Are There Successful Examples of Community-Based Tourism in Phu Tho?

Community-based tourism (CBT) in Phu Tho offers enriching travel experiences and empowers local communities. SIXT.VN is dedicated to providing seamless travel solutions to help you explore these unique destinations, connecting you with the heart of Vietnamese culture and landscapes. With responsible travel and sustainable tourism, discover authentic experiences that benefit both travelers and local communities.

1. What is Community-Based Tourism and Why is it Important?

Community-based tourism (CBT) is a form of tourism where local communities have substantial control over, and involvement in, the tourism development and management, ensuring that they receive a major proportion of the benefits. CBT is important because it promotes sustainable development, preserves cultural heritage, and empowers local communities economically.

• Definition of Community-Based Tourism (CBT): CBT is a tourism model where local communities are directly involved in managing and benefiting from tourism activities. According to the Vietnam Community Based Tourism Handbook, CBT offers visitors an experience of local life, involving communities directly in tourism while ensuring they benefit socio-economically and take responsibility for protecting natural resources, the environment, and local culture.
• Importance of CBT: CBT ensures that tourism activities contribute positively to the local economy, preserve cultural traditions, and protect the environment. According to the World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC) and Trip.com, 69% of travelers want sustainable travel, highlighting the need for CBT to ensure tourism doesn’t negatively impact local communities or the environment.
• Benefits for Local Communities: CBT provides income opportunities, supports cultural preservation, and promotes environmental conservation. For instance, in areas with ethnic minorities, CBT helps preserve their culture and protects their natural surroundings. Funds generated are often reinvested in community development, such as improving infrastructure, healthcare, and education.
• Benefits for Tourists: Tourists gain authentic experiences and deeper cultural insights by engaging with local communities. CBT offers unique activities like learning traditional crafts, participating in local festivals, and enjoying home-cooked meals, providing a more meaningful and immersive travel experience.
• Sustainability Aspects: CBT emphasizes environmental sustainability by encouraging responsible tourism practices. Local communities are often the best stewards of their environment, implementing practices that minimize negative impacts and conserve natural resources.
• Challenges of CBT: Challenges include ensuring equitable distribution of benefits, managing tourism’s impact on local culture, and maintaining environmental sustainability. Effective planning, community involvement, and continuous monitoring are crucial to address these challenges.
• Examples of Successful CBT Initiatives Globally: Numerous successful CBT initiatives exist worldwide, from ecotourism projects in Costa Rica to cultural tourism in Nepal. These initiatives demonstrate the potential of CBT to drive sustainable development and empower local communities while offering unique travel experiences.

2. What is the Potential of Phu Tho for Community-Based Tourism?

Phu Tho province, with its rich cultural heritage and stunning natural landscapes, has immense potential for community-based tourism (CBT). The province’s diverse ethnic groups, historical sites, and picturesque scenery make it an ideal location for developing CBT initiatives that can benefit both tourists and local communities.

• Rich Cultural Heritage: Phu Tho is home to Hung Kings Temple, a significant historical and cultural site that attracts many visitors. The province also boasts unique traditions, festivals, and crafts practiced by various ethnic groups, offering tourists a rich cultural experience. According to the Department of Culture, Sports and Tourism of Phu Tho, cultural tourism accounts for a significant portion of tourist arrivals, indicating a strong interest in experiencing local culture.
• Natural Landscapes: Phu Tho features beautiful landscapes including mountains, forests, and rivers, providing opportunities for eco-tourism and adventure activities. The province’s natural beauty can be leveraged to create CBT products that focus on outdoor activities and environmental conservation.
• Ethnic Diversity: Phu Tho is home to several ethnic minority groups, each with its distinct culture and traditions. Engaging with these communities can offer tourists authentic and immersive experiences while supporting the preservation of local heritage.
• Agricultural Tourism: Phu Tho’s agricultural practices, such as tea cultivation and rice farming, can be integrated into CBT offerings. Tourists can participate in farming activities, learn about local agricultural techniques, and enjoy farm-to-table meals, enhancing their connection with the local community.
• Infrastructure Development: While Phu Tho has made strides in infrastructure development, further improvements are needed to support CBT initiatives. Better transportation, accommodation, and tourist facilities in rural areas can enhance the overall tourist experience and encourage more visitors.
• Community Engagement: The success of CBT in Phu Tho depends on the active participation and support of local communities. Involving residents in the planning and management of tourism activities ensures that benefits are shared equitably and cultural values are preserved.
• Sustainable Practices: Promoting sustainable tourism practices is crucial to protect Phu Tho’s natural and cultural resources. This includes waste management, conservation efforts, and responsible tourism behaviors that minimize negative impacts on the environment and local communities.

