MEGAN HOBSON from the Adventure Travel Company recently visited Vietnam for the first time, travelling with Intrepid on their "Northern Exposure' trip.
Arriving in Hanoi is an overwhelming feeling. It is a bustling city full of bikes and motorbikes - all with horns! Taking your first step onto the
street is an adventure in itself, but very quickly you are absorbed into the friendliness and warmth of the place and the people. The wonderful architecture with its French influence and tree-lined boulevards makes you understand why Hanoi got its nickname "the Paris of the East".
Joining Intrepid's "Northern Exposure" meant we were soon taking the overnight train up to Sapa (mattresses recommended!).
The old French Hill Station bordering China, at 1600 metres offers some spectacular valley and hill views. Our two-day trek took us through Black Hmong, Red Zhou and Zai villages, allowing us to observe the daily lives of the hill tribe people.
The 4-6 hours of trekking each day is spectacular as you walk past fast-flowing rivers, vivid green rice paddies, and high peaks covered in thick forest. The accommodation was in homestays.
After departing from Sapa, we headed to Halong Bay, a serene and mystical place. With 3,000 islands in the archipelago it was an enjoyable slow cruise to Cat Ba Island. The island is fairly large, and allows you to trek, kayak, swim, take a motorbike ride around the island, or float out to the local fishing village.
An early morning departure to Haiphon meant we were bound for Hanoi, and the end of a wonderful 9-day experience.
The Northern Exposure offers a great balance of adventure, culture and relaxation, and travelling with Intrepid offered a western tour leader, local guides, comfortable accommodation, and transportation of every kind.
Contact:
The Adventure Travel Company, (09) 379 9755
