MI holds a roadshow on sustainable and smart tourism development in Hue, Viet Nam
March 7, 2023
The Mekong Institute (MI) recently held a workshop on March 7, 2023, in Hue, Viet Nam, as part of its "Sustainable and Smart Tourism Development in the Mekong Region" project. The initiative is funded by the Mekong-Republic of Korea Cooperation Fund and aims to promote sustainable tourism practices in the region. The workshop focused on introducing a new sustainable tourism application and engaging with key stakeholders involved in the tourism sector in Hue.
In addition to providing a platform for collaboration and knowledge-sharing among stakeholders, the workshop also offered attendees an opportunity to explore locally-made products. Market stalls showcasing materials and handicrafts were set up around the main hall's periphery, providing a chance for attendees to purchase these items and support local artisans.
Vice Chairman of the Hue Municipal People’s Committee, Nguyen Thanh Binh, welcomed guests to the ancient capital, highlighting its historical and cultural significance and status as a "National Green City" and ASEAN Clean Tourist City. Thua Thien Hue province is promoting tourism as a spearhead economic sector with a focus on sustainability, professionalism, and smart development.
Mr. Madhurjya Dutta, Director of the Trade and Investment Facilitation Department, MI, provided information on the application, which is initially aimed at hotels and resorts that have adopted sustainability and cultural and creative economic activities as part of their core business model. The tool is envisioned as an accessible and efficient means of sustainable and smart tourism in the Mekong region.
Catherine Grenier, CEO of Destination Mekong, provided additional information on the new tourism app featuring a central database management system that includes customer reviews, images, stories, links to websites, deals, and other marketing materials for points of interest.
Dr. Sang-won Park of Kyung Hee University in Korea joined the event online for a discussion of the technical aspect of the new tourism application. Dr. Park shared insights into the unique cultural and sustainable emphasis provided by this application that differentiates it from existing products in the market. The application will be available on app stores, including Google Play and Apple.
Ms. Daisy Park, a Project Consultant, emphasized the importance of establishing linkages between cultural destinations, such as Hue, and Korea’s popular cultural brands in TV and music to increase Hue's appeal to Korean travelers.
In his closing remarks, Director of the Department of Tourism, Mr. Nguyen Van Phuc thanked delegates and speakers for sharing knowledge and solutions to promote sustainable tourism.