SOCIAL CAPITAL FACTOR IN AGRICULTURAL TOURISM DEVELOPMENT – THE CASE OF CHIM ISLET, TRA VINH PROVINCE

Abstract

The development of tourism is being seen as an opportunity for economic development for many localities around the world, especially in rural areas where agricultural activities are struggling and farmers' incomes are declining. In Vietnam, in the case of Con Chim, Tra Vinh province, tourism activities here are oriented towards exploiting agricultural factors, rural landscape, and life of rural communities.

Qualitative research methodology, through field surveys and in-depth interviews on three times in 2020, 2021 and 2022. The results show that social capital plays an important role in the development of agricultural tourism in Con Chim through three main aspects: mutual trust in the community, easy smooth exchange and effective social network.

Local communities and households involved in tourism have a close-knit relationship with high levels of mutual trust. Local residents frequently communicate and exchange information easily. Along with an efficient social network, households have accompanied researchers, local authorities, and tourism companies in the process of forming ideas, connecting with markets, and developing tourism in the area. The social capital factor has helped to create an attractive, sustainable destination in the area.