3. What are Some Existing Community-Based Tourism Projects in Phu Tho?

While Phu Tho is still developing its community-based tourism (CBT) sector, several initiatives showcase the potential for sustainable and culturally enriching tourism experiences in the region. These projects often focus on leveraging the natural beauty and unique cultural heritage of local communities to attract tourists and generate income.

• Homestays in Ethnic Villages: Several villages in Phu Tho offer homestay accommodations, allowing tourists to stay with local families and experience their daily lives. These homestays provide an opportunity to learn about traditional customs, sample local cuisine, and participate in cultural activities. For example, in some areas, visitors can stay in traditional stilt houses and learn about the unique architecture and lifestyle of the local ethnic groups.
• Cultural Tours and Workshops: Guided tours of local villages and cultural workshops are another form of CBT in Phu Tho. These tours often include visits to historical sites, traditional craft workshops, and performances of local music and dance. Visitors can learn about the history of the region, try their hand at traditional crafts, and enjoy authentic cultural experiences.
• Agro-Tourism Initiatives: Phu Tho’s agricultural landscape provides opportunities for agro-tourism, where visitors can participate in farming activities and learn about local agricultural practices. Some farms offer tours of tea plantations, rice paddies, and fruit orchards, allowing visitors to see how local produce is grown and harvested.
• Eco-Tourism Activities: Phu Tho’s natural environment is ideal for eco-tourism activities such as hiking, bird watching, and nature photography. Local guides can lead visitors on treks through the forests and mountains, pointing out unique flora and fauna and sharing their knowledge of the local ecosystem.
• Community-Run Restaurants and Cafes: Some communities have established restaurants and cafes that serve traditional dishes made with locally sourced ingredients. These establishments provide income opportunities for local residents and offer tourists a chance to taste authentic Phu Tho cuisine.
• Challenges and Opportunities: Despite these initiatives, CBT in Phu Tho faces challenges such as limited infrastructure, lack of marketing and promotion, and the need for capacity building among local communities. However, with proper support and investment, these challenges can be overcome, and CBT can become a significant contributor to the local economy and cultural preservation efforts.
• Future Development: The Phu Tho Department of Culture, Sports and Tourism has outlined plans to further develop CBT in the province, including initiatives to improve infrastructure, promote sustainable tourism practices, and support community-led tourism projects. By focusing on these areas, Phu Tho can unlock its full potential as a CBT destination and provide meaningful experiences for tourists while benefiting local communities.

4. Can you give me specific examples of Successful CBT models in other provinces that Phu Tho can learn from?

Phu Tho can draw inspiration from successful community-based tourism (CBT) models in other Vietnamese provinces to develop its own initiatives. These models highlight best practices in community involvement, sustainable tourism, and cultural preservation.

• Sapa, Lao Cai Province: Sapa is a prime example of CBT in Vietnam, with numerous ethnic minority villages offering homestays, guided tours, and cultural experiences. The success of CBT in Sapa lies in the active involvement of local communities in managing tourism activities and ensuring that benefits are shared equitably.
  • Key Features: Homestays in traditional houses, guided treks through rice terraces, cultural performances, and handicraft workshops.
  • Lessons for Phu Tho: Emphasize community ownership, provide training and support for local guides and homestay operators, and promote sustainable tourism practices to minimize environmental impact.
• Mai Chau, Hoa Binh Province: Mai Chau is known for its beautiful valley landscapes and vibrant ethnic culture. CBT initiatives in Mai Chau focus on providing tourists with authentic experiences of local life, such as staying in traditional stilt houses, participating in agricultural activities, and enjoying local cuisine.
  • Key Features: Homestays in stilt houses, cycling tours through the valley, cultural performances, and cooking classes.
  • Lessons for Phu Tho: Develop eco-friendly accommodations, offer a range of cultural activities, and promote local cuisine as a unique selling point.
• Hoi An, Quang Nam Province: While Hoi An is a well-established tourist destination, it has also successfully integrated CBT into its tourism offerings. Local communities in the surrounding areas offer tours of traditional craft villages, cooking classes, and homestay accommodations, providing tourists with a more immersive cultural experience.
  • Key Features: Craft village tours, cooking classes, homestays in rural areas, and cycling tours through the countryside.
  • Lessons for Phu Tho: Diversify tourism offerings to include cultural and experiential activities, support local artisans and entrepreneurs, and promote sustainable tourism practices.
• Moc Chau, Son La Province: Moc Chau is famous for its tea plantations, dairy farms, and stunning natural landscapes. CBT initiatives in Moc Chau focus on agro-tourism and eco-tourism, allowing visitors to experience the region’s agricultural heritage and natural beauty while supporting local communities.
  • Key Features: Tea plantation tours, dairy farm visits, hiking trails, and homestays in farmhouses.
  • Lessons for Phu Tho: Develop agro-tourism products, promote local produce, and create eco-friendly activities that showcase the region’s natural beauty.

