Hanoi, March 22 -- Tourism, particularly community-based tourism, has significantly improved both the material and spiritual lives of ethnic minority communities in the northernmost mountainous province of Ha Giang.

From rugged rocky slopes to opportunities for breakthrough

In Ha Giang-where rocks outnumber soil and poverty has gripped ethnic minorities for generations, many once saw migration as the only way to make a living. However, with tourism development, the lives of the Mong, Dao, Tay, and Lo Lo people have changed thanks to developing homestay and tourist services.

Winding mountain roads, "nha trinh tuong' (rammed earth houses) nestled among limestone peaks, bustling markets filled with colourful brocade skirts, and the echoin...