Jul 17, 2019

Hanoi, Vietnam

Lots of mixed feelings in my last full day in Southeast Asia. I decided to take it slow, going back to a couple of places that I loved, and to a couple of new ones that were recommended. Finally, I couldn't think of a better way to say goodbye to Hanoi than cheering with 5k beers.

Jul 16, 2019

Sa Pa, Vietnam

Sa Pa town is no longer the cute hill village it used to be. Because of its recent tourist boom, new tall hotel buildings are built every day, polluting Sa Pa's skyline. I recommend staying in town only long enough to catch your bus to Hanoi or your transportation to your homestay.

Jul 15, 2019

Sa Pa, Vietnam

When staying in small towns and rural areas mostly devoted to tourism, I usually try to spend my money in as many different businesses as possible. Most likely the hostel or homestay will also serve you as restaurant/supermarket/coffee shop, but instead I try eating lunch, buying my bottled water and having my coffee somewhere else. Am I really helping the local economy? Not sure, but it doesn't hurt trying.

Jul 14, 2019

Sa Pa, Vietnam

Sa Pa was on my itinerary pretty much since I started this trip. Every traveler that mentioned Vietnam, mentioned Sa Pa as well. When you think of Sa Pa, think of valleys filled with rice fields, misty mountains, and friendly homestays. Do yourself a favor and stay at least 2 nights here. It's worth it.

Jul 13, 2019

Hanoi, Vietnam

Remember my whole rant back when I was in HCMC about big cities and how quickly I get tired of them? Well, Hanoi is different. It feels like a big city but at the same time it doesn't. It has a perfect mix of everything: culture, food, tourist attractions, nightlife, nature. I'm a big fan of Hanoi. I could not have picked a better city as last stop in Vietnam.

Jul 12, 2019

Hanoi, Vietnam

Back in Hanoi for a couple days. I was going to head straight to Sa Pa after Halong Bay but I realized that if I did that, I would miss the famous Hanoi night market, which happens only on weekends. And if there's something you know about me at this point is that I'm a BIG fan of night markets. Hanoi goes all out with its night market. A bunch of streets in the Old Quarter are closed to traffic, and they become a festival of music, sports, and delicious food.

Jul 11, 2019

Halong Bay, Vietnam

There's something about sleeping on a boat that I really enjoy. It might be the rocking movement of the water, the quietness of the night, or just the novelty of it. Either way, I slept like a baby. The second day was again full of activities: kayaking, swimming, visiting caves, and lots of chill time.