Regional research “Agricultural innovations review in Sub-Mekong region countries” in the framework of the project “Network for Agriculture and Rural Development Think-tanks for Countries in Mekong sub-region” – November 2022 - April 2023.

Community-based tourism is an ecological and cultural combination that aims to protect the environment, preserve culture values, and improve people's lives. In Lac village, Hoa Binh province, Thai ethnic people upgrade houses, cook delicious food, and set up performing arts teams to serve tourists. Women and men create souvenirs, and the tourism has diversified to homestays. It is also chosen by tourists due to reasonable costs, security, and order.

Chieng Chau commune, home to six ethnic groups, has seen a shift towards community-based tourism, with the Thai ethnic group accounting for 85%. Lac village, a part of the commune, has leveraged its unique cultural identity and topographical conditions to attract tourists and invest in community-based tourism. The model involves three main components: local community, local government, and travel businesses.

Community tourism products in Lac village include homestays, food service, souvenirs, costume rental, entertainment, traditional markets, and daily Mai Chau tours. Over 76 households have registered to provide tourism services, contributing to the influx of tourists and increasing incomes for residents. In July 2021, the Chieng Chau Commune Farmers' Association established the Farmers' Professional Association "Farmers and Homestay" in Lac village, with 18 members participating. The association is built on the principles of self-discipline, voluntariness, self-control, self-management, self-responsibility, and "5 together," promoting shared responsibility and enjoyment.

Homestay service in Hoa Binh province - Festival “Xên Mường" of ethnic Thai ethnic people in Hoa Binh province

Source: VnExpress and Hoa Binh Department of Culture, Sports and Tourism.

The community provides cultural services and guided tours, while local authorities manage the village, promote national culture, and ensure security. Travel companies directly support local tourism by building tours and improving facilities. Community-based tourism has created jobs for about 300 workers with stable income. Besides renting accommodation, processing food for guests, people also have income from selling souvenirs, renting costumes, participating in art teams...

Community-based tourism positively impacts local lives by restoring traditional crafts, creating jobs, increasing revenue, and promoting farming and animal raising. It also preserves and promotes Thai ethnic cultural values, such as social activities, art, family lifestyle, and traditional dances and songs.

Click this link for detail information: Community tourism model: Lac Village in Hoa Binh province