Sapa

I have spent the last week travelling through the northern part of Vietnam. If you are ever over here, a place that is well worth the effort to reach is Sapa. This mountainous area is a favorite for many tourists because of the incredible terraced landscape and the colorful clothing of the local ethnic tribes. The weather is also much cooler up here so it can be a great way to find relief from the heat of the low lands. The best way to get here is by train. There are several options running from hard seats to fairly comfortable sleeper cars. The sleeper will run about $25-35 per person but it's well worth it for the 10 hr trip. You leave Hanoi Rail Station at about 10:00 pm and arrive in Lao Cai at 8 in the morning. It's another 90 min bus ride to the town.

Another place to see while you are in the north is the town of Ba Ca. Every Sunday the locals come down from the hills to what is known as The Lover's Market. It is basically the big day for the tribe people to shop, to barter, and to meet people from the distant villages. The richly colored clothing worn by the local women is a photographer's dream come true.

Ha Long Bay

Of course, no trip to the North would be complete without spending the night on a boat on Ha Long Bay. It is said there are over 3000 islands jutting up out of this bay and is one of the most spectacular places I have seen. A night on one of the 'Junks" is a great way to get away from the noise and congestion and the seafood that is served is outstanding. You can swim off the boat, snorkle, kyak, or just sit on the deck and drink beer if you want.

It is about a three hour ride by car or bus from Hanoi but is worth it. Besides, there is some pretty interesting scenery along the way. I have been to Ha Long many times now and am always in awe whenever I return.