This was my first time visiting Nam Sai and Nam Cang, a quieter side of Sapa. The 1.5-hour drive from town was rough and still under construction, but it led to peaceful villages surrounded by terraced hills.
I hiked along uneven paths with beautiful views, meeting locals who shared stories about farming, cooking, and daily life as tourism slowly grows. In a Hmong village, smiling children greeted me. I joined a batik workshop, explored a family garden, and saw how they grow their own food.
That evening, I was welcomed into a humble home. Over a home-cooked dinner, we shared stories and laughter — a warm, personal glimpse into highland life.
What stayed with me most wasn’t just the scenery, but the people — open, resilient, and genuinely welcoming.