In the context of global tourism moving towards sustainability, the development of community-based tourism has emerged as a trend. Recently, the United Nations World Tourism Organization recognized Tra Que Vegetable Village in Quang Nam as Vietnam's sole representative to receive the award "Best Tourism Villages in the World 2024". Previously, in 2022 and 2023, this honor was bestowed upon Thai Hai village (Thai Nguyen) and Tan Hoa village (Quang Binh).

Visitors enjoying the experience aboard sedge rafts, crafted from the raw materials for weaving mats and knitting handicrafts in An Cư commune (Tuy An district)

These villages serve as vivid examples of sustainable development, showcasing the harmonious integration of cultural identity with local tourism resources. The success of these models provides valuable lessons for advancing community-based tourism (CBT) in our locality.

As well as many localities across the country, Phu Yen also possesses favorable conditions and many resources for the development of CBT cultural villages.

In Phu Yen, a number of craft villages and cultural tourism villages have been formed, including Ngoc Lang vegetable village, Long Thuy cultural tourism village (Tuy Hoa city), An Cu sedge mat village, Yen village (Tuy An district), Lê Diem cultural hamlet (Song Hinh district), Lien Son village, Hoa Ngai (Son Hoa district), Xi Thoai cultural tourism village (Dong Xuan district), etc.

However, the current tourism products and methods in these villages are not yet outstanding, fail to attract visitors, and are not commensurate with the potential and expectations.

According to Mr Pham Hai Quynh, Director of the Asia Tourism Development Institute and an expert in CBT development, the highlight of renowned CBT villages lies in their ability to organize engaging experiential activities, both in work and daily life, associated with local characteristics and culture, approaching to attract a large number of domestic and foreign tourists. The combination of tourism and the preservation of traditional culture not only generates economic benefits but also contributes to maintain and develop sustainably.

Cultural and historical researcher Phan Dinh Phung, PPC former vice chairman, who has long been attached to professional work and management in the field of culture and tourism, shared that in order to develop tourism, it is necessary to have individuals who are capable of both driving tourism and creating tourism products. 

In which, tourism products must be unique and distinctive. "What we offer should not be the same as others; in case of similar resources, resembling products, we must find ways to differentiate ourselves by enhancing indigenous cultural values in marine tourism products and introducing new and innovative organizational methods...", comrade Phan Dinh Phung said.

The lesson for local CBTs aiming for sustainable development is to take advantage of localities and exploit the potential from traditional craft villages in tranquil rural areas.

Building typical tourism products is one of the important factors for the CBT sustainable development, which is to create tourism products with indigenous imprints, not only reflecting local culture and customs but also providing economic benefits to the community.

Furthermore, community training and capacity building are also essential. The training and capacity building for the community in tourism, marketing, and management skills will enhance their confidence in welcoming and serving visitors.

In addition, promoting the CBT brand as well as branding of CBT villages is a key factor for attracting both domestic and international tourists. Utilizing social media platforms, travel websites, and forming partnerships with travel agencies are effective strategies for promotion.

Source: Phu Yen Newspaper

Translated by HAI LOAN