Planning your visit to Vietnam and wondering, “Is Sapa worth visiting?” Here’s everything you need to know about planning your trip to Sapa.
Located in the lush mountains of Northern Vietnam is Sapa. Here you will find mountain views and rice paddy fields that cover the stunning landscape.
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Sapa Essentials
Where to Stay in Sapa
Basing yourself in Sapa Town is ideal so that you’ll be within walking distance of most restaurants and tour departures.
Why Sapa is Worth Visiting – Best Things to Do in Sapa
To give you the super short answer, yes – Sapa is 100% worth visiting and was actually my favorite part of my 1-month trip to Vietnam (and yes I did the Ha Giang Loop!) Sapa still topped the charts, though motorbiking in northern Vietnam was truly fantastic.
Nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts will find Sapa is worth visiting because there are loads of interesting activities to do.
Here are some of the top things to do in Sapa, and what makes this beautiful region a must-do on your Vietnam itinerary.
1. Go Trekking
Going on an overnight trek and staying in a homestay a traditional village is one of the main reasons why travelers go out of their way to visit Sapa. And let me tell you, it is truly amazing!
Expert hikers and adventure travelers can take trekking and planning homestays into their own hands – which is very easy to do upon arrival to Sapa town. You’ll have loads of options. This is best option for anyone staying around 3 days.
Planners or anyone short on time (like me) should book a tour in advance. Since I only had 2 days in Sapa, I booked this tour here and would highly recommend it.
2. Ride the Cable Car to Fansipan
On a clear day, see spectacular views from one of the highest mountains in Southeast Asia – Fansipan Mountain.
This activity is quite pricey, roundtrip cable car tickets are around 800,000 VND (34 USD) so check the weather before booking, otherwise the view may not be worth the cost.
3. Visit Sapa Town
Sapa Town may seem like a stark difference from its serene outskirts. The town is a major tourist hub, but it’s nice to walk around and visit some shops and see the evening festivities in the main square.
4. Visit the Waterfalls
While there are many waterfalls in Sapa and the surrounding area, Silver Waterfall and Love Waterfall are the two most popular. You can arrange transport or rent a motorbike to get to the falls.
5. Cat Cat Village
If you’ve already done a Sapa trek, you can skip Cat Cat if you’ve had your dose of a Sapa authentic village experience. Cat Cat is a great option if you are staying in Sapa Town and aren’t trekking as it’s only a 15-minute walk and will give you a small taste of what the Sapa villages are like.
Cat Cat is very touristy, so take it with a grain of salt and prepare to be surrounded by locals selling their goods!
6. Visit the Sapa Museum (closed often, check before)
If you’re especially interested in the history and traditions of Sapa tribes, visit the Sapa Museum. Although this museum tends to operate on its own terms, so consider calling before going.
7. Try Hot Pot
Salmon Hot Pot is one of the most known meals to have in Sapa. Try some out at Viet Deli or Moment Romantic Restaurant Sapa.
Weather in Sapa.. It can be an issue.
Your trip to Sapa, and how much you’ll enjoy it, may, unfortunately, be completely dependent on the weather.
This isn’t exactly helpful information, because when I was in Hanoi and looking at the weather in Sapa, it said it would rain every day – and it barely rained at all. I would have been so upset if I didn’t plan my trip to Sapa based on this incredibly inaccurate weather forecast.
Much like anything in Vietnam, it’s a gamble. But let me help you narrow down your options.
Northern Vietnam’s rainy season is from mid-May to mid-September. If you’re traveling to Vietnam during this time, I would consider not booking a Sapa trek. If it’s pouring down rain the entire trek, you’re simply just not going to enjoy it.
The best time to visit Sapa is March-May and September-November.
Alternatively, you could book a trip to Sapa town, assess the weather situation, and book a trek for the next day. That’s the great thing about Vietnam is you can (almost) travel the entire country booking things only a day or two in advance.
