Dr. Chris Bottrill, Dean, Capilano University presents to PATA in Beijing

Just days ago, Dr. Chris Bottrill (Capilano Universities Dean of Tourism and CBT Viet Nam's Project Director) presented on the CBT Viet Nam project-to-date in Beijing, China. Scheduled for two presentations, Chris presented to a welcoming and enthusiastic PATA Board, and then at the PATA Gala Dinner in the grand ballroom of the Raffles Beijing Hotel. The delegates in attendance (approximately 300) were very responsive to the presentation. Included in the audience were big names such as: CEO of PATA, Terry Francis, former Chair, the new Chair, CEO's and senior management of many of PATA's member organizations and companies, and Miss Somoa, the face of PATA.

Exciting stuff!

Here are some pictures below.

Breakthroughs on March Trip

With the March training trip coming to a close, the Capilano University and Hanoi Open University volunteer students and faculty have had time to reflect on a very successful mission into the Sa Pa villages.

Some of the positives include:

• Outstanding work and initiative by student volunteers Jase, Kyla, (CapU) and Nga (HOU)!
• Overwelming support by the locals; government; private sector; and Sapa Sport, Tourism and Culture!
• True Vietnamese hospitality at every turn!

Some village and project breakthroughs that must be noted:

• Ta Phin village local government and CBT Board have come up with a tourism mission statement and a set of objectives for tourism development.
• Homestay owners have come together in a co-operative marketing initiative. A familiarization (FAM) trip for Sa Pa tour operators is planned for May.
• Local entrepreneurs and small business owners take the lead in making signage for thier businesses and business ideas. And they are in English!
• Ta Phin street-sellers participated ina mock market demonstration.
• Lao Cai community has responded to the Homestay training by doubling, then almost tripling the class size.
• Ta Phin community has made community-led conclusions on a proposal for a Community, Tourism and Culture House.
• Local and Regional government supports Capilao University and the Ta Phin's proposal!

Here are a couple of pictures from the trip:

Check out more pictures at www.cbtvietnam.com!

Great work team!