Gia Trang Heian Homestay, a unique cultural oasis in the heart of Hoa Binh city, has become a compelling attraction for tourists seeking ethnic cultural experiences within an urban setting. Bui Thi Hien, a local in Kim Boi district with aspiration for ethnic culture and community-based tourism development, created the homestay that seamlessly blends traditional and contemporary features.
Bui Thi Hien (R) is making room to welcome
guests.
After
graduating from the Hanoi Tourism College, Hien committed herself to creating a
space where visitors could experience Muong cultural treasures that might
otherwise fade into obscurity.
Hien
said that she wants to popularise local culture among people from far and wide,
helping them have a deeper insight into the nature and people here. Most stilt
houses at Giang Trang Heian are ancient Muong and Thai structures that her
family purchased and modified to meet current needs while maintaining their
cultural values.
More
than just accommodations in a refreshing green environment, the homestay
provides immersive cultural activities including chung cake wrapping, con
throwing games, bamboo dancing, gong performances, and traditional Muong folk
singing. Additionally, it offers multiple tourism services, allowing guests to
explore the province’s natural beauty, history, and culture.
Quynh
Anh, a tourist from Ho Chi Minh City, said beyond accommodation, the unique
cultural experiences and shared knowledge about local epics were memorable
highlights of his Hoa Binh trip.
According
to CNTraveller, Hoa Binh is Vietnam's sole representative among the world's 71
most beautiful destinations, celebrated for its natural landscapes and
distinctive cultural experiences.
Gia
Trang Heian Homestay stands as a testament to the province’s flourishing
community-based tourism development, offering an ideal retreat for those
seeking relaxation with cultural and natural exploration.
With effective business operations, significant increases in the number of visitors at weekends and on public holidays, and being listed among the 71 most beautiful places to visit worldwide by the prestigious US travel magazine Condé Nast Traveller, Hoa Binh’s tourism is "spreading its wings" on its journey towards the targets of welcoming 4.9 million visitors, including 1 million foreigners, and achieving total tourism revenue of 5.4 trillion VND (211.89 million USD) in 2025.
On February 21, the Provincial People's Committee held a conference to implement the tourism plan in 2025 and meet with tourism businesses operating in the province. The event was chaired by Mr. Nguyen Van Toan, the Standing Vice Chairman of the Provincial People's Committee and the Head of the Provincial Tourism Steering Committee.
Tien Pagoda is located in the valley of Lao Noi and Lao Ngoai villages, Phu Nghia commune, Lac Thuy district; it is surrounded by two mountain ranges stretching like two giant dragons reaching for the blue sky. Every year, when spring comes, thousands of Buddhists and tourists from all over the country make a pilgrimage to Tien Pagoda. The relic complex of Tien Pagoda is ranked as a national relic by the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism with 21 relic sites of many types: historical and cultural relics, scenic relics, and archaeological relics.
Cao Phong has paid due attention to developing tourism, creating impetus for socio-economic development towards completing the targets set in the resolution of the district’s 28th Party Congress for the 2020-2025 tenure.
A great number of visitors have flocked to tourist attractions in Hoa Binh province in the first lunar month every year to admire the beautiful scenery, fully enjoy the spring atmosphere, and immerse themselves in the festive atmosphere in many localities.
In recent times, Cao Phong District, Hoa Binh Province has focused on promoting tourism development, attracting visitors, and contributing to socio-economic growth.