5. What are the key elements needed for successful Community-Based Tourism in any region?

Successful community-based tourism (CBT) requires a combination of factors to ensure it benefits both tourists and local communities. These key elements include community involvement, sustainable practices, infrastructure development, and effective marketing.

• Community Involvement and Ownership:
  • Active Participation: Local communities must be actively involved in the planning, development, and management of tourism activities. This ensures that their voices are heard and that tourism benefits are distributed equitably.
  • Empowerment: CBT should empower local communities by providing them with the skills, knowledge, and resources needed to manage tourism activities effectively.
  • Decision-Making: Local communities should have a significant role in decision-making processes related to tourism development, ensuring that their values and priorities are respected.
• Sustainable Practices:
  • Environmental Conservation: CBT should promote environmental conservation by minimizing negative impacts on natural resources and ecosystems. This includes waste management, water conservation, and the protection of biodiversity.
  • Cultural Preservation: CBT should respect and preserve local culture and traditions. This includes promoting traditional arts, crafts, music, and dance, and ensuring that tourism activities do not undermine local values.
  • Economic Sustainability: CBT should be economically viable, providing local communities with sustainable income opportunities. This includes diversifying tourism products, promoting local entrepreneurship, and ensuring fair prices for goods and services.
• Infrastructure Development:
  • Basic Amenities: Access to basic amenities such as clean water, sanitation, and healthcare is essential for successful CBT.
  • Transportation: Good transportation infrastructure is needed to facilitate tourist access to CBT destinations. This includes roads, public transportation, and airport facilities.
  • Accommodation: CBT destinations should offer a range of accommodation options, including homestays, guesthouses, and eco-lodges, that are comfortable, clean, and environmentally friendly.
• Marketing and Promotion:
  • Targeted Marketing: CBT destinations should be marketed to specific target groups, such as cultural tourists, eco-tourists, and adventure travelers.
  • Online Presence: A strong online presence is essential for promoting CBT destinations. This includes a website, social media accounts, and online booking platforms.
  • Partnerships: Collaboration with tour operators, travel agencies, and tourism organizations can help to promote CBT destinations and attract more visitors.

6. How can SIXT.VN support the development of Community-Based Tourism in Phu Tho?

SIXT.VN can play a vital role in supporting the development of community-based tourism (CBT) in Phu Tho by providing convenient travel solutions, promoting local destinations, and ensuring responsible tourism practices.

