the world and more

Sapa...Is this Asia or the Austrian Alps?

After 1 night in Hanoi we teamed up with James and Franny, an aussie couple we first met in Laos. We went to a Bia Hoi for a few refreshments then boarded the night train in our first class sleeper compartment and headed on the 10 hour ride to Sapa. The sleeper was amazing - really comfy beds and a little table which held our beers and card games. We managed to get a semi-decent sleep before coming to a stop at about 6am.

We got off the train and then had a 1 hour drive up the mountains which took our breath away. The mixed scenery of rice fields carved into the steep mountain-sides contrasted with the European style buildings. We got to the summit and checked into the hotel (total luxury compared to what we've been used to). The cooler climate in the mountains meant for the first time we had white fluffy quilts to settle us to sleep. Once again I was sick so I missed the first day of sight seeing but by the next day I was fine and ready for some trekking.

Our trek took us on a 14km journey down the mountain through dozens of rice fields and villages where many local children followed us trying to sell us trinkets. The trek was led by Lyn - a gorgeous Vietnamese girl who was so sweet and fit - she does the trek every day! The steep muddy decline took us to the river and into a small village for our lunch break. After lunch we visited more villages and also a local school. School was out for the rice field holidays. A 1 month holiday that lets the parents and teachers work the rice fields while the local children stay at home to look after the babies and smaller kids. Not the typical Aussie school break by any means. Village children seem to have many more responsabilities than kids back home. They are parents to the smaller kids as well as the second income earner for the family by selling their handy crafts. Makes me think that the weekend chours I had as a kid weren't all that bad really!

We ended the trek with a rewarding hot shower then headed into the town centre to explore the sights. We walked around the chalet style hotels and through the narrow streets and stumbled apon the local market which sold flowers, fruits, vegies and roast dog, head and all. As you can imagine the sight of a dog on a platter almost brought tears to mine and Em's eyes.

Sapa is full of local village women trying to sell anything from fake silver jewellery and clothes to opium and hash, all of wich we declined to buy. Apart from their distinct style of village clothes it's easy to recognise these women -they'll be the ones following you in hoards saying "you buy from me? You buy something from me?" At first it seems charming but it sure can get annoying fast when they don't leave you alone, but it's all a part of travelling. All I can say to summarise Sapa is ..... it's a place not to miss!