Hoa Binh means peace and it can seem pretty peaceful arriving in this gateway to the northwest after surviving the suburbs of Hanoi

It’s the capital of Hoa Binh province, a region that is home to many hill-tribe people, including the H’mong and Thai. Locals have adopted modern Vietnamese garb, but some Montagnards venture into the town’s market. Hoa Binh is a handy stop on the road to Mai Chau, but most visitors don’t stay overnight.

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