Planning for Riverside Area as Water Tourism Destination to Improve Quality of Life Local Residents, Case Study: Batuan - Sikambing River, Medan, Indonesia

Protected riverside area can make rivers as a source of water, water transport and water tourism destination. Nowadays, water tourism is increasingly popular to people. Local residents should be given an understanding of the importance of tourism activities mainly based on the river environment and things that need to be done to support these activities. River cleanliness must be maintained and preserved. This research was conducted at Batuan-Sikambing River, Medan, Indonesia. Research carried out quantitatively by using the questionnaire survey, where local residents become respondents. Data was analyzed descriptively; frequency to produce planning recommendation. Most respondents agreed that Batuan-Sikambing River could be a tourist destination. Provision of facilities is expected to support efforts to improve the quality of life of local communities. Recommendations resulting from this study are expected to be reference to the government and developers.