• Providing Convenient Travel Solutions:
  • Transportation Services: SIXT.VN can offer transportation services to CBT destinations in Phu Tho, making it easier for tourists to access remote and rural areas. This includes airport transfers, private car rentals, and shuttle services.
  • Accommodation Booking: SIXT.VN can partner with local homestays and guesthouses in Phu Tho to offer online booking services. This would provide tourists with a convenient way to find and book accommodations in CBT destinations.
  • Tour Packages: SIXT.VN can create tour packages that include visits to CBT destinations in Phu Tho. These packages can be tailored to meet the needs of different types of tourists, such as cultural tourists, eco-tourists, and adventure travelers.
• Promoting Local Destinations:
  • Online Marketing: SIXT.VN can promote CBT destinations in Phu Tho through its website, social media channels, and email marketing campaigns. This would help to raise awareness of these destinations and attract more visitors.
  • Content Creation: SIXT.VN can create content that showcases the unique cultural heritage and natural beauty of CBT destinations in Phu Tho. This includes blog posts, articles, videos, and photo galleries.
  • Partnerships: SIXT.VN can partner with local tourism organizations and businesses to promote CBT destinations in Phu Tho. This would help to create a unified marketing message and reach a wider audience.
• Ensuring Responsible Tourism Practices:
  • Sustainable Tourism Guidelines: SIXT.VN can promote sustainable tourism practices among its customers and partners. This includes encouraging responsible behavior, minimizing environmental impact, and respecting local culture.
  • Community Engagement: SIXT.VN can support community-led tourism initiatives in Phu Tho by providing funding, training, and technical assistance.
  • Monitoring and Evaluation: SIXT.VN can monitor and evaluate the impact of its activities on CBT destinations in Phu Tho. This would help to ensure that tourism benefits local communities and preserves cultural and natural resources.

7. What are the Potential challenges of implementing CBT in Phu Tho and how to address them?

Implementing community-based tourism (CBT) in Phu Tho, while promising, comes with potential challenges that need careful consideration and proactive solutions. These challenges range from infrastructure limitations and skill gaps to ensuring equitable benefit distribution and managing environmental impacts.

• Infrastructure Limitations:
  • Challenge: Poor road conditions, limited access to clean water and sanitation, and inadequate accommodation facilities in remote areas.
  • Solutions: Advocate for government investment in infrastructure development, seek funding from NGOs and international organizations, and encourage the use of eco-friendly and sustainable construction practices.
• Skill Gaps:
  • Challenge: Lack of training and expertise among local communities in tourism management, hospitality, and marketing.
  • Solutions: Provide training programs and workshops for local residents, partner with tourism schools and universities to offer internships and mentorship opportunities, and encourage knowledge sharing and best practices among CBT initiatives.
• Equitable Benefit Distribution:
  • Challenge: Uneven distribution of tourism revenue among community members, leading to social tensions and resentment.
  • Solutions: Establish clear and transparent guidelines for revenue sharing, prioritize community-led projects and initiatives, and ensure that all community members have opportunities to participate in and benefit from tourism activities.
• Environmental Impacts:
  • Challenge: Increased waste generation, water pollution, and habitat destruction due to tourism activities.
  • Solutions: Implement sustainable waste management practices, promote water conservation, protect sensitive ecosystems, and educate tourists and local communities about responsible environmental behavior.
• Cultural Preservation:
  • Challenge: Loss of cultural authenticity and commodification of traditions due to tourism development.
  • Solutions: Promote cultural awareness and education, encourage the preservation of traditional arts, crafts, and customs, and involve local elders and cultural leaders in tourism planning and management.
• Marketing and Promotion:
  • Challenge: Limited marketing resources and lack of awareness among tourists about CBT destinations in Phu Tho.
  • Solutions: Develop a comprehensive marketing strategy, utilize online platforms and social media to promote CBT destinations, partner with tour operators and travel agencies, and participate in tourism fairs and exhibitions.
• Monitoring and Evaluation:
  • Challenge: Lack of systematic monitoring and evaluation of the social, economic, and environmental impacts of CBT.
  • Solutions: Establish a monitoring and evaluation framework, collect data on key indicators, conduct regular assessments, and use the findings to improve CBT practices and policies.

8. What kind of tourism activities are most suitable for Community-Based Tourism in Phu Tho?

Phu Tho’s rich cultural tapestry and diverse natural landscapes lend themselves to a variety of community-based tourism (CBT) activities that can offer authentic experiences while benefiting local communities.

