I had a phenomenal trip organised by this team, everything was made so easy for me, everyone worked together to ensure I had a great experience.
I was very lucky at the time to visit Sapa, I had perfect sunny weather and not many other tourists have returned since Vietnam recently opened the borders. This meant the hiking tracks and scenery were pristine with stunning views of the farmlands and villages. The team provided me a very comfortable return bus trip and an amazing hotel with views of the mountains across the valley.
I was shown the hidden mountain tracks by a fantastic local guide named KIN, who knew the region inside and out, as we walked along a track he would find a sneaky path to take us to many beautiful trails and views. I really enjoy hiking and experiencing more difficult trails and Kin made the adventure very challenging and rewarding with the best untouched spots, but he is also able to accomodate if you would prefer easier main roads. Also he was like a gosh darn butterfly, I left the hikes each day with my shoes and legs slapped with mud and this man seemed to float across any obstacles like a ninja wearing dress pants! Would strongly recommend.
My home stay was also wonderful, the family was very welcoming and understanding of my naivety. It is most important to be patient, respectful and kind while you are there. The bungalow I stayed in was very comfortable, I had a great bed with fly nets and my own bathroom. AC is there if you need it.
My host was very friendly and we cooked a delicious local meal together with the family, if your are lucky and keen you may even get to be floored by the ‘happy water’.
Now if you’re as lucky as me you may get a chance to experience some family celebrations, there happened to be a party organised by the family for their friends at lunch time on my last day, with a whole roast pig and other delicious local food, everyone was extremely welcoming and eager to share a drink together. At the end some of the attendees had prepared a dance and then everyone got a chance for a bit of a boogie when they had finished.
There will be a few moments throughout the trip where you may not know what is happening or where you are meant to be, especially with various people picking you up and dropping you off places, but whenever this happened I just messaged the organiser Thomas and he would tell me exactly what I needed to know. Also, enjoy and embrace the chaos, it’s part of the adventure.
All in all it was a trip I will always remember, very good value and will recommend my friends to do it if they ever want to visit Vietnam :) Enjoy!