Blue attractions exploring the impact of marine conservation initiatives on transformative travel decisions to vietnam

Abstract

In the context of increasing global awareness of the ocean crisis, marine environmental education is gradually becoming an attractive content in transformative travel programs – an innovative tourism concept, including the concepts of student exchange, academic tourism or learning experiences to promote change in perceptions, skills, human relationships and self-development. This study aims to examine the factors that attract international students to Vietnam to engage in learning experiences related to the marine environment through transformative tourism programs. Vietnam, known for its extensive coastline, diverse marine ecosystems and many academic programs associated with marine conservation. By using a systematic literature review method on databases such as Google Scholar, EBSCO and ScienceDirect, the authors identified 50 suitable studies, combined with keyword analysis using VOSviewer software. The results indicate that, although there are many studies that address international student exchange and sustainable development, the number of studies that specifically focus on marine environmental conservation is very limited. In addition, the authors discovered a noteworthy paradox: while international students contribute to spreading awareness about sustainability, their increasing mobility can also have a negative impact on the environment sustainability. Research purpose: The study examines how marine conservation programs affect international students’ decisions to study in Vietnam. It focuses on linking academic learning with fieldwork and community activities to build sustainable behavior. 1. Introduction Research motivation: Environmental decline increases the need to include conservation in education. Vietnam’s long coastline creates a strong base for such programs. Few studies explore this link, creating a clear gap to address. Research design, approach, and method: A systematic literature review was done using ScienceDirect, EBSCO, and Google Scholar. The PRISMA process and VOSviewer software were used to identify patterns and gaps. Main findings: Marine conservation is rarely part of exchange programs. Students value sustainability but global travel increases emissions. Well designed programs that mix theory, practice, and reflection improve learning and behavior. Practical/managerial implications: Schools and tourism units in Vietnam should create low-emission programs, link students with local communities, and use simple digital tools to support sustainable learning.