city / town
7 votes
Sapa, up in Vietnam's northwest, is the quaint centre for this regions hiking and trekking. Surrounded by pituresque mountains, valleys and terraced rice fields, Sapa is definitely a must-see for those visiting the north of Vietnam.
3 votes
To find oneself in the middle of Asia - it's the wistful desire of so many travelers. Few cities are able to satisfy this desire as abund...
more Sapa photos
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Background
Originally a Black Hmong settlement, Sapa was first discovered by Europeans when a Jesuit missionary visited the area in 1918. By 1932 news of the quasi-European climate and beautiful scenery of the Tonkinese Alps had spread throughout French Indochina. By the 1940s an estimated 300 French buildings, including a sizeable prison and the summer residence of the Governor of French Indochina, had sprung up. Until 1947 there were more French than Vietnamese in the town, which became renowned for its many parks and flower gardens. However, as the security situation began to worsen during the latter days of French rule, the expatriate community steadily dwindled, and by 1953 virtually all had gone. Following the French defeat at Dien Bien Phu in 1954, victorious Vietnamese forces razed a large number of Sapa’s French buildings to the ground.The best time to visit is from April to September. Although, each season has its own special qualities and surprises.
During this period the temperature is ranging from 15 – 25 Degree Celsius, it is not a raining season in Sapa so the trekking routes are dry and bear great opportunity to do longer treks and to conquer Mount Fansipan. During the winter months, the temperature is much cooler and it is advised to bring a some warm clothing (hat, sweater, wool socks) for after you days fo trekking. Also, during the winter months there are periods of light rain, which brings in the fog. This puts Sapa in the clouds and allows for some fantastic photo opportunities.
Tip: If you could not visit Sapa during a certain time, there are always some alternatives near Hanoi to visit. Excellent value you will find from Sapaholidays.com.Sapa is a small town and you can go anywhere on foot. You are also not likely to get lost. You can equip yourself with a simple map in case you are doubtful.
Trekkers should come armed with good shoes, rubber boots, and a stout walking stick. It is also a good idea to carry extra clothes in a waterproof bag. Remember, the rice fields can be muddy and you need to be cautious while crossing these.
The altitude can prove to be quite a challenge even to the physically fit and hardy, especially when climbing steep mountain slopes. Some tourists rent a bike, but this can end up being an adventure sport, since you face hazards from others on the road, and at times from the road itself, because of landslides or washed-out parts. This is especially true during the rainy season.
http://sapaholidays.comTrain
Passengers alighting at Lao Cai will either be met by their hotel or there is a desk selling minibus tickets to Sapa. Tour operators in Hanoi can also book your ticket for you for a small fee. It is often less hassle than organizing it yourself.Banks
Agribank, 1 Pho Cau May St, T020- 387 1206. Changes many currencies, as will most hotels, but at poor rates. Also changes US$ and euro TCs. BIDV, Ngu Chi Son St, T020- 387 2569, opposite the lake, has a visa ATM and changes cash and TCs.
Internet
Internet café opposite the Delta Restaurant.
Post office
There are 2; international phone calls can be made. Main post office offers internet.Are you a business owner? Click Here to promote your business on tripwolf!
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