Someone may say Sapa is very busy and not interesting to visit. This may be because you have not touched its authentic and rich culture in its villages, for which I love and decide to live here. Some of my observations for your planning a great trip:

 

ENJOY THE AUTHENTIC LOCALS

There are many things to explore besides trekking in the village with the rice terraces. You can also trek and hike in the forest, admire the great waterfall, see the cardamon fields (a special spice), and understand the forest life culture that strongly connects with the local people. You can explore the wild herbs with a local healer, learn how it is used in their life, and enjoy the medicinal bath from such herbs for a great experience. When I went far to give away books and clothes to schools and villages which is 30-40km from the town, I see how landscape and life is different on the way. I have a wider view about Sapa and its people and I can explain so many “why” between city-village, Kinh people-ethnic minority people, west-east, and their daily actions and habits. All is so interesting!

If you love traditional art and culture, do not miss a chance to learn about the hemp, batik bee-wax drawing or traditional embroidery and other art techniques from local artisans. I myself really love it, design modern items bases on the traditional materials, and therefore I really appreciate the women’s hard work and skills.

 

LOCAL SAVOUR

As I practice sustainability, I observe and enjoy the seasonal food. Besides the Hmong’s black chicken and black pork which are delicious, you should taste the seasonal fruits and veggies that are from the locals’ gardens or collected in the forest. I also love to make the homemade rice (with husks) alcohols with seasonal fruits, which is a very enjoyable experience to understand about local seasons and savouring.

 

LOCAL MARKETS & FESTIVALS

Markets – If you have more time, you can visit markets, on weekends or special days, in Sapa town or farther such as Bac Ha, Coc Ly, Muong Hum. Each reflects its own characters and changes, and it gives you a chance to see diverse ethnic groups of people and their products.

Festivals – In my Ta Van village, after the Lunar New Year holiday, there is s festival to start the planting season. You will see people in beautiful traditional clothes, witness ceremonies, see traditional games, and all the fun of the crowd that many locals await for every year.

 

COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT

There are lots of underprivileged children living in the mountain, perhaps on the way you trek, you can bring and gift them school supplies, stationery, books, and/or any daily-use items. Don’t give them money or sweets so they will assume an easy life. Every year, I call for donation of clothes and books to give to schools and village people, and if you want to visit and/or contribute, just join with me.

 

GO SLOWER

You cannot see something deeply if you go too quickly, for example only 2D1N. You need at least 3D2N and more to explore so many interesting things. Don’t be to rush in a packed schedule to fill in a checklist that you will not remember anything other than photos without emotions and memories. Plus, how do you feel the local touch without deep talks if you are in a big group trek? Less is more, because travelling is not only about eating, filling a bucket list, but about great people you meet and thoughts that will change you!

 

FREE FROM WORRIES – Last but not least, transport by Train or Bus? The train arrives in Lao Cai city, which is ~30km far from Sapa town and you need to take a taxi/ old-styled public bus to Sapa town. I recommend you taking the safe & comfortable private cabin sleeping bus that will arrive Sapa town. From the Sapa town, you can take a taxi to the village where you stay.

 

I wish you a very great memories in Sapa. For further information and advice, please do not hesitate to contact us.