The popular tourist destination of the Cham Islands in the central province of Quang Nam has been connected to national power grid since September.
It is the result of a VND485 billion (USD21.5 million) power supply project signed between the provincial people’s committee and Vietnam Electricity (EVN).
Cham Islands, a popular tourist destination in Quang Nam Province
The access to the national grid makes the islanders very happy, particularly owners of restaurants and hotels who can now benefit from the increased number of travellers.
Duong Thi Anh, ower of Thu Trang guesthouse, said she had bought five air conditioners as part of the upgraded services.
Since the electricity was provided, her guesthouse had attracted more travellers.
Nguyen Thi Ngon, owner of a small restaurant in the islands, said that her family planned to invest VND350 million on expanding the restaurant.
“Earlier, without the electricity, local residents had to use power generators, which were among factors discouraging visitors. Now, people are very happy with the electricity. Many households have invested into upgrading their houses to serve tourists,” Ngon said.
Dozens of vessels are transporting electrical products to the islands.
Located 15 kilometres of the shore of Cua Dai Beach in Hoi An City, the Cham Islands consist of eight small islands and a UNESCO-recognised Biosphere Reserve.
The islands have a population of nearly 2,550 people living in four villages who live off aquatic farming and tourism.
The islands welcome more than 50,000 tourist arrivals annually.
