A photo model in Sapa: Photos 21 to 41

I traveled in Sapa for the first time in April 1998, ie exactly 10 years ago. At that time, I traveled by bus, 12 hours from Hanoi to Sapa (Never again!). Last weekend, I returned to Sapa, but this time I traveled with my parents and their friends. We traveled by night train from Hanoi to Lào Cai (approx. 350km, 8 hours by train), then we got a bus to Sapa (38km, an hour by bus). Things have changed much during the last 10 years since my first visit, but the place is always beautiful with its mountain and rice terrace scenery, as well as colorful costumes of the ethnic minority people (mainly H’mong, Dzao and Tày). They are the typical features of the north west region which is one of the most beautiful areas in Vietnam.

Sapa (altitude 1500-1800m) had its original name “Sa Pả”, which means “sand ground” where the locals used to gather and hold a market. In 1903, the French found the place and built up villas, offices, hydropower plant etc. Sapa is known for its cold and foggy winters (even down to 0°C). Surrounding Sapa are the Hoàng Liên moutains, nicknamed the Tonkinese Alps by

Full Text Entry: A photo model in Sapa

As alway, great story and interesting, well-done photos! matt

Hi Hongha, you should have set up your blog long time ago...but never too late since you have so much to write & contribute. I used to read about your contribution on Lonely Planet. I visited Hanoi after Christmas in 2007 but only stayed four days. Went to Halong 2D1N. Enjoyed Halong Bay cruise very much. Something differnt staying on a junk boat. The weather was cold & windy in the open sea. Other than that, everything was just wonderful. Saw Hanoi people welcoming new year. I plan to visit Sapa next time & your write up on Sapa is helpful. Keep writing.

As alway, great story and interesting, well-done photos! matt

Hi Hongha, you should have set up your blog long time ago...but never too late since you have so much to write & contribute. I used to read about your contribution on Lonely Planet. I visited Hanoi after Christmas in 2007 but only stayed four days. Went to Halong 2D1N. Enjoyed Halong Bay cruise very much. Something differnt staying on a junk boat. The weather was cold & windy in the open sea. Other than that, everything was just wonderful. Saw Hanoi people welcoming new year. I plan to visit Sapa next time & your write up on Sapa is helpful. Keep writing.