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In 1999 the term \u201cCBT\u201d (Community based tourism) came into existence.\u00a0 The phrase is used generally in the field of international cooperation in developing countries, though it is decidedly not used as a commercial claim.\u00a0 <\/p>\n
In a broad sense this term relates to the economic significance of tourism for less developed countries and is particularly linked to the actions implemented by NGOs, which contribute to the socioeconomic development of vulnerable populations and the overall development of an area through economic alternatives such as those granted by ecotourism.<\/p>\n
The Spanish Agency for International Development Cooperation and the Foundation for the Social Promotion of Culture are promoting the development of the Ngoc Son Ngo Luong Nature Reserve, as an ecotourism destination, which at a local level is administered by the Muong community and whose identity is demonstrated through their respect for nature, tradition and culture.<\/p>\n
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This nature reserve is situated in the north of Vietnam, in Hoa Binh, which is very close to Hanoi.<\/p>\n
This protected area is an environmental corridor that forms part of the singular and valuable Vietnamese mountain ecosystem, inhabited by 15.000 people belonging to the Muong ethnic minority, most of whom live below the poverty line.<\/p>\n
Among its main attractions, one of the most noteworthy is its clean waterways, caves, waterfalls and streams as well as its wonderful villages, the beauty of the culture and the hospitality of the people.<\/p>\n
The objective of this program is to develop this area as an ecotourism destination: that is, a form of tourism that respects the environment, and that represents a genuine alternative to mass tourism. <\/p>\n
This initiative has helped to provide the reserve with infrastructure and services of very low environmental impact. Trekking routes were designed throughout the reserve and local people have been trained in tourism and hospitality management, allowing this activity to be integrated into their lifestyles.![\"\"](\"https:\/\/promocionsocial.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/02\/IMAGEN_Homestay_1_INT_AJ.jpg\")
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Alejandro and Maria from Asturias, who chose this tourist destination, said, without a doubt, the best attraction of the whole experience was the interaction between the traveller and the Muong population. The travellers stay in so-called \u201chomestays\u201d where they are taken care of by a family inside their home.<\/p>\n
Alejandro told us: “It\u2019s a unique experience to be able to enjoy dinner in the company of the local population whilst sharing anecdotes and customs.”<\/p>\n
There is the possibility of organizing a trip to this nature reserve through HANDSPAN Vietnamese tour operator. Guide service and car hire can be arranged. <\/p>\n
The tourist destination of Ngoc Son Ngo Luong Nature Reserve is ideal for those embrace the requirements of a famous slogan that summarizes the concept of ecotourism: \u201cLeave nothing but your footprints, take no more than photographs, kill no more than time,\u201d and the sustainable development of disadvantaged local people such as the Muong ethnic minority.<\/p>\n
For more information, please contact: <\/p>\n
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