Community-based tourism in Lang Son

Quynh Son village has provided community tourism services and this model has contributed to reducing poverty and improving living conditions of local residents.

Villager Duong Cong Chai said, “My family is one of five local households to take part in the community-based tourism model. The first benefit we’ve seen is the increase of income for the family and improvement of our living conditions. Second is that the model has created jobs for young villagers.”

After 9 years, the model in Quynh Son has attracted 8 local households to build their own homestays to receive visitors. Annually, the village receives about 10,000 visitors, who come to explore the old stilt houses, traditional crafts, and  the unique life of the Tay ethnic minority group.

Cheung Fe Lix, a tourist from Hong Kong, was impressed when visiting the Quynh Son community tourism village.

“I have been here for two days. The schedule is quite exciting. Local people are friendly. Today we rode bikes on bumpy roads but the surrounding scenery was amazing. I’m impressed and satisfied with the local activities and services, as well as the kindness of the people and beauty of the area,” CheungFe said.

Visitors attend a Then singing performance at Quynh Son village. (Photo: baovanhoa.com.vn)

In order to fully tap the community tourism model, Lang Son has begun investing in eco-tourism, resorts, infrastructure, and promotion of brands. The locality has also strengthened regional connectivity and developed human resources to create unique tourism products.

Tran Thi Bich Hanh, Director of the provincial Tourism Promotion Information Centre, said, “Following the effective implementation of tourism models such as Quynh Son in Bac Son district and Huu Lien in Huu Lung, we are continuing to pilot similar models in Vu Lang commune, Bac Son district. We’ll provide them all with the necessary know-how so that the locals can run the model efficiently.”