Located to the northwest of Hanoi, the mountainous province of HoaBinh offers interesting experiences for tourists with picturesque stilthouses and the hospitality of local people.

Dubbed as the cradleof the ancient Muong ethnic group, Hoa Binh boasts nearly 200historical relic sites and landscapes, of which 64 have been givenprovincial and national statuses.

In addition, more than 50villages and hamlets in the locality have been highly appreciated fortheir community-based tourism potential.

Notably, Mai Chau district was named as one of the top ten incredible places for cultural tours by US Business Insider.

“Just three hours outside of the capital Hanoi , Mai Chau is amountainous region dotted with traditional stilt houses. Two ethnicminority groups - the White Thai and Black Thai - make up the majorityof the population there,” Business Insider reported.

The Business Insider suggested the best way to immerse yourself in the region is through a homestay with local families.

The province is home to the Muong, Thai, Tay , Dao and Mong people, who live harmoniously with rich cultural values.

About 12km from the centre of Hoa Binh city, Giang Mo hamlet inBinh Thanh commune, Cao Phong district, is popular among foreigntourists.

Here, the stilt houses of the Muong people are themain attraction, with nearly 100 houses remains preserved despite upsand downs.

Such facilities and tools as water pipes, ricemortars, crossbows and farming tools, plus festivals and traditionalpractices offer new interesting experiences for tourists.

Visitors can go farther to Cu hamlet in Tu Ne commune, Tan Lac district and Thau hamlet in Lac Sy commune, Yen Thuy district.-VNA