Boutique Homestay Boom Transforms Đà Lạt's Ward 3 Into Tourism Hotspot
Once-Quiet Residential Area Now Hub for Travelers
Ward 3 in Đà Lạt has undergone a dramatic transformation over the past two years, with more than 40 boutique homestays opening in the neighborhood between Yersin Street and the slopes leading toward Langbiang Mountain. The influx of small-scale accommodation providers has turned the formerly quiet residential area into one of the city's fastest-growing tourism zones.
According to data from the Lâm Đồng Department of Tourism, Ward 3 now accounts for nearly 18% of Đà Lạt's total homestay inventory, up from just 7% in early 2024. The ward's proximity to popular attractions like Trúc Lâm Zen Monastery and Tuyền Lâm Lake, combined with lower property costs compared to the city center, has attracted a wave of young entrepreneurs.
Local Residents Voice Mixed Reactions
"Three years ago, this was just houses and families," said Nguyễn Thị Lan, 58, who has lived on Đoàn Thị Điểm Street for 30 years. "Now every other house is a homestay. It's good for business, but the traffic and noise have changed our neighborhood completely."
The Ward 3 People's Committee reported receiving 23 complaints about noise and parking violations in January alone, compared to just five complaints during the same month in 2024. Vice Chairman Trần Minh Tuấn acknowledged the challenges but emphasized the economic benefits.
"Ward 3 has created approximately 320 new jobs in the hospitality sector since 2024," Tuấn said during a community meeting last week. "We're working on guidelines to balance tourism development with quality of life for long-term residents."
Young Entrepreneurs Lead the Wave
Among the new business owners is 29-year-old Phạm Hồng Anh, who opened "Dalat Hillside Home" on Lê Hồng Phong Street in October 2025. Her six-room property features floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking pine forests and emphasizes sustainable tourism practices.
"Guests want authentic experiences, not just hotels," Anh explained. "Ward 3 offers that village feeling while still being close to Xuân Hương Lake and the night market. We're fully booked most weekends."
Infrastructure Concerns Mount
The rapid growth has strained local infrastructure. Residents report frequent water pressure issues during peak tourist season, and the narrow streets struggle to accommodate increased vehicle traffic. The city's Department of Construction is currently reviewing zoning regulations for Ward 3, with new restrictions on homestay density expected to be announced in March 2026.
Despite the challenges, tourism officials project Ward 3's homestay sector will continue expanding, with an estimated 15-20 additional properties in development stages.