Buzz
The Vibrant Coc Ly Market
Every Tuesday, the bustling Coc Ly market brings alive the atmosphere of the highlands, as the H'Mong, Dao Black, Nung, and Tay people living along the Chay River come together. What makes Coc Ly market lively is the traditional, vibrant costumes of the H'Mong people.
Although the goods here may not be very appealing to tourists (mostly vegetables and poultry), you can't help but be excited when strolling around the skillfully embroidered and woven fabrics of the local people. If you're keen on immersing yourself in the ethnic culture, you can negotiate prices in this small yet lively market.
The Bustling Bac Ha Market
Bac Ha Market is often complained about as being too commercial because it is the largest market in Sapa. It is also more accessible than other highland markets and is an ideal place for those in Sapa to explore in a short period. Here, various ethnic minorities, especially the H'Mong, converge.
An interesting point is that you will find quite large and plump buffaloes and calves - a unique item in the market. Moreover, if you're lucky, you may witness bird enthusiasts showcasing their skills with the melodious singing of birds.
Lung Khau Nhin Market
The uniqueness of Lung Khau Nhin market doesn't just lie in the market itself but in the scenic route leading to it. From Sapa, you'll traverse the Tram Ton Pass, the highest mountain pass in Vietnam at an elevation of 1,900 meters. Depending on the weather, you might find yourself breathless while admiring the landscape from this height.
In Lung Khau Nhin market, you'll have the opportunity to converse with lesser-known ethnic groups like the White Thai. Although their traditional attire may not be as colorful as the Black Dao or H'Mong, chatting with them in the market implies that you've embraced their warm and friendly nature.
Sin Cheng Market
Not long ago, Sin Cheng market remained secluded from outside visitors - it's the remote location that keeps tourists rarely exploring this area. The journey from Sapa to here takes you through untouched landscapes that have yet to suffer the impact of human development.
Furthermore, the market serves as a gathering place for the White H'Mong, Flower H'Mong, White Dao, and Giay people, creating a blend of diverse ethnic costumes. You'll be excited to observe groups of locals congregating, discussing with each other, fostering a communicative atmosphere that is gradually fading in the modern cities of Vietnam.
Muong Hum Market
Situated near the Chinese border, this is perhaps the most remote yet stunning market in Sapa. The ethnic minorities attending this market include the H'Mong, Phu La, Black Dao, Giay, Red Meo, and Black Meo. Due to its considerable distance from Sapa, encountering tourists here is rare, adding a much quieter atmosphere.
Moving up a bit, you'll reach the Muong Vi Cave. The limestone cave system here resembles the breathtaking landscapes you can encounter in Ha Long Bay.
Things to Know Before Departure
Photography
The first thing to keep in mind is that, although these locations do not prohibit tourists, always remember that your presence here is by the locals' hospitality, not an obligation. Therefore, respect is key.
If you want to take photos, kindly seek permission from the locals before snapping away. If you're accompanied by a guide, ask them to assist you – either by speaking the local language or translating for you. In the worst case, simply bring your camera close to your chin and expressively gesture with your eyes. The ethnic people will understand this signal and convey their approval or discomfort with being photographed.
Negotiating Prices
Stepping into the bustling markets of handwoven and handmade goods, you'll find both handwoven and machine-woven items (especially in Bac Ha). Handwoven goods, from silk threads to dyed fabrics, can take anywhere from a few hours to a few months to create. You'll easily recognize handwoven items as they are softer and feature intricate patterns in the embroidery. Some H'Mong textiles also boast deep colors like deep green, black, and indigo, requiring longer dyeing times. Don't hesitate to negotiate prices, but also avoid being too rigid with a few extra dong for the locals here.
Attire
Some markets like Bac Ha have relatively convenient access, and tourists can drive there. However, other remote markets might demand quite a bit of your energy and stamina. If you're aiming for more distant markets like Sin Cheng, Lung Khau Nhin, you should prepare walking shoes and a spirit of exploration.
Sapa's weather is quite unpredictable, transitioning from sunny to rainy in the blink of an eye. Additionally, temperatures fluctuate significantly with considerable changes in pressure. Therefore, pack a raincoat along with a lightweight jacket to wear while trekking.
From Ngoisao.net
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Reference: Travel guide on Mytour
MytourDecember 22, 2015
