Morning lake view at Xuân Hương Lake in Đà Lạt City, Lâm Đồng Province. The province has launched a pilot smoke‑free tourism model to enhance visitor experiences, safeguard public health, and advance its vision of green, sustainable travel. — Photo courtesy of Nguyễn Tuấn Dũng

LÂM ĐỒNG — Lâm Đồng Province, home to the tranquil city of Đà Lạt, has launched a pilot model of smoke-free tourism across several service areas and destinations, aiming to improve visitor experience, protect public health and support its vision of green, sustainable tourism.

Nguyễn Văn Lộc, Director of the provincial Department of Culture, Sports and Tourism, said the programme reinforces enforcement of tobacco harm-prevention regulations while raising awareness among residents, businesses and tourists of the benefits of a clean, smoke-free environment.

The pilot is being implemented at 10 tourist sites, accommodation facilities and restaurants.

Measures include installing no-smoking signs, designating smoke-free zones and strengthening communication with visitors and staff about the risks associated with tobacco use.

Public outreach is also being expanded through media coverage, social networks, posters and leaflets, particularly during annual campaigns marking World No Tobacco Day on May 31 and National No Tobacco Week from May 25 to 31.

MerPerle Dalat Hotel has already adopted the smoke-free model and received positive feedback from guests. In 2025, it was recognised as an exemplary smoke-free accommodation facility by the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism in collaboration with the Tobacco Harm Prevention Fund.

A hotel representative said maintaining a smoke-free environment has helped improve service quality, making the property more attractive to international visitors and families with young children.

While initial challenges arose due to established smoking habits, most guests showed understanding and cooperation once the benefits were explained.

Võ Thành Huy, Deputy Director of Lâm Đồng’s Department of Culture, Sports and Tourism, said smoke-free tourism is not only about regulations but also about changing public awareness and habits to build a modern and civilised tourism culture.

As global tourism trends shift towards greener and more sustainable models, smoke-free destinations are increasingly seen as a factor in strengthening competitiveness, particularly in leisure and wellness destinations such as Đà Lạt.

Looking ahead, Lâm Đồng plans to encourage broader participation from businesses and gradually expand the model. The province aims to develop a green and safe tourism ecosystem, contributing to a friendly and modern image for visitors. — VNS