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Creating a new livelihood through tourism: Mr. Nhat and Mrs. Quy

Sep. 27, 2023

SUPPORTING THREE GENERATIONS THROUGH TOURISM

Over 42% of people in this mountainous region of northern Vietnam live below the poverty line. Most of the population, which includes a high proportion of ethnic minority groups, relies on agricultural production. However, after the construction of a hydro-electric dam displaced many communities from the fertile lowlands to rugged uplands, they now face significant challenges in earning a living.

Mr. Nhat and Mrs. Quy, a Dao couple from Sung village, were among those earning an unreliable income from farming. They struggled to care for their elderly parents and send their two children to school. Mr Nhat considered moving to the city to find work, but he worried about leaving his family.

FINDING A SOLUTION IN COMMUNITY-BASED TOURISM

In Vietnam, Action on Poverty’s community-based tourism project is helping ethnic minority groups develop long-term livelihoods. Da Bac is a dramatic and breathtaking mountainous region that’s home to small communities with unique cultures, making it an attractive destination for tourists looking for a unique tourism experience.

When Mr. Nhat and Mrs. Quy heard about the success of the Da Bac community-based tourism model in neighbouring villages, they decided it could work for their family. After consulting their family, they decided to turn their house into a homestay and use tourism as their primary livelihood.

EMBRACING TOURISM FOR SECURE LIVELIHOODS

With a small loan, Mr. Nhat and Mrs. Quy upgraded their home with some new facilities for international guests, such as Western bathrooms, while retaining many traditional touches. They also attended training in hospitality, English, and food preparation and hygiene. They began welcoming their first guests in 2018.

Mr. Nhat and Mrs. Quy have now been operating their Da Bac community-based tourism business for over a year. They have received wonderful feedback from both domestic and international visitors. Guests love experiencing the life of a traditional Dao Village and exploring the nearby mountains, caves, and forests.

Reaping rewards for three generations

Mr Nhat and Mrs Quy have drastically improved their income, earning an extra $670 a month. This guarantees good living conditions for the whole family and education for the children. “Thanks to the CBT project, my family can introduce our culture and lifestyle to visitors,” said Mr. Nhat.

“I never imagined serving international visitors one day. The income from tourism also helps me afford a higher quality of life for three generations of my family without me moving to the city.”