Vietnam generally has a tropical climate especially in the southern part but it is quite interesting to note that this country can also offer 'winter-feels' minus the snow. If you want to try out a much bearable cold weather, visit the northern provinces especially in December and January.
One of the provinces with the lowest recorded temperatures is Lao Cai where the famous SaPa town is located. The place is famous for both local tourists and foreigners all throughout the year. A famous landmark called Fansipan or better known as the Roof of Indochina is flocked by tourists due to its remarkable sea of clouds view.
| Fansipan Peak |
Transportation
From Hanoi, the capital of Vietnam, you can reach Sapa town in 5-6 hours by bus, train, van for hire or private. One of the most common ways to get there is by bus which will cost you around VND 300 - 500 ($13-21) depending on the type of bus. Booking a bus ticket can be done online even on the day of your trip but the online booking could be more expensive than calling the bus company directly. If you're staying in a hotel, the staff could also do the booking for you and provide you with more details. This could be a good option to avoid miscommunication.
Train routes are also avaible from Hanoi to Lao Cai but this is not recommended since you have to take the bus or taxi to Sapa unlike the bus where you may get off few blocks from your hotel.
Some may also opt for vans for hire or private cars especially those coming from Noi Bai International Airport. This option can be costly but maybe convenient for you. If you check out Sapa's official website for tourists, you can find more information about airport to hotel transfers or as another option, hotels could also arrange the booking for you. Most hotels here are accommodating with requests like this.
Accommodation
Accommodation might be the last thing you'll ever worry about. The town is swarmed with both budget hostels and luxury hotels. Booking online through famous websites maybe a convenient choice but you just have to provide exact details like extra beds and check-in or check-out time because any immediate changes might actually cost you more.
Staying right at the center of the town allows more time to explore the city at night but if you want an exhilirating mountain view right from the windows of your hotel room then you might want to consider booking a hotel away from the town center. Although there are some hotels located at the towncenter advertising fascinating landscape views, the town has become more congested and commercialized with more building constructions in sight.
Places
Fansipan Mountain is always on the list of the must-visit places in Sapa. The magnificent sea of clouds is one of the most popular reasons tourist never miss climbing to the peak. More info here.
The Sun Plaza building is a prominent tourist spot that it has become an unwritten rule to take an obligatory photo in front of this establishment.
| Sun Plaza | Sa Pa |
Nui Ham Rong Sapa Mountain is another promising attraction where you could possibly see the most anticipated cherry blossoms. Get ready to be mesmerized by a miscellany of flora in its most natural terrain. The intricate rock formations with passages forming like small caves are just amazing. You're actually lucky if you get to this part though. The place is overwhelmingly huge that you might actually lose your way. Just make sure you get to the top because a breathtaking view overlooking the city is waiting for you.
| Yay! We found the viewdeck at Nui Ham Rong Sapa Mountain |
The hotpot restaurants there are also a must-try or if you want something familiar to your tastebuds, it wouldn’t be so hard to find the nearest Italian or French-themed fastfood.
Souvineer shops should also be in your list. The items are incredibly cheap you'd wish to hoard. You can't probably buy the same items in any shops in Hanoi with the same price.
Weather
Always make a habit to check the weather conditions before visiting Sapa especially Fansipan. Rainy seasons could actually spoil the awesome view of the the sea of clouds at the Fansipan Peak and it gets really windy up there. The cold months on the other hand could be foggy but there's a 75% chance of a clear sky in November and December. While in the summer, Mr. Sun can get a little tough that it will be scorching hot and uncomfortable while climbing to the peak. The peak is an open area so be ready with your sun protection gears.
Price Tag
Accommodation - for as low as $13 per night, you can get a decent hotel room at the town center.
Transpo cost - From Hanoi to Sapa, and vice versa, expect to pay around $12-15 for a bus ride.
Food - almost every corner of the town has a hotpot restaurant that serves seafood buffet at around $12. There are also fastfood shops that offer a seven-dollar pizza or drink that can surely satisfy a hungry tummy on a budget.
Attractions - Fansipan cable car ticket would cost a chunk of your budget while other attractions are free or with minimal entrance fee.
Pack your bags and get ready for Sapa. Here are some photos for inspiration.
Excuse the puffer jackets. These were taken on a 4°C clear sunny day in December so behold the sea of clouds!
| contemplating with the sea of clouds |
| Remember Platform 9 3/4 with this shot? | Fansipan | Sa Pa |
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