What is CBT Vietnam? CBT stands for "community based tourism". The CBT VIETNAM PROJECT is a partnership between the PATA Foundation, Hanoi Open University and Capilano University. Our work builds from a successful 5-year, CIDA funded community tourism training initiative from 2002 - 2007.

What is community based tourism (CBT)? Community based tourism is a form of tourism where the local community has substantial control over and involvement in tourism development and management. Benefits remain within the community. 

Are you a tour company? No, CBT Vietnam is a partnership between the villages and the training partners (Capilano University, Hanoi Open University and the PATA Foundation. 

What do we do? Our goal is to ensure that benefits of increased tourist visitation are distributed widely in the villages and that the tourist experience is made positive for the visitor and host alike. Training areas focus on general tourism knowledge, tourism planning, entrepreneurship and environmental stewardship and homestay development. 

How do host communities benefit? Income generated by homestay development is a significant outcome.  We estimate that with these new opportunities a family previously earning $500/year now earns almost $2,400/year. 

Where do we work? Our project maintains critical momentum in several remarkable village communities in Sapa, Vietnam. Sapa is in north Vietnam. We work with Black Hmong, Red Dao and Giay ethnic minority communities in the villages of Lao Chai, Tavan, Taphin and Giang Ta Chai. 

How can you support the project? Sapa is an amazing travel experience. You can support the local communities by booking your visit at an authentic homestay in Sapa, Vietnam. You may also donate to the project.