A day off today relaxing in Sapa. The day started with an agenda which was to move hotels from Mountain View to Cat Cat Hotel. Cat Cat had lovely views and cosy rooms. Our room even had a fireplace (which we didn’t use because it wasn’t cold enough- but we can imagine how cold it can get in the winter!)
During the day we ventured down to Cat Cat Village which is the home to the Hmong tribe. The first half of the walk was all downhill into the valley. The scenery was beautiful- nothing like we have ever seen before in Vietnam- rice paddies; green, lush vegetation; fresh air and quiet (very noticeable after living in Saigon for 18 months)! Beep, beep! Those who have been to Saigon will know what we mean!
The Hmong are very friendly, even if a little persistent with their selling, but they love to chat and find out all about you. They must live a very tough life- farming; selling their handicrafts and looking after and rearing buffalos, pigs, dogs and of course, children! The women Hmong get married very young- about 17 one was telling us. They make all kinds of ingenious things to sell, such as earrings, bracelets, clothes and bags- all made by hand.
Inevitably we had to head up from the valley at some point, so we trekked back up. The rest of the day saw some chilling out, eating and taking in the wonderful view from our very own bedroom window!
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