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Sa Pa in Vietnam is a definition of nature in its greenest form. See the breathtaking views of rice terraces and the mountains that surround this beautiful city. Going here is definitely a getaway should your eyes be used to seeing the tall buildings found in the concrete jungle.
A place where mountaineers can find their haven, Sa Pa is best known for Fansipan, which is Vietnam’s highest peak. Those who are into mountain climbing can leave the town for a while and go for an adventure that promises of the best view from the top.
Location
Sa Pa has been known to be a great tourist destination. It is found in the Lao Cai province which is situated in northwest Vietnam. The mountain town serves as an extension of the Himalayas, which is why the geography is somewhat identical to it.
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Because of its location and favorable climate, many species of plants and animals are found here. Aside from biodiversity, there are also various ethnic groups that reside here. The major source of living is farming.
Climate
Sa Pa is classified to have a subtropical highland climate. Months from October to January are the most ideal for visiting the place as these are listed to have nice temperature. The average temperature per annum is 15.4 °C, which is considered cold especially by those who reside near the equator.
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Most of the rain falls from April to early October. You may want to avoid these months and book a trip in the latter part of the year.
Transportation
From Hanoi, you need to prepare for an eight hour trip going Lao Cai railway station. Railway tickets range between 150,000 – 385,000 Vietnamese Dong. There are various seats to choose from, either hard seat or sleeper and well as soft seat or sleeper.
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Of course, getting the soft option is always more expensive. You may arrange these through a travel agent or go to the railway station yourself. It would be best to travel with a backpack to avoid any hassle during the trip since Sa Pa is a mountainous town.
Attractions
Fansipan Mountain
You need to be equipped if you plan to hike on Vietnam’s highest mountain. Make sure you have your hiking boots and comfortable clothes with you to experience a hassle free climb.
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The hike can be arranged while planning for the trip or you can do it after reaching the town. There are tourist centers that offer the service, so you do not have to worry about not booking the hike ahead of time. The hike comes in groups, which makes it even more enjoyable as you get to journey with other people.
Terraced rice fields
Picturesque as they are, the rice fields in Sa Pa is a sight to behold. Originally cultivated to serve as the locals’ plantation, the rice terraces here became famous because of the beautiful scenery it provides.
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As a matter of fact, this masterpiece even became part of the world’s most astounding rice terrace destinations back in 2014 as listed by SpotCoolStuff.
Local markets
There are a lot of local markets found in Sa Pa. Sundays is usually known as the market day for the people living in Sa Pa.
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Some of the most popular markets are those found in Muong Khuong and Can Cau. See beautiful handicrafts, costumes, local products and goods that are made and sold by the people of Sa Pa themselves.
See More
Introducing Sa Pa / Vietnam
http://www.lonelyplanet.com/vietnam/northwest-vietnam/sapa/introduction
Sapa Attractions
http://www.sapa-tour.net/attractions/
Images
(1) http://static.thanhniennews.com
(2) http://www.realworldadventures.com
(3) http://www.photoshelter.com
(4) http://static.panoramio.com
(5) http://sapatourbooker.com
(6) https://www.citypassguide.com
(7) https://c1.staticflickr.com
(8) http://vietnampremiertravel.com
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