In recent years, local ethnic minorities in the northern mountainous provinces have joined in developing community tourism, which has helped them improve their living conditions.

At this brocade-weaving club, local ethnic women have realized this trade not only helps preserve the traditional costumes but also enables them to earn a sustainable income. Alongside preserving the traditional craft to meet the demand of tourists and selling souvenirs for holidaymakers, local residents in Lao Cai province have also turned their houses into homestays and promoted community-based tourism. In Lao Cai there are over 300 homestays, mostly in Sa Pa, Bac Ha, Bat Xat districts. Local residents are also provided with training sessions on community-based tourism and initial investment on infrastructure. Community tourism has created more than 3,000 jobs for local people and improved their living standards.-VNA