• Homestay Experiences:
  • Description: Staying with local families in their traditional homes, offering tourists a glimpse into daily life, customs, and cuisine.
  • Suitability: Ideal for immersing in local culture, fostering personal connections, and supporting local economies directly.
  • Example: Staying in a traditional stilt house with a Tay family, participating in daily activities like cooking and farming.
• Cultural Tours and Workshops:
  • Description: Guided tours of local villages, historical sites, and cultural landmarks, combined with hands-on workshops on traditional crafts, music, and dance.
  • Suitability: Perfect for learning about local history, traditions, and artistic expressions, while providing income opportunities for local guides and artisans.
  • Example: Visiting a traditional weaving village, learning about the process of making brocade, and trying your hand at weaving.
• Agro-Tourism Adventures:
  • Description: Engaging in agricultural activities like planting rice, harvesting tea, or tending to orchards, combined with farm-to-table dining experiences.
  • Suitability: Great for connecting with nature, learning about local farming practices, and enjoying fresh, locally sourced food, while supporting local farmers and promoting sustainable agriculture.
  • Example: Spending a day on a tea plantation, learning about tea cultivation and processing, and enjoying a traditional tea ceremony.
• Eco-Tourism Escapades:
  • Description: Hiking, trekking, bird watching, and nature photography in Phu Tho’s scenic landscapes, guided by local experts.
  • Suitability: Excellent for promoting environmental awareness, protecting natural resources, and supporting local guides and conservation efforts.
  • Example: Hiking through Xuan Son National Park, spotting rare bird species, and learning about local flora and fauna from a knowledgeable local guide.
• Festival and Event Tourism:
  • Description: Participating in local festivals, ceremonies, and cultural events, offering tourists a unique and immersive cultural experience.
  • Suitability: Ideal for showcasing local traditions, promoting cultural pride, and generating income for local communities.
  • Example: Attending the Hung Kings Temple Festival, witnessing traditional rituals, and participating in cultural performances.

9. How to ensure that Community-Based Tourism Benefits are distributed fairly?

Ensuring fair distribution of benefits in community-based tourism (CBT) is crucial for its long-term sustainability and positive impact on local communities. Implementing transparent mechanisms, promoting inclusive participation, and prioritizing community-led projects are key strategies.

• Establish Transparent Revenue Sharing Mechanisms:
  • Detailed Accounting: Implement clear and transparent accounting practices to track tourism revenue and expenses. This includes maintaining detailed records of income from accommodations, tours, activities, and other tourism-related services.
  • Community-Managed Funds: Create a community-managed fund to hold tourism revenue. The fund should be managed by a committee consisting of elected community representatives, ensuring accountability and transparency.
  • Revenue Allocation Plan: Develop a revenue allocation plan that outlines how tourism revenue will be distributed among community members. The plan should be based on community needs, priorities, and contributions to tourism activities.
• Promote Inclusive Participation:
  • Equal Opportunities: Ensure that all community members, regardless of gender, ethnicity, or socioeconomic status, have equal opportunities to participate in and benefit from tourism activities.
  • Skill Development: Provide training and capacity building programs to equip community members with the skills and knowledge needed to participate effectively in tourism activities.
  • Fair Wages: Establish fair wage standards for community members employed in tourism-related jobs. Wages should be commensurate with skills, experience, and the value of their contributions.
• Prioritize Community-Led Projects:
  • Community Input: Involve community members in the planning and decision-making processes for tourism-related projects. This ensures that projects align with community needs, priorities, and cultural values.
  • Local Resources: Utilize local resources, materials, and labor for tourism projects. This helps to create local employment opportunities, support local businesses, and reduce reliance on external resources.
  • Community Ownership: Promote community ownership of tourism assets, such as accommodations, restaurants, and tour operations. This ensures that tourism revenue remains within the community and benefits local residents directly.
• Monitoring and Evaluation:
  • Regular Assessments: Conduct regular assessments to monitor the distribution of tourism benefits and identify any disparities or inequities.
  • Feedback Mechanisms: Establish feedback mechanisms to gather input from community members on the effectiveness of benefit distribution mechanisms.
  • Adaptive Management: Use the findings from monitoring and evaluation to adapt and improve benefit distribution mechanisms over time, ensuring that they remain fair, equitable, and sustainable.

10. What resources and support are available for developing Community-Based Tourism in Phu Tho?

Developing community-based tourism (CBT) in Phu Tho can be bolstered by a variety of resources and support from government agencies, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), and international tourism bodies.