Sapa town is full of nice restaurants, hotels, shopping, and local events. Worst case scenario you get there and won’t get to trek but will get to see the lovely town.
Personally, I took an overnight sleeper bus and it was very nice. Pay close attention as the trains to Sapa take longer and I’ve heard are not as nice as the buses!
While the buses can range dramatically, I got one that was so awesome – just look at it!
Many travelers also book a complete guided tour from Hanoi with all transportation included (this is what I did!)
I booked this tour here doing option #2 (sleeper bus) and arriving in SaPa at 6 am and beginning my hike that day. This is the best option for maximizing your time.
What to Pack for Sapa Trekking
Some of the trekking tours aren’t totally clear about what you actually need for trekking in Sapa. Lots of people were either not prepared or over-prepared on my trek.
1. Bug Spray
Hands down the number one thing you will need is bug spray! You will be trekking deep in the rice fields and forests, those mosquitos will eat you alive!
2. Good tennis shoes/ trekking shoes
My asics tennis shoes barely got me by on this trek, and I wasn’t alone! As touristy as Sapa treks can be, they are actually quite tough. I was slipping and sliding left and right. I was kicking myself for not bringing a better pair of hiking shoes.
3. Small Backpack
Do NOT bring your suitcase or big backpacking bag on your Sapa trek. You’ll need to leave most of your luggage behind at your accommodation and just bring a small backpack filled with your essentials for your Sapa trek.
4. Sunscreen
If you’re trekking in sunny weather, you’ll want to pack sunscreen to protect your skin.
5. Cash
Everything on Sapa treks is cash only, so be sure to bring cash – especially small bills for water and snacks. Most restaurants and accommodations in Sapa Town accept cards, but once you leave the town you are in cash-only territory.
6. Rain Jacket & Protection
As I’ve mentioned – rain in SaPa can be tricky! You’ll want to bring a rain jacket & a trash bag or plastic protection to put over your bag.
7. Baby Wipes
The trek can be pretty muddy or you might be one of the (many) unlucky ones who slide in Buffalo poop! Having a pack of baby wipes will keep you fresh throughout your hike.
8. Swimsuit
Throughout your hike, you may find a few rivers to take a dip in, so you’ll want to pack your swimsuit,
9. Basic Essentials
However long your hike is, you’ll want to pack just the very basics you’ll need for your trek and your overnight homestays.
Is Sapa Worth Visiting – YES!
As you can see I clearly think Sapa is worth visiting and making the time for in your Vietnam itinerary.
Sapa is the perfect getaway from the hustle and bustle of Hanoi and can be a stop along the way on your Ha Giang Loop tour.
I hope this Sapa travel guide has completely prepared you for your epic scenic adventure in northern Vietnam.
Published on Sep 12, 2023 | Last updated Sep 14, 2023
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A Viñales Day Trip Tour from Havana was the perfect solution to a problem I commonly have when planning trips – never enough time!
Originally, we wanted to stay in a Casa Particular in Viñales for a few days, but we just didn’t have the time in our limited seven days in Cuba. We were so happy we found this Airbnb experience that offered a day trip.
Where is Viñales?
Viñales is a town in Western Cuba home to lush fields, tobacco farms, rock climbing, and so much more. Just a couple hours away from bustling Havana, Viñales makes for a perfect day trip to enjoy life at a slower pace!
Why book an Airbnb Experience?
Because most of the tourism is run by the communist government, booking Airbnb experiences is the most direct way to give Cuban people money to support them for their services.
Most Cubans must work government jobs that only pay a monthly average wage of $20-40 USD (a month!) To make ends meet, many Cubans work on the side in the tourism industry.
By booking an Airbnb or Airbnb Experience, your money will go to supporting the Cuban people directly, rather than to a hotel or tourist agency. This rule doesn’t just apply to Cuba, it’s just like shopping locally. Your money goes to the people, rather than larger corporations.
