EVALUATING RURAL TOURISM POTENTIAL: A CASE STUDY OF MAI CHAU DISTRICT, HOA BINH PROVINCE

DOI: 10.18173/2354-1067.2025-0026

Abstract

This research evaluates the potential for rural tourism development in Mai Chau District, Hoa Binh Province, by using a multi-criteria evaluation approach combined with Hierarchical Analysis (AHP) and GIS technology. The results show that Mai Chau, a mountainous district of Hoa Binh Province, has great potential for tourism development thanks to its rich natural and cultural resources. Currently, rural tourism has been developed in some communes such as Chieng Chau, Mai Hich, and Hang Kia. Although rural tourism has expanded mainly in recent years, it has a positive impact on the local economy, culture, and community spirit. However, other areas with strong tourism potential still struggle with limited service quality, a lack of diverse products, and poor regional connectivity. Based on the analysis, this study proposes some suggested orientations for the sustainable development of rural tourism in the Mai Chau district, Hoa Binh province.