• Government Agencies:
  • Department of Culture, Sports and Tourism of Phu Tho: Provides guidance, training, and financial support for CBT initiatives. The department also assists with marketing and promotion efforts.
    • Support Offered: Policy development, funding for infrastructure improvements, training programs for local guides and homestay operators, and marketing assistance.
    • Contact Information: Visit the Phu Tho Province official website for contact details.
  • Vietnam National Administration of Tourism (VNAT): Offers national-level support for sustainable tourism development, including CBT. VNAT provides resources, guidelines, and promotional opportunities for CBT destinations in Vietnam.
    • Support Offered: National tourism policies, marketing campaigns, training programs, and certification standards for sustainable tourism.
    • Website: https://vietnamtourism.gov.vn/
• Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs):
  • SNV Netherlands Development Organisation: Works to improve livelihoods in developing countries, including through sustainable tourism initiatives. SNV provides technical assistance, training, and access to funding for CBT projects.
    • Support Offered: Project planning, community mobilization, skill development, and access to microfinance.
    • Website: https://snv.org/
  • WWF Vietnam: Focuses on environmental conservation and sustainable development. WWF supports CBT initiatives that promote eco-tourism and protect biodiversity.
    • Support Offered: Conservation planning, community engagement, eco-tourism product development, and environmental education.
    • Website: http://vietnam.panda.org/
• International Tourism Bodies:
  • United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO): Provides guidance, technical assistance, and training for sustainable tourism development worldwide. UNWTO offers resources and best practices for CBT development.
    • Support Offered: Tourism policy advice, technical assistance, training programs, and sustainable tourism certification.
    • Website: https://www.unwto.org/
  • Asian Development Bank (ADB): Provides financial and technical assistance for sustainable tourism projects in Asia, including CBT initiatives. ADB offers loans, grants, and technical expertise for infrastructure development and capacity building.
    • Support Offered: Infrastructure financing, technical assistance for project development, and capacity building programs.
    • Website: https://www.adb.org/

SIXT.VN is your trusted partner for exploring community-based tourism in Phu Tho, providing seamless transportation, curated tours, and comfortable accommodations. Contact us today via Hotline/WhatsApp: +84 986 244 358 or visit our website at SIXT.VN, Address: 260 Cau Giay, Hanoi, Vietnam, and let us help you discover the authentic beauty of Phu Tho.

FAQ about Community-Based Tourism in Phu Tho

• What is Community-Based Tourism (CBT)?
  • Community-Based Tourism (CBT) is a sustainable tourism model where local communities have significant involvement and control over tourism development, ensuring they receive a major proportion of the benefits while preserving their culture and environment.
• Why is Phu Tho suitable for Community-Based Tourism?
  • Phu Tho is ideal for CBT due to its rich cultural heritage, diverse ethnic groups, stunning natural landscapes, and historical sites, providing unique opportunities for authentic and immersive tourism experiences.
• What types of activities are common in Community-Based Tourism in Phu Tho?
  • Common activities include homestays with local families, guided tours of villages and historical sites, participation in traditional crafts and agricultural activities, eco-tourism adventures like hiking and bird watching, and involvement in local festivals and events.
• How does Community-Based Tourism benefit local communities in Phu Tho?
  • CBT provides income opportunities, supports cultural preservation, promotes environmental conservation, and empowers local communities by involving them in decision-making processes and ensuring they benefit from tourism revenue.
• How can I ensure my visit supports sustainable tourism in Phu Tho?
  • Choose accommodations and tour operators that prioritize community involvement, respect local culture, minimize environmental impact, and contribute to local economic development.
• What are some examples of successful CBT models that Phu Tho can learn from?
  • Phu Tho can learn from successful models in Sapa, Mai Chau, Hoi An, and Moc Chau, which emphasize community ownership, sustainable practices, cultural preservation, and diversified tourism offerings.
• What challenges might I face when participating in CBT in Phu Tho?
  • Challenges may include limited infrastructure in remote areas, language barriers, and differences in cultural norms, but these can be overcome with proper planning and respect for local customs.
• What role does SIXT.VN play in promoting Community-Based Tourism in Phu Tho?
  • SIXT.VN supports CBT in Phu Tho by providing convenient travel solutions, promoting local destinations through online marketing, and ensuring responsible tourism practices among its customers and partners.
• What resources are available for developing CBT initiatives in Phu Tho?
  • Resources include support from government agencies like the Department of Culture, Sports and Tourism of Phu Tho and VNAT, NGOs like SNV and WWF, and international organizations like UNWTO and ADB.
• How can I book a Community-Based Tourism experience in Phu Tho?
  • You can book CBT experiences through local tour operators, directly with community-run accommodations, or through platforms like SIXT.VN, which partners with local providers to offer curated CBT tours and accommodations.