Paper Title
SOCIAL NETWORKS OF CROSS BORDER TRAVEL AND TOURISM: PEOPLE’S MOBILITIES UNDER THE SPECIAL BORDER ZONES

Abstract
Abstract: This article aims to provide a discussion on the spatial dynamics of Nong Khai - Vientiane as a special border economic zone, including social networks which have impacts on the mobility of people in the dimension of cross-border travel and tourism. The study is conducted by using documentary and qualitative research methods. Interviews of stakeholders and informants who have been involved with cross-border flows and mobility in travel and tourism were also included. The informants for the interviews consisted of entrepreneurs in the tourism business, cross-border tourism service users, officers from government, and private units. In this study, the social networks having impacts on people’s mobility in the dimension of cross-border travel and tourism are classified into four types: 1) network building through technology; 2) network building with government and private organizations, and local entrepreneurs; 3) network building through infrastructure and regulations; and 4) network building through cultural intimacy. Cross-border travel and tourism result in institutional and social networks which have direct impacts on cross-border travel and tourism. The expansion of networks within groups of entrepreneurs whose work is related to the travel and tourism business, such as tour operators, car rental companies, restaurants, accommodation, and hotels, is apparent. Keywords - Cross-Border Travel and Tourism; Mobility; Social Network; Special Border Zone; Special Border Economic Zone