Regional Community-Based Ecotourism Development Strategy in Quang Nam and Thua Thien Hue

The study area includes Quang Nam and Thua Thien Hue provinces in central Vietnam, which are known for their rich biodiversity and cultural heritage. The strategy aims to develop community-based ecotourism (CBET) in the region, which involves the participation of local communities in the planning, management, and benefits of tourism activities. The objectives of the strategy are to conserve natural and cultural resources, promote sustainable livelihoods for local communities, and develop a competitive and responsible tourism industry. The Consultant Team conducted a thorough analysis of the region's ecotourism resources, including natural and cultural attractions, access and transportation, accommodation, human resources, and ecotourism promotion and branding. The analysis identified strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats (SWOT) for CBET development in the region. The strategy framework is based on the principles of CBET development, which include community participation, sustainable resource management, and fair distribution of benefits. The strategic approaches for ecotourism development include improving institutions and policies, supporting the conservation of natural resources and culture, developing human resources and community capacities, investing in infrastructure and ecotourism facilities, developing products, and promoting and marketing the region's ecotourism offerings. The proposed programs for implementing the strategy include improving institutions and policies, supporting the conservation of natural resources and culture, developing human resources and community capacities, investing in infrastructure and ecotourism facilities, developing products, and promoting and marketing the region's ecotourism offerings. The strategy also proposes piloting and replicating CBET models in the region. The implementation solutions for the strategy include establishing a project management unit, developing a project implementation plan, and securing funding for the project. The sustainability of the strategy is ensured through the involvement of stakeholders, including local communities, government agencies, and private sector organizations, in the planning, management, and benefits of tourism activities. The strategy also includes a market analysis, which identifies the region's ecotourism market trends, tourist arrivals, and tourism receipts. The analysis provides insights into the potential for ecotourism development in the region and informs the development of the strategy. The Regional Community-Based Ecotourism Development Strategy in Quang Nam and Thua Thien Hue provides a comprehensive framework for developing community-based ecotourism in the region. The strategy aims to promote sustainable livelihoods for local communities, conserve natural and cultural resources, and develop a competitive and responsible tourism industry.