Within the serene and verdant grounds of Mekong Silt Ecolodge, visitors will encounter familiar scenes: mat weaving, rattan weaving, and traditional baking... These activities take place every day, as an integral part of the resort's offerings. Ms. Huynh Thi Bich Tuyen, the owner of Mekong Silt Ecolodge, stated, "Currently, many international tourists have a tendency to explore local labor practices and culture. I believe that traditional craft villages represent the essence of our nation and have always dreamt of revitalizing and developing these villages. In the past, our craft village products were only sold as accompanying items, but now I want to incorporate them into tourism as a way to enhance their value and create employment opportunities for workers. Simultaneously, this contributes to preserving the craft villages, showcasing the cultural beauty to visitors, especially international guests."

Integrating craft villages into tourism poses challenges, particularly in terms of human resources. Artisans specializing in traditional handicrafts such as mat weaving, basketry, hammock making, or basket weaving are not easily found, especially those skilled in ancient crafts. However, the team at Mekong Silt Ecolodge persistently seeks knowledge and learns from experienced locals across the Mekong Delta provinces, bringing back the craft village model. The staff at Mekong Silt Ecolodge is dedicated, passionate, and genuinely loves their craft. Among them is Truong Thanh Quyen (from Kien Giang), a graduate in Vietnamese Studies, who has been with Mekong Silt Ecolodge for the past three years since the resort's inception. Truong Thanh Quyen is primarily responsible for organizing workshop programs on craft villages and local cuisine. She shared, "I studied culture and have a deep love for indigenous culture, so wherever there is something valuable, I learn and then apply it to tourism. With regard to craft villages, I learn and acquire practical skills from local artisans and then apply them to tourism with a wider range of products."

At Mekong Silt Ecolodge, the products created are a blend of tradition and modernity, specifically with regard to rattan. In addition to the usual baskets, creative applications have been explored, resulting in rattan carpets, placemats, rattan sandals, and even charming handbags and earrings. These practical applications of rattan products within the resort include table runners and dining table decorations. With over 20 different designs available, these products can be incorporated into various tourism and beautification activities. Mrs. Huynh Thi Bich Tuyen stated, "In addition to traditional designs, we conduct our own research to innovate and enhance the value of craft village products. The utilization of rattan products in tourism aligns well with the green and environmentally friendly travel trend. Therefore, we also aim to produce a large quantity of these products to supply accommodation establishments and tourism businesses, all working towards the common goal of eco-friendly, green, and sustainable tourism."

The creatively crafted rattan products at Mekong Silt Ecolodge have garnered considerable favor among visitors, particularly the baskets and rattan earrings, which are frequently purchased as souvenirs. This also serves as an idea for meaningful gift items, allowing guests to both experience and take home a keepsake.

In reality, the integration of craft villages into tourism not only provides additional experiences for tourists but also contributes to creating employment opportunities for the local community. Ms. Pham Thi Bich Trieu, a resident of Nhon Nghia commune, Phong Dien district, who worked at Mekong Silt Ecolodge for a period of time, shared, "I used to make cakes, but now I work in tourism. Here, I have the opportunity to interact with many people, and the cake-making profession becomes better known. Occasionally, I also learn basket weaving and mat weaving with others, which brings both employment and the joy of acquiring new skills." Mrs. Huynh Thi Bich Tuyen candidly expressed, "In reality, sustainable tourism requires systematic investment, qualified human resources, and quality products, but it also necessitates the synergy of local factors and the collective efforts of the community. This is also the goal and strategy of Mekong Silt Ecolodge towards green and sustainable tourism."