I took the 3pm Limousine van (S$21.90) from Hanoi and reached Sapa at about 8pm. I booked a hotel that is rated 5 Star from Agoda. This is a small family owned hotel that has 5 Star hospitality but no facilities.
I met up with the natives and took some of them for dinner instead of buying the souvenirs they were trying to sell me. I also bought biscuits for those children cruising around the amphitheater.
I saw a child sitting along the street. People passed by and gave him food and money. I gave the boy a bar of wafer biscuit. I was anxious to know what was happening and stand at a side to observe. A woman came from the other side of the road with a young girl, and took the boy with her. I am not sure was it her son!
The Sun Plaza is the great spot for tourists to take pictures. The lake is just a few minutes walk away from the city area
The Market Place is about 20 minutes walk from the Sun Plaza. It is at the top end of the lake. I discovered that there is a nigh market in front of the market building when I was on my way back to Hanoi. Maybe I should visit it in my next trip.
The Cat Cat Village is about 30 minutes walk from the Sun Plaza. The entrance fee is S$8 and I think this is a bit expensive. Motorists will approach you for a ride to the village but I think this is not necessary as you could see more by foot. This is a nice place and worth the visit. Remember to get sweet and biscuits for the children in the village.
Moanasapa is discovered by accident when I followed a group of tour walking towards to villages. The entrance is S$4.27 and comes with a botte of water. Although there are many man-made attractions for you to take pictures, the general appearance of the natural environment could easily take your breath away. I had to stop to admire the scenery. There is also a cafe or you to sit down and relax.
The cable car station is inside the Bell Plaza. The ticket to the Sunworld Fansipan Legend is S$52.26. The first cable car that will take you to the Sunworld garden for photo taking.
The 2nd cable car will take you up to the Fansipan cable car station. Upon arrival, you can either take the mountain train or continue to walk up the steps to the summit, which is 3,143m above sea level. It is very cold up in the mountain. Remember to bring along a jacket, umbrella, rain coat and even gloves.
