(VOVworld) – Cù Lao Chàm or Chàm islands in the central province of Quang Nam has a mild climate all year round and a rich diversity of fauna and flora. Recognized in 2009 by UNESCO as a World Biosphere Reserve, this place is now a tourist attraction in central Vietnam..

Located 20 km east of the ancient town of Hoi An, Cu Lao Chàm in Tan Hiep commune, consists of eight islets: Hòn Lao, Hòn Dài, Hòn Mồ, Hòn Khô mẹ, Hòn Khô con, Hòn Lá, Hòn Tai, and Hòn Ông. The beauty of this island and the warm touch of its inhabitants make it a charming destination for Vietnamese and foreign tourists. The island is reached by canoe or boat from Cửa Đại beach, but tourists often prefer canoe because it takes only 30 minutes. Nguyen Thanh Trung, a tour guide of Cu Lao Cham Tour Company, says."Cu Lao Cham is almost untouched. As a Biosphere Reserve, the site is very well preserved. Locals and tourists are required not to throw plastic bags in the environment. Local people are doing everything possible to make Cu Lao Cham a place of leisure and ideal resort. "

Scuba diving is something that should not be missed once at the site. Tourists are instructed to dive with the help of professional divers. Distributing tourists diving equipment, Thanh Trung gives them an explanation of the corals, algae and fish they can watch while diving."Cu Lao Cham has hundreds of species and coralline algae; red coral has been recorded in the red book . With a little luck, you might catch the blue starfish or orange, sea urchins or sea snails. But should you release them after watching."

What a thrill to touch soft coral reefs by yourself and admire the colorful fish! Coro, a Spanish tourist, feels satisfied."It's great! The scenery is beautiful and the water is clean. We can sun bath. When diving, I could see the fish swimming around me, starfish too. This is very interesting. I really like this trip".

Cu Lao Cham is also well known for its pristine beaches of white sand. Tran Minh Tuan is a member of Cu Lao Cham Management Committee of the site."Bai Ong (Ong beach) and Bai Chong (Chong beach) are the two most beautiful beaches. Bai Chong is more beautiful and has more accommodations. Tourists come to rest or go scuba diving. Cu Lao Cham is popular with tourists because it is a well-preserved biosphere reserve ".

Tourists to Cu Lao Cham are amazed with its primitiveness. Chris Cao, an Australian tourist, is one of them: "It has been fun for us because I've been traveling with friends. It's nice to go to the beach. I feel relaxed now. The food was OK. The island is not well known, but it is beautiful. I will recommend it to my friends".
Living in the heart of nature, discovering the beautiful scenery, enjoying local dishes and sharing with the people are all pleasures that make Cu Lao Cham a prime destination in Vietnam.