Trekking Sapa, Vietnam
Travelers do not stumble upon Sapa, Vietnam. They travel there to see the awesome scenery and get a glimpse of the mountain communities in the area.
Most travelers catch night train in Hanoi and arrive in Sapa in the early morning. There are several departure times for night trains – try to catch the earliest. Watch for “phony porters” who will try to help you with your luggage and then try to extort $2 per bag for helping you. Avoid the whole scene by carrying your own bag to the train and keep your ticket in hand until you arrive at your assigned car. There will be a conductor at the car to take your ticket. Guard your ticket closely – you will need it when you arrive in Sapa.
Upon arrival in Sapa you will be offered a ride “up the mountain” by bus or taxi – unless you’ve made a reservation. Hang back and watch what kind of deal others are negotiating with drivers. Beware – there are “touts” that act a “middle men”. They get a % of the fare – the more you pay the more they get.
The trip to Sapa will take 1.5 to 2 hours. Hotels – you can make a reservation, consult a travel guide (online or book) for recommendations, or wait to see where the bus stops. Check with fellow travelers on the bus, some one may have been there before and has a good hotel in mind.
