Dien Bien is a province on the North - West of Vietnam, created by a split of the former Lai Chau Province in the early 2004. It is next to Lai Chau, Son La provinces, Laos and China. The province has many mountains stretching along north-west and south-east direction. Muong Thanh Valley is largest one in this region. The topography includes forests, high mountains, narrow valleys, small plains, and springs. Moreover, Dien Bien possesses charming natural scenery such as Pa Khoang Reservoir, Tham Bang Cave, Ban Phu Citadel, and Museum of Dien Bien Phu Victory. It is also proud of many historic sites such as Noong Nhai Vestige, Muong Phang Forest, especially, Dien Bien Phu Vestige with a global well-known victory in 1954. Travelling from Hanoi to Dien Bien Phu which is famous as the site of a battle that was truly decisive will take 1 hour by plane. But by road, travelers go over kilometers of mountainous road and cross Pha Din Pass. The stretch of road goes uphill and downhill alternately with many sharp bends. It is a memorable event for everybody in this superb mountain. Visiting this region also offers the best opportunity to meet and greet people of ethnic-minority hilltribe groups, from the timid White Thai to the gregarious Hmong. There are a number of hotels in Dien Bien Phu with most catering for independent travelers with rooms being basic yet very clean and comfortable and prices very reasonable. Dien Bien Phu hotels will also be able to provide you with details of the best excursions and travel itinerary to explore the surrounding area. Wherever you are in the city, most of the hotels in Dien Bien Phu will act as a convenient base with restaurants, coffee shops and markets conveniently located around the city.