Also, it is way more of an authentic experience!
Now that I’ve briefed you on Cuban geography and politics, let’s get to it!
– Viñales Day Trip Tour from Havana –
Depart from Havana around 8 a.m.
We were picked up in this awesome classic car from Havana around 8-9 a.m.
Honestly, nobody is on time in Cuba, so if you have a tour booked and they are running behind – that is totally normal! Patience is key, as keep in mind internet is not always readily available here.
The 2.5-hour drive to Viñales was really enjoyable. Make sure to bring your passport everywhere with you in Cuba, as cops will often flag you down when you are leaving city limits.
Horseback Riding through Mogotes Valley.
The first stop on our tour was riding beautiful horses through the lush valley.
Anytime I think of engaging in tourism with animals, I always do some research into the specifics of how the animals are treated.
We almost booked a different tour in Viñales before coming across this one, however, there were a number of reviews of how badly the horses were treated. Luckily on this tour, the horses seemed to be very well taken care of.
This photo doesn’t do the views of the valley justice, it was so stunning!
The Art of Cuban Cigars
This was unexpectedly one of my favorite parts of the tour! Smoking a Cuban cigar in Cuba is definitely a bucket list moment worth all the hype. You learn where the tobacco grows, how to roll it, and of course how to smoke it.
Bring cash with you so you can buy cigars and other souvenirs! If you personally don’t want them, they make excellent gifts to give away back home.
Say hello to the little farm animals
After the horseback riding and cigar demonstration, you just get to chill and hang out with the farmers while smoking cigars. It honestly feels like you’re visiting your family’s farm! It was so nice, and all the animals were so adorable.
Horseback, cigars, and now caves – oh my! This tour has quite a variety, which always kept things interesting. We enjoyed a nice boat ride through the beautiful caves of Viñales.
Enjoy a late lunch with a view.
On your way back to Havana, you will stop at a delicious restaurant with an incredible view. I ordered the Cuban Ropa Vieja, which is the National Dish of Cuba. It was incredibly delicious!
That concludes a full-day trip Tour to Viñales.
While Havana is a great place to base yourself during your time in Cuba, I highly recommend venturing out beyond.
You can book this Viñales Day Trip Tour on Airbnb here.
Published on Sep 12, 2023 | Last updated Sep 14, 2023
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Nicknamed “The City of Dreaming Spires,” Oxford is truly the most magical fairytale-like city in all of England.
There is so much to love about this city, but I’ll keep it short and let the photos give it justice! Oxford is so unique because it is rich with history, and it’s booming with college students. It’s a beautiful city that is young at heart, yet has an old soul.
“Every city has a sex and an age which have nothing to do with demography. Rome is feminine. So is Odessa. London is a teenager, an urchin, and in this hasn’t changed since the time of Dickens. Paris, I believe, is a man in his twenties in love with an older woman.”
– John Berger
I’m reminded of this quote often when I think of Oxford. While I couldn’t give an exact profile of Oxford in that sense, you can’t help but notice this city has a distinct personality as you meander through the narrow alleyways and whimsical architecture.
Here are some photos to give you a glimpse into Oxford, the Fairytale City of England.
The Radcliffe Camera
The rad cam is one of the most famous landmarks in all of Oxford. It was constructed in 1737 and serves as a library to students of the University of Oxford.
My favorite thing to do in Oxford, is to simply just walk around the streets admiring all the beautiful architecture.
This may sound creepy, but when you get into the suburbs it is so fun to look at the windows of the houses, people here are really clever with their window displays.
The churches are beautiful!
“The Oxford Bridge of Sighs”
Another iconic landmark of Oxford! The official name is the Hertford Bridge, but due to it’s resemblance of the Venetian Bridge of Sighs, the name evolved.
Getting a rooftop view of the city is a must.
My favorite view of the city is from the top of the University Church of St. Mary the Virgin, where you can get a stunning 360 view of the city, the Radcliffe Camera, and All Souls College.
This charming cinema was my favorite place to catch a movie. I wish more theaters where I live in the US were as cute as this!
Did you know Oxford is actually a real fairytale city in England? Can you visualize what classic tale resembles the photos below?
The scenic grounds of the University of Oxford colleges.
The college courtyards are absolutely stunning and are often times open to the public between certain hours! Pictured below are the famous grounds of Christ Church.
Oxford is a timeless city that takes you back in history. The cobblestone streets, blooming flowers, and ornate architecture are just a few of the things that make Oxford seem like a city from a fairytale.
After all, the classic fairy tale Alice in Wonderland was written in Oxford!
Published on Sep 12, 2023 | Last updated Sep 14, 2023
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This post is all about photos of Hallstatt Austria.
Hallstatt, Austria, is a postcard-perfect village nestled in the heart of the Salzkammergut region. With its fairytale-like beauty, Hallstatt is renowned for its picturesque setting along the serene Lake Hallstatt and the majestic Dachstein Alps towering in the background.
The village has a charming, old-world atmosphere with its traditional Alpine architecture, cobblestone streets, and vibrant flower boxes adorning every corner. Visitors are captivated by the reflective waters of the lake, the historic salt mines that harken back to ancient times, and the tranquil vibe that makes Hallstatt an enchanting escape from the modern world.
Published on Sep 12, 2023 | Last updated Sep 14, 2023
Researching your trip to Vietnam and find yourself wondering, ‘Is Halong Bay Worth it?” Here’s everything you need to know about visiting one of the most famous natural wonders of Vietnam. Halong Bay is said to be one of the most jaw-droppingly gorgeous places on…
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This post is all about how to visit the Hanoi train street. Photo by Thijs Degenkamp on Unsplash All Aboard! The Hanoi Train Street is the most buzzing street in Vietnam’s capital. It has become a must-visit destination for travelers seeking a unique and thrilling…
Published on Sep 2, 2023 | Last updated Sep 6, 2023
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Published on Sep 4, 2023 | Last updated Sep 5, 2023 | Asia Travel, Blog
This post is all about how to visit the Hanoi train street. Photo by Thijs Degenkamp on Unsplash All Aboard! The Hanoi Train Street is the most buzzing street in Vietnam’s capital. It has become a must-visit destination for travelers seeking a unique and thrilling…
Searching for the best Christmas Destinations in the world to fully experience all things fresh pine and mulled wine? As the holiday season approaches, these 27 picturesque Christmas destinations transform into magical wonderlands, complete with twinkling lights and…
This post is all about the BEST things to do in Budapest.
Budapest is quickly earning the title of one of the trendiest capitals in central Europe. You can spend weeks in this beautiful city and still have SO much to see.
This post may contain affiliate links, which means I’ll receive a commission if you purchase through my link, at no extra cost to you. Please read full disclosure here.
Planning a trip to a city with so much to offer can be exciting and overwhelming! That’s why I’ve created this FREE Checklist to print off for your trip.
Planning your trip to Budapest? I recommend going for St. Stephens Day. It’s undoubtedly the most magical day of the year to visit.
My Budapest Essentials
Why Visit Budapest
Budapest, often referred to as the “Paris of the East,” is a captivating blend of history, architecture, and vibrant culture that offers an unforgettable experience for travelers.
Travelers mark Budapest as a top bucket list choice so they can experience soothing thermal baths, the intricate history at museums and historic sites, and the delectable Hungarian cuisine at traditional cafes and restaurants.
Whether exploring the charming streets of the Castle District or having a drink at a ruin bar, Budapest is an enchanting journey into the heart of Central Europe.
Where to Stay in Budapest
District V (Inner City): This central district is ideal for first-time visitors as it’s close to many major attractions like the Hungarian Parliament, St. Stephen’s Basilica, and the Danube River. It also offers a range of hotels, restaurants, and shops, making it convenient for exploring both Buda and Pest.
