Ninh Binh Province, Vietnam

Boat ride to admire the beauty of Ninh Binh in northern Vietnam with Mr.Hotsia

When talking about provinces that impressed me, Mr.Hotsia, in northern Vietnam, “Ninh Binh” is a name that must be considered one of the must-visit destinations at least once. The feeling of traveling to this province is unlike anywhere else. It’s like stepping into a natural painting that still preserves the pristine limestone mountains and small rivers flowing through vast rice fields as far as the eye can see.

I arrived in Ninh Binh early in the morning when the weather was still comfortably cool. The sky was clear, and the air was fresh, not hot and stuffy like what I experienced in provinces like Lang Son.Lang Sonwhich I visited several years ago. Although it is also in the north, the atmosphere and nature of Ninh Binh are distinctly unique.

How to travel and explore Ninh Binh

If anyone has seen photos or videos I shared on YouTube, you will notice that traveling here mainly relies on rowing boats because most tourist spots are located along rivers and limestone caves hidden in nature. The boat slowly takes you through ever-changing scenery, including towering limestone mountains and lush green rice fields on both sides.

For me, riding a boat along the river feels like experiencing the local life up close. Sometimes I see children playing in the water, sometimes locals rowing boats to work. It’s a rare sight these days and a charm I want everyone to experience themselves.

Stop to taste local food at markets and roadside eateries

After a fulfilling boat ride, I, Mr.Hotsia, did not miss exploring the local market to taste authentic Vietnamese food. There are small roadside restaurants serving grilled cuttlefish and Vietnamese-style chicken biryani, which I have recorded in my videos.Vietnamese Grilled CuttlefishandVietnamese Chicken BiryaniEach dish I tasted was full of rich flavors and the freshness of locally sourced ingredients.

The atmosphere in Ninh Binh market is lively from early morning, with locals selling fresh fruits, vegetables, and traditional foods. I believe that walking through a fresh market like this is one of the best ways to learn about the culture and lifestyle of the people here.

Connecting travel to nearby provinces

If anyone plans to continue traveling to other provinces in northern Vietnam, I recommend checking the route from Ninh Binh to Lang Son.Lang Sonwhich I have described in a previous article. Lang Son has high mountains and beautiful nature just as impressive, and it is also an important gateway for travel to the Chinese border.

Tips for beginner travelers

I, Mr.Hotsia, would like to suggest that when visiting Ninh Binh, you should prepare well for traveling by rowing boat because sometimes the number of boats is limited and advance booking is recommended, especially during the high season. Also, prepare sun protection clothing, hats, and drinking water because although the daytime weather is not too hot, it can still be tiring.

For accommodation, I chose to stay at a small hotel in the city center, which is convenient for traveling and finding roadside food. There is also a bicycle rental service to comfortably explore the city and rice fields for those who enjoy outdoor activities.

Summary of experience in Ninh Binh

Ninh Binh is not only a province with beautiful nature but also full of warm local life and the charm of authentic northern Vietnamese culture. I, Mr.Hotsia, recommend everyone to experience it themselves to see a perspective different from casual tourism that many may have seen through general media.

If you enjoy travel focused on real experiences, love learning about culture, and want to immerse yourself in nature at a relaxed pace, Ninh Binh is a province you should not miss. And if you like my style of travel articles, don’t forget to check out other articles such asBuddhist Temples in Da Lat CityorNha Trang Sea Beachwhich I have also recorded.

For those interested in seeing clear footage of Ninh Binh’s atmosphere, I have videos recorded from my actual trip.Ninh Binh Province, VietnamI guarantee you will see the full beauty and sincerity of this province.