When you think of Vietnam, one of
the first things that comes to mind is rice. Indeed, it’s mind boggling to see
where the ingenuitive people can squeeze a paddy into. But for sweeping views
of mountains covered in tier after tier of rice paddies, you need to head to
Sapa.
Sapa is a mountain town that has
managed to capitalize on the tourist’s desire to experience authentic Vietnam
without totally destroying the authentic part. Yes, Sapa Town is crowded with
high-rise hotels and trendy wifi cafes… but that is where the development
stops. Guided by one of the many available tribes women, a trek into the hills
of Sapa gets you away from anything more high tech than the occasional
motorbike. Don’t be surprised if your guide is joined by a chatting cohort of
other local women….they’re happy to follow along and answer any questions, but
when you stop for lunch, they will badger you endlessly to buy a nick nack.
The hills of Sapa are exactly
what the sick-of-overdeveloped-Vietnam-backpacker is looking for. The hills are
quiet and misty, the trek is a nice chance for some exercise, the homestay is
comfortable, and the food is good.
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