Growing trend of volunteer tourism

Warm journeys

In early winter, the biting cold of the highlands seeped through every roof in Son La province. In this weather, the “Warm Clothes for Children 2025” journey organized by Vietravel Hai Phong delivered warm gifts to local students.

Gift bags containing warm clothes, blankets, shoes, and school supplies were personally handed to children at Chieng Xuan Kindergarten – Primary – Junior High School in Chieng Son commune, creating a lively and moving atmosphere. The volunteer group of nearly 50 members from Vietravel Hai Phong and other donors traveled almost 400 km from Hai Phong to Son La to carry out this annual “Warm Clothes for Children” activity.

The trip provided practical gifts to over 60 students, mostly disadvantaged Hmong children. Beyond sharing love and care, the journey reflects a clear change in how Hai Phong travelers choose experiences. Whereas in the past, beach resorts or sightseeing tours dominated, in recent years, trips that combine volunteer work have attracted increasing participation.

“I have been on many trips, but this is the first time I have felt a journey to be so meaningful. Seeing the eager eyes of the children firsthand made me realize that sometimes tourism is not just about sightseeing, but also about giving,” said Nguyen Van Thang, a traveler in the group.

In Hai Phong, many travel companies such as Hai Ha Travel and Binh Minh Travel have included volunteer trips to Tuyen Quang, Dien Bien, Lao Cai, and other provinces. These tours stand out because besides exploring highland landscapes, travelers have opportunities to meet and share with local people. Prices for such volunteer tours are often subsidized by travel companies, ranging from more than 2 million to 3 million VND depending on the route.

Mai Xuan Thang, Chairman of the Hai Phong Tourism Association, noted that volunteer tourism aligns well with the city’s sustainable tourism development orientation. This is not a temporary trend but one expected to grow strongly in the coming years. Travelers seek trips rich in experiences, with value for the community and a lasting impression.

Spreading humanitarian value

In recent years, volunteer activities have increasingly become a distinctive feature of Hai Phong’s tourism culture. From travel companies to spontaneous volunteer groups, many journeys to disadvantaged areas are continuously organized, especially during winter.

According to the Hai Phong Tourism Association, the growth of volunteer tourism positively contributes to the city’s sustainable tourism goals. Beyond supporting communities, these activities help travelers better understand the cultural and social diversity of different regions, encouraging sharing and civic responsibility.

This trend is expected to continue expanding in the coming years, with destinations such as Son La, Tuyen Quang, Lao Cai, and Dien Bien becoming ideal choices for experience- and volunteer-based tours.

When journeys go beyond exploration to connect people, tourism becomes a bridge for compassion. Through such trips, the image of Hai Phong residents as caring, responsible, and generous is spread more strongly than ever.

THU HANG