutrients via microbial decomposition. This study isolated and characterized bacterial strains with high decomposition and nitrification capabilities. Water samples were collected, and twenty-one bacterial isolates were obtained using a modified Pep-Beef-AOB medium. Isolate ASAT-8, demonstrating high ammonia-oxidizing activity, was identified as Bacillus cereus (99% similarity) through partial 16S rRNA gene sequencing. Bacillus cereus ASAT-8 effectively reduced ammonia levels in organic waste, suggesting its potential to improve water quality. The widespread presence of Bacillus spp. Indicates a reliance on natural microbial resources in aquaponics. Incorporating Bacillus spp. can reduce water changes, minimize fish waste, and enhance food production. This study highlights the importance of Bacillus cereus for sustainable aquaponic practices, contributing to zero-waste food production.

PHYSIOLOGICAL AND PERCEPTUAL EVALUATION OF RIDING COMFORT IN MOUNTAINOUS RAILWAYS

Boualaphanh THAVONGSY — 2025-10-22

This study investigates riding comfort in mountainous tourism rail transit by integrating subjective passenger feedback with objective physiological and environmental data. Using the Lijiang Yulong Snow Mountain line as a case study, the research identifies key factors influencing passenger comfort and proposes strategies for improvement. Physiological signals, including electrocardiography (ECG), electromyography (EMG), and skin conductance, were recorded alongside environmental parameters such as vibration, noise, and altitude. Factor analysis revealed three significant components: physical comfort, environmental adaptability, and service experience. High-altitude sections above 3000 m led to an 18% reduction in heart rate variability (HRV) (p < 0.01) and were strongly associated with passenger fatigue. Sharp curves with a radius below 150 m increased muscle activity by 22% (p < 0.001). The results suggest that multi-faceted evaluation of ride comfort in mountainous rail should combine passenger perception with environmental and physiological data like HRV, EMG, and skin conductance. Targeted strategies, including adaptive suspension systems and altitude-adjustive seating, are proposed to improve comfort in complex terrains. Beyond the case of Lijiang, the results provide practical insights for the design, operation, and management of tourism rail systems in other Asian mountainous regions, thereby supporting sustainable tourism development and enhancing passenger-centered travel experiences.