Community Based Sustainable Tourism in Halong Bay
As one of the tourism hotspots of Vietnam, Halong Bay is becoming more sensitive to the need for sustainable tourism.
The most crucial aspect of sustainable tourism is to create a favorable impact on the environment and the communities you visit. This includes the wildlife, landscapes, and local inhabitants, emphasizing the importance of using local transportation, purchasing from local vendors, savoring local cuisine, and being conscious of waste disposal.
Community-Based Tourism
Halong Bay has successfully embraced sustainable tourism through community-based initiatives. This approach allows local communities to invite visitors to explore their surroundings while generating income by selling products and offering services. This type of tourism allows travelers to experience the local environment authentically and intimately.
Community-based tourism provides visitors with unique insights into local life, including traditional rituals, wildlife, and age-old customs. Such experiences raise awareness among locals about the social and economic value of their cultural heritage, enabling the preservation of their community while ensuring that residents earn a sustainable livelihood. The local government and tourism agencies in Halong Bay are actively working towards advancing sustainable tourism practices.
Sustainable Activities
One of Halong Bay's most sought-after sustainable tourism activities is visiting the floating villages. Numerous tour companies facilitate trips to these villages, allowing tourists to fully engage with the lifestyle of the locals. For instance, visitors can experience life as a fisherman and even partake in daily chores, culminating in a shared meal with residents. The most frequented destinations include Vung Vieng and Cua Van, with trips typically lasting a full day.
Floating fishing village in Halong Bay.
Plan Your Own Sustainable Trip
These excursions can be entirely personalized without needing to book through a travel agency. If you opt to plan your trip independently, be sure to inform your hotel or cruise operator about your itinerary. They can assist with transportation, translation services, and establishing contact with local village residents.
