Charity tourism is becoming more popular and is drawing a great deal of attention from the community before the Tet festival.  This is due to its messages of environmental and health protection, and its help for poor people. 

Da Nang’s travel agents often launch these tours at the year-end because many local businesses arrange holidays for their employees.  This type of tourism provides an opportunity for them not only to relax after a hard working year, but also to do charity work.

A group on a charity tourism tour

To express their deep gratitude to their customers, as well as to become actively involved in charitable activities for the community, local travel companies are offering these tours at cheaper prices than those of regular tours. 

However, many local volunteer groups are interested in organising their own trips to poor local rural areas in order to save money and take more initiatives during their stay.  They include the Bup Sen Hong (Pink Lotus) and the 26+ groups, and the Viet Tre Tai Nang (Talented Young Vietnamese) Club.

In addition to domestic tourists, this type of tourism is attracting more attention from foreigners because it helps them to find the true values of life and make their trips more meaningful. 

Mr Alar Cartan from Canada is a typical example.  He said that he was impressed with a bike tour which he had recently taken part in which raised funds for local poor students.  He added that the tour gave him a memorable experience where he could enjoy the beauty of the city, and make a contribution to the community.