VietNamNet Bridge – Containing a number of archetypal ancient Vietnamese houses and reflecting a distinct variety of architectural styles and influences, Mui Ne Ancient Village in central Binh Thuan Province is considered to be one of the country’s most attractive tourist destinations, reflecting the nation’s rich history and unique culture.

Foreign tourists and domestic visitors alike consider Mui Ne an ideal summer holiday destination.

Many foreign tourists are surprised at the village’s unique beauty which bears the unmistakable hallmark of the Orient. Trinh Van, an overseas Vietnamese who lives in the Czech Republic, considered the village a valuable collection of contrasting architectural styles.

Bui Van Giao, the village’s owner, revealed that he had travelled for years around Vietnam’s central region to look for ancient houses to fulfill his dream of creating a place for tourists to reflect on the history and origins of the nation.

He announced that, this year, his village will unveil another three houses, reflecting the architecture and homes of the Thai, Ba Na and Ede ethnic minorities, as well as models depicting the daily lives and activities of their ancient inhabitants.

As well as contemplating the beauty of these historic houses, visitors also have the chance to enjoy the delicious local seafood and a range of traditional Vietnamese dishes, he added.

Located on the artery road leading to the Mui Ne eco-tourism resort, the village makes an important contribution to the special character and unique charm of the Mui Ne area, which has been called the “resort capital” of Vietnam.

According to the Binh Thuan provincial Department of Culture, Sports and Tourism, Mui Ne has around 50 high-end resorts set along beautiful beaches and surrounded by landscape such as the Mui Ne sand hill and the Earth God boulders.

The number of visitors to Mui Ne has continuously increased over recent years. Foreign tourists and domestic visitors alike consider Mui Ne an ideal summer holiday destination.

During 2008, Mui Ne received more than 195,000 international tourists, representing a year-on-year increase of 11.4 percent. The visitors came predominantly from Russia, the Netherlands, Canada, the UK and Australia.

This year, they expect to welcome 2.2 million tourists, including 200,000 overseas visitors.

VietNamNet/VNA