Vietnam coastal communities integrate tourism with local fishing livelihoods

In central Vietnam, coastal communities are developing sustainable tourism models centered on existing local livelihoods rather than large-scale infrastructure. In areas such as the Tan Thanh community tourism area in Hoi An and the Tam Tien fish market in Da Nang, tourism is being integrated into traditional activities like fishing and seafood trading.

At the Tam Tien fish market in Tam Xuan commune, an afternoon session has been established to allow tourists to interact with fishermen, purchase fresh seafood directly, and participate in local traditions. This model provides fishermen with an additional market for their catch while preserving their primary occupation. Local businesses, including homestays and restaurants, benefit from the influx of visitors, many of whom are cross-country backpackers interested in the local coral reefs and maritime culture.