Quang Binh
Geography
Quảng Bình Province is situated in the North Central Coast region of Vietnam, bordered by Hà Tĩnh Province to the north, Quảng Trị Province to the south, Laos to the west, and the East Sea (Gulf of Tonkin) to the east. Covering an area of approximately 8,065.27 square kilometers, the province features a diverse topography that includes mountainous terrains, narrow plains, and a coastline stretching over 116 kilometers. Notably, Quảng Bình is located at the country's narrowest point, with just 40.3 kilometers separating the Laotian border from the East Sea.
Climate
The province experiences a tropical monsoon climate characterized by four distinct seasons:
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Spring (February to April): Warm temperatures ranging from 18°C to 25°C with light rains and high humidity.
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Summer (May to July): Hot and dry conditions, with temperatures reaching up to 35°C to 36°C.
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Autumn (August to October): Cooler weather with temperatures between 22°C and 28°C, accompanied by increased rainfall.
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Winter (November to January): Humid and slightly rainy, with temperatures ranging from 12°C to 16°C.
The annual average precipitation is approximately 2,000 to 2,300 millimeters, with the heaviest rainfall occurring from September to November.
Transportation
Quảng Bình boasts a well-developed transportation infrastructure that includes:
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Airways: Đồng Hới Airport offers flights to major Vietnamese cities such as Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, and Hai Phong.
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Roadways: The province is traversed by National Highway 1A and the Hồ Chí Minh Highway, facilitating north-south travel. Additionally, National Road 12A connects the Hòn La deep-water seaport to the Cha Lo Border Gate Economic Zone on the Laotian border, promoting regional trade.
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Railways: The North-South Railway line runs through Quảng Bình, providing passenger and freight services.
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Seaports: Hòn La Seaport accommodates vessels ranging from 30,000 to 50,000 tonnes, playing a crucial role in maritime trade.
People
As of 2022, Quảng Bình has a population of approximately 913,860 residents. The province is home to 24 ethnic groups, with the Kinh (Vietnamese) being the majority. Other ethnic minorities include the Bru, Chứt, and Tày communities, predominantly residing in mountainous regions. The population distribution is uneven, with over 90% of inhabitants living in about 10% of the provincial land area, primarily in lowland and urban zones.
Culture
Quảng Bình's cultural heritage is a rich tapestry influenced by its history and diverse ethnic composition:
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Historical Significance: The province has been a strategic location throughout Vietnamese history, serving as a frontier during various dynastic periods.
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Festivals: Traditional festivals celebrate local customs, agricultural practices, and historical events, reflecting the province's cultural diversity.
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Cuisine: Quảng Bình offers a variety of local dishes that showcase regional flavors and ingredients, contributing to its unique culinary identity.
Tourism
Tourism is a vital sector in Quảng Bình's economy, with several notable attractions:
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Phong Nha-Kẻ Bàng National Park: A UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2003, the park is renowned for its karst landscapes, extensive cave systems, and rich biodiversity. It includes the Sơn Đoòng Cave, the world's largest known cave.
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Beaches: The province boasts pristine beaches such as Nhật Lệ and Bảo Ninh, offering opportunities for relaxation and water sports.
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Historical Sites: Quảng Bình is home to several historical landmarks, including ancient citadels and war memorials, providing insights into Vietnam's past.
Efforts are ongoing to promote sustainable tourism, balancing economic development with the preservation of natural and cultural resources.
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