30 households in Phong Nha are offering the homestay service, earning 700 to 1,000 USD each month each and more than 1,500 USD in the peak season. The local administration has made it easier for local people to do the trade. Nguyen Cong Tru is Chairman of the Son Trach Communal People’s Committee: “Homestay service mostly serves foreign tourists and is an easy way for local people to change from farming to tourism. In two years, the number of homestay providers has increased. More and more locals are registering to do this trade.”

The Bo Trach District People’s Committee have each household 750 USD to do get started. Nguyen Huu Hong is Vice Chairman of the Committee: "Homestay service is increasingly popular in Phong Nha. The district administration has helped the locals upgrade their houses, offered free English classes, and showed them how to improve their services.”

Staying with local families helps foreign visitors understand the local culture, customs and daily life. In addition to exploring local caves and scenic spots, visitors also experience such farm activities as ploughing, cultivating, and feeding animals. Nguyen Van Dinh, a local tour guide, taught himself English so he could communicate with homestay guests. “Phong Nha is attracting an increasing number of tourists. We provide the homestay service in our house. In this area, there are rivers, mountains, and many scenic spots to help promote homestay services.”

Phong Nha Ke Bang National Park has twice been recognized by UNESCO as a World Natural Heritage Site. Homestay service will make the destination more appealing to tourists and increase local incomes.