Not as noisy and bustling as many other tourist destinations during the holidays, Ninh Binh has a peaceful and quiet pace of life, just like the thousand-year history of the land that was once the first capital of Dai Co Viet. To have such order and tranquility is the result of careful and professional preparation by local authorities, service businesses and people.

Many weeks before the April 30 and May 1 holidays, accommodation establishments, tourist attractions, restaurants, and cafes in Hoa Lu city - where tourism activities are most strongly developed - have been "winding up" to prepare to welcome guests.

Ms. Pham Lan Huong, Head of Tourism Department, Thung Nham Eco-tourism Area said: We have built a plan to welcome tourists half a month ago. In which, 100% of the force is mobilized to be ready to be on duty and supplement other departments during peak days. The security department alone arranges more than 50 people to ensure traffic safety conditions, maximum security and order for tourists.

In addition, nearly 30 electric vehicles, fire prevention and fighting equipment, and entrance and exit systems were also checked. The reception and kitchen staff were doubled compared to normal days. With the initiative, on the first day of the holiday, the resort welcomed tens of thousands of visitors thoughtfully and safely.

Similarly, at Trang An Eco-tourism Area, services are also constantly upgraded: electronic ticketing system, signs in three languages, mobile applications to help visitors look up information and book services are all deployed synchronously. In addition, the improvement of culture and civilization in communication and behavior continues to be followed and well implemented by officers, employees, and boat drivers.

Ms. Dang Thi Tuong, Truong Yen commune, Hoa Lu city - who has been a boat rower in Trang An for more than 15 years said: “These days, I usually arrive at the tourist area from 5 am to prepare the boat, life jackets and help the women in the cleaning team. When transporting guests, I always try to tell them stories about the culture and history of this place... so that they can understand and love this land more. There are many foreign guests, even though there is a language barrier, just seeing them smile and take pictures makes me happy.”

It is easy to see in every small detail, from the spacious parking lot; to the free water bottles placed at the entrance to the tourist attractions; the sun umbrellas; or the team of volunteers, security guards, and tourism staff ready to guide and support guests at the entrance gate... All show the spirit of "welcoming guests like welcoming relatives" of the people of the ancient capital Hoa Lu.

Ms. Do Thi Len, owner of a restaurant on Trang An Street, Hoa Lu City, shared: “I always remind the staff that everyone has different tastes, so it is impossible to please everyone. However, the price must be clear, the quality must be clean, and the service must always be friendly, like serving family members, so as not to affect the general image of Ninh Binh people and tourism.”

It is the careful preparation and thoughtfulness, cultural behavior of Ninh Binh people that has contributed to bringing satisfaction to tourists when enjoying the services here. In the crowded flow of people pouring into Hoa Lu these days, it is not difficult to see the satisfied smiles of tourists.

Mr. Mark Evans (British tourist), who came to Ninh Binh for the first time, shared: “What impressed me the most was the kindness. At the restaurant, my child dropped a spoon, the owner immediately ran to get a new one, and coaxed him like a family member. A tour guide helped us find our lost phone while walking around. They are very friendly and hospitable.”

The fact that Ninh Binh was once again honored as one of the ten most hospitable cities in Vietnam by authentic global assessments at the end of April is no coincidence. It is the result of a process of building a tourism brand based on the culture, history and especially the people of the ancient capital of a thousand years of civilization.

From businesses that seriously invest in service quality, increasing cultural experiences; to each person doing tourism with sincerity and kindness; all together create a healthy, friendly, trustworthy tourism environment. This brand makes the journey to Hoa Lu during the April 30 holiday not only a sightseeing trip, but also a journey to find peaceful, simple things in everyday life.

It can be said that in the context of tourism with a lot of competition, the hospitality and friendliness of the people is one of the simple and extremely effective ways to affirm the tourism brand of that land.

Hoa Lu city these days not only has the beauty of heroic history, beautiful nature with many attractive and unique activities, but this place is also marked by the hospitality and dedicated service spirit of the local people.