Vietnam culture and beach vacation

Planet

Carbon Reductions
This tour encourages mindful travel to reduce carbon emissions wherever possible. By prioritizing multi-day stays in areas like Ho Chi Minh City, Can Tho, and Con Dao, guests can minimize frequent travel-related emissions and instead explore each region in-depth. Local guides lead this itinerary, relying on efficient transport options such as carpooling for group tours and local transportation when practical, significantly reducing the tour’s carbon footprint. In the Mekong Delta, travelers engage in eco-friendly river cruises that help preserve river ecosystems and reduce the impact on the land-based routes. Finally, Con Dao’s relatively unspoiled landscapes are protected through eco-tourism guidelines that aim to maintain the island’s unique environment. Travelers are encouraged to limit energy and water use, ensuring the natural beauty of the region is sustained.

Environment and Wildlife
Each location on this itinerary supports Vietnam’s diverse ecosystems and wildlife. In the Mekong Delta, visitors encounter delicate river ecosystems and learn about sustainable fishing practices that protect local habitats. Tours here emphasize respect for native plants and animals, while visits to family-run farms support eco-friendly methods of production. On Con Dao Island, which is part of a protected marine and national park, snorkeling and diving experiences are conducted with the utmost care for marine life. This archipelago is home to vibrant coral reefs and rare wildlife, including the green sea turtle; interactions are monitored to avoid disturbing these sensitive species. By highlighting local flora and fauna through guided tours, the itinerary helps travelers develop a deep appreciation for the region’s biodiversity and fosters greater environmental responsibility.

In 2002, a small group of Cao Vit Gibbons, the second rarest ape in the world was discovered in North Vietnam. We had already been working with FFI (Fauna & Flora International Vietnam) for some time. After a careful investigation, it was considered that a significant danger to the Gibbons was the wood burnt by indigent people living deep in the forest.

Recognising the need, in 2008 we sponsored for three communes located near the conservation areas to build 96 fuel-efficient stoves. These use much less wood thus reducing the amount required. The project was completed, but the threat of poachers and other dangers remained. We continuously sponsor in the form of a full-time ranger for the Cao Vit Gibbon Conservation Project. More are needed.

People

Local Economy and Employment
The tour supports the local economy by prioritizing services provided by local vendors, from accommodation to guided tours. In bustling Ho Chi Minh City, visits to local markets and traditional craft workshops—like those creating intricate lacquerware—directly benefit local artisans and help preserve traditional crafts. The Mekong Delta experience goes further, including stops at family-run brick kilns and orchards, where travelers learn about traditional practices and sustainable agriculture, helping support families whose livelihoods depend on these industries. In Con Dao, the tour promotes local accommodations and employs island-based guides, thereby supporting an area with limited economic opportunities. By traveling with locals and choosing authentic accommodations, the tour ensures that financial benefits directly reach the communities involved.

Inclusivity and Diversity
Vietnam’s cultural diversity is central to this journey, and the tour actively fosters inclusion by highlighting varied perspectives and histories. The tour incorporates sites like the Cao Dai Holy See, a central place of worship for a uniquely Vietnamese religion, showcasing the country’s religious diversity. Additionally, guests explore the long-standing Khmer influence at temples like Munir Ansay, promoting understanding and appreciation of ethnic minorities in the Mekong Delta. This inclusivity extends to the people involved in delivering the tour itself, as local guides from different backgrounds bring varied perspectives on Vietnam’s rich heritage, history, and contemporary life. Each traveler can engage in meaningful exchanges with local residents, enhancing intercultural understanding and contributing to a more inclusive global community.

We have also sponsored Agent Orange victims to rebuild their lives. An example is Ms. Oanh, who has been being sponsored by us since 2006. Recently, Oanh was admitted to study for a university journalism degree. We also support the Nguyen Dinh Chieu Blind School in Hanoi to assist their expenses on boarding house for nearly a hundred of blind pupils.

Wherever possible, we contract local indigenous suppliers, assist them to improve the quality of their services and pay them directly instead of using intermediaries. By booking this tour, you’ll be assisting us to strengthen local Vietnamese service providers and disadvantaged people in communities in areas such as the Mekong Delta.

We have developed strong links with individuals and small communities to reinforce Vietnam’s rich tangible and intangible heritage by the betterment of its people: craftspeople, artists, performers, artisans, boat owners, those participating nature conservation, small businesses and the many enterprises that work with us. We encourage small groups of travelers to mingle with their activities thereby intensifying the depth of visitor experience.

By taking small groups of tourists to rarely visited destinations, the host village or event becomes more significant for both foreigner and locals, particularly if they are involved in joint activities. Tourism is a valuable tool in slowing the loss of heritage in this way.