Nestled in a valley surrounded by limestone mountains, Tan Hoa Village is often referred to as the flood center of Quang Binh in central Vietnam.
Following heavy rains brought by Storm Soulik last week, 418 homes in the village were submerged, with water levels rising between 1.5 and 2 meters.
The village lies about 75 kilometers from Son Doong Cave, the world’s largest cave, located in Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park.
In 2023, the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) honored Tan Hoa as "The Best Tourism Village in the World" for its preservation and promotion of rural, community-based values, products, and lifestyles, with a strong emphasis on innovation and sustainability.
Hundreds of houses at the foot of the mountains were submerged, with some homes almost completely underwater, their roofs barely visible above the flood.
Since the historic flood in 2010, Tan Hoa’s residents have adapted to floods and climate change by constructing green-roofed floating houses.
These floating houses, now also used as homestays, provide a unique tourist experience in a flood-prone village, generating additional income for locals.
Before the floodwaters rise, Tan Hoa residents would move their belongings to the floating houses to avoid damage.
Nguyen Chau My, deputy general director of leading tour operator Oxalis, said that during the flood season, the village's floating houses still welcome tourists as usual.
In recent years, these homes have served as accommodation for both international and domestic visitors.
Prior to the floods, villagers move their livestock, such as cattle and buffalo, to higher ground. Even ducks have their own floating enclosures to keep them safe during the flood season.
Truong Thanh Duan, chairman of Tan Hoa Commune, said the village now has 600 floating houses that rise with the water levels.
