Lang Co Bay. Photo: Anh Viet

The world’s beautiful bay

In 2009, Vietnam had three bays that joined the Most Beautiful Bays in the World Club: Ha Long, Nha Trang, and Lang Co. Membership in these clubs serves as evidence that these bays meet several criteria: they possess a rich ecological environment with fascinating flora and fauna, exhibit natural beauty and allure, are recognized and evaluated at the national level, are symbolic to the local population, hold economic potential, and meet at least two UNESCO criteria related to culture and nature. From these criteria, it is evident that beautiful bays are invaluable assets, both culturally and economically, owned by the fortunate localities.

Over the years, Ha Long Bay and Nha Trang Bay have become renowned tourist destinations. The stunning landscape of thousands of limestone islands rising like miniature mountains from the sea has become an icon of Vietnam and was even chosen as a backdrop for the Hollywood blockbuster "King Kong." Nha Trang Bay attracts numerous tourists with its allure of beautiful islands, including the famous Vinpearl Resort, scuba diving to observe coral reefs, and breathtaking marine life. These bays have also attracted significant investment in tourism real estate, creating high economic value and employment opportunities for local residents.

However, Lang Co Bay in Hue has taken a slower approach. To this day, Lang Co has preserved its pristine and beautiful scenery. Prominent tourism services mainly focus on two large resorts: Laguna and Vedana. Urban infrastructure remains underdeveloped, and the predominant tourist activities involve immersing oneself in nature. Experience-oriented services such as boat tours, marine museums, and urban amenities are yet to be fully developed, hinting at significant untapped potential. Lang Co still awaits the right approach to becoming an economic and social development anchor for Thua Thien Hue.

Respecting nature

To ensure the sustainability of natural resources in Lang Co, an approach to bay exploitation must prioritize the preservation of the ecosystem and environment. Activities should aim for a balanced and sustainable experience. Viewing the exploitation of Lang Co Bay through the lens of beautiful bays means providing people and tourists with the full experience of the area's natural value while preserving the sustainability of its natural resources.

Firstly, suitable options for sightseeing and immersion in the beautiful scenery must be provided. Lang Co offers tranquil and safe coastal areas with expansive white sandy beaches, making it an ideal location for beach activities and water sports. The Hon Chao area, with its coral reefs and diverse marine life, should offer limited-access experiences. The aerial view of Lang Co Bay is stunning; so; to enhance the tourist experience with new options, it is beneficial to build high vantage points, boat tours, hot air ballooning, parachuting, and cable cars. Thua Thien Hue Province boasts a long coastline, making it suitable for establishing a marine ecosystem museum to serve local residents and tourists.

Secondly, the richness of the cuisine and seafood must be fully realized to engage consumers of various budgets. Consumers should be able to experience various culinary styles, from affordable local specialties to high-end dining, in diverse settings, whether it is by the beach, on cliffs, or on boats.

Thirdly, accommodation services along the coastal areas need to be adequately planned to enable guests to enjoy the beauty of Lang Co at night and witness the sunrise.

Lastly, activities related to the daily life of the people of Lang Co, such as rowing boats, fishing, aquaculture, and handicrafts, should be organized to facilitate tourists' access.

Lang Co Bay is a priceless asset of the province, harboring the rare beauty of nature. The people of Hue in particular, and the world's tourists, in general, aspire to get closer to this beauty.