Ninh Binh one of best places to visit this year: Forbes

Tourists take boat rides through ripen paddy fields in Ninh Binh. Photo: Pham Ngoc Thach

"It’s rising in popularity on social media, so it won’t stay a hidden gem for too long. Go while it still offers a very authentic northern Vietnam experience," Forbes said.

Situated around two hours from Ha Noi, Ninh Binh was home to the ancient capital of Hoa Lu during the reign of the Dinh Dynasty (968-980).

It was overlooked by foreign tourists for years until "Kong: Skull Island" was filmed there, giving the area a global reputation.

Forbes editors recommended tourists rent a bike to travel through rice fields or hike limestone mountains for incredible views.

A two-hour boat tour winding down paddy fields and stunning caves costs VND150,000 ($6.39) and requires at least four passengers for a trip.

Ninh Binh’s special cuisine, mountain goat meat, was also recommended.

"The most famous dishes include goat soup, grilled goat meat with five spices and steamed goat meat with ginger," Forbes said.

Other Asian destinations featured on the list include Kuala Lumpur, Hong Kong and Rajasthan in India.

VnExpress

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