Buzz
When the town center becomes too crowded and chaotic, many seek peaceful retreats nearby.
Begin the year in Sapa for a serene lifestyle amidst nature.
In the past, Sapa town was known for its quiet and tranquil atmosphere in the mist. However, in recent years, the increasing number of tourists has made the town lively and bustling. Those who cherish the peaceful ambiance of Sapa now explore new areas nearby to enjoy the fresh air and the sensation of drifting amidst the ethereal clouds.
Tả Van – a town of ethnic minorities
Located in the Muong Hoa Valley, Tả Van is about 12 km from Sapa if you pass through the villages. It presents a different scene compared to the bustling town. The name Tả Van means 'large arc' because here, visitors can admire the majestic scenery of the Hoang Lien Son mountain range, terraced rice fields spreading out like arches, or wildflowers growing on rocky outcrops. The ancient Vietnamese stone worship tradition is still preserved here, depicted in various carvings and motifs on the rocks.
At Tả Van, tourists can experience homestays in Giay ethnic houses and engage in all activities with the hosts to explore culture and cuisine. When night falls accompanied by sudden rain, lying on a warm mat and reading by the glow of an oil lamp is an unforgettable experience for any traveler.
In the early morning, walking along the rugged stream and crossing bamboo bridges, one can easily encounter ethnic minority children with innocent faces conversing fluently in American-accented English, adorned in vibrant traditional dresses. Tả Van is home to about 40 households, where they lead a peaceful life close to nature, contrasting sharply with the bustling urban life.
Where the CEO of Facebook and his wife once stopped by
Located 18 km from Tả Van is a resort named Topas Ecolodge, dubbed the 'flower of the Muong Hoa Valley'. This is where Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg and his wife, Priscila Chan, stayed for a vacation in 2011.
After an exciting half-hour journey through remote villages shrouded in misty clouds, the sight of 25 small houses atop a hill will make travelers eager and anxious, awaiting the moment to sip hot tea on the balcony and immerse themselves in the terraced rice fields sprawling across the Muong Hoa Valley.
Designed as an environmentally friendly resort, the 25 rustic houses with minimalist interior decor offer a comfortable atmosphere. Each item serves a purpose, fulfilling basic needs. Visitors here spend most of their time admiring the scenery, strolling around, chatting with locals, and indulging in local delicacies, with the highlight being salmon hotpot.
One notable aspect that impresses most tourists here is the predominantly local staff. After undergoing training programs lasting more than three years in both expertise and language, the H'mong and Dao ethnic people are able to secure stable employment right in their homeland, a humanitarian gesture that touches many visitors. It's also where mountain marathons are organized every late summer and early autumn.
Previously, the majority of visitors were foreigners, but since Mark Zuckerberg and his wife stayed for a vacation, there has been a dramatic increase in Vietnamese guests in recent years. This trend reflects Vietnamese people's growing inclination towards resorts close to nature for enjoying freshness and slow living.
According to Vnexpress
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Reference: Travel guide from Mytour
MytourDecember 31st, 2015