District VII (Jewish Quarter): This area is famous for its vibrant nightlife, unique ruin bars, and street art. It’s a great choice for younger travelers and those interested in experiencing the hip and creative side of Budapest.
The Jewish Quarter is where I based myself for the two weeks I was in Budapest and I loved it!
Best Things to Do in Budapest – 7 Things You Can’t Miss
While Budapest is filled with countless amazing sites to see and activities to immerse yourself in, here is a rundown of the absolute must-do things you can’t leave the city without doing.
1. Tour the Parliament Building
Taking a tour of the breathtaking Budapest Parliament is a must. As you step inside the neo-Gothic masterpiece, you’re greeted by intricate details, towering spires, and a sense of grandeur that reflects the nation’s proud heritage.
The guided tour takes you through chambers decorated with golden accents and historic artifacts, providing a glimpse into the legislative processes that have shaped the country.
Most Parliament tours are the best value through the official government website here. Be sure to book your tours weeks in advance. If all tours are booked through the official website, you can pay a little extra and secure a ticket with this tour below:
Budapest Parliament building
2. Visit The Fisherman’s Bastion
Perched atop the Buda Castle Hill with sweeping views of the Danube River and the city’s skyline, Fisherman’s Bastion in Budapest stands as a fairytale-like architectural gem. Its distinctive white towers are a whimsical staple of the city.
From its vantage points, the Bastion offers a picture-perfect panorama of the Hungarian Parliament and the Chain Bridge,
3. The Shoes on the Danube Bank
The Shoes on the Danube Bank in Budapest is a haunting memorial that pays tribute to the countless lives lost during one of the darkest periods of history. As you approach the riverbank, you’ll encounter a solemn row of 60 pairs of iron shoes.
Each pair of shoes, meticulously crafted in period-appropriate styles, represents the footwear left behind by Jewish victims who were forced to strip before being shot and swept into the Danube River during World War II.
This memorial was constructed by film director Can Togay.
Shoes on the Danube Bank Memorial
4. Go to a Thermal Bath
Immersing yourself in the thermal baths of Budapest is a must-do! This rejuvenating journey offers an escape into warm, mineral-rich waters that have been soothing locals and visitors for centuries.
All you need to bring for your spa day is a towel, a swimsuit, and some cash.
Here is a breakdown of finding the best spas for you in Budapest:
Szechenyi is the most popular, especially for parties.
Gellert is a beautiful art deco and relaxing experience.
Rudas is where the locals go. This is the most low-key, cheapest, and most relaxing thermal bath that you’ll find in the city. and where I chose to go!
5. Go to a Ruin Bar
No trip to Budapest is complete without visiting an iconic ruin bar!
These eclectic and vibrant buildings have transformed abandoned buildings into dynamic hubs of art, culture, and nightlife.
With their mismatched furniture and graffiti-covered walls, ruin bars create an atmosphere that’s both laid-back and electric.
Some of the top ruin bars to visit in Budapest are Szimpla, Instant, and Fogashaz.
If you’d like to experience Budapest’s nightlife with fellow travelers, check out this guided pub crawl with a local in a group setting.
6. See the Most Beautiful Cafe in the World
Deemed “the most beautiful cafe in the world” the New York Cafe will take your breath away. Experience the lavish chandeliers and elaborate decor with a hot cup of coffee and feel like true Hungarian royalty.. just for a bit!
7. Visit a Museum or Gallery
Budapest is home to loads of incredible museums and art galleries. Check out the Hungarian National Gallery and see what traveling exhibitions they are hosting.
If you are interested in Budapest’s history, I recommend visiting the House of Terror, a memorial for victims of the fascist and communist regimes. This museum is quite popular, so be sure to book in advance.
A few of the best museums in Budapest are the Hungarian National Gallery, House of Terror, and the Museum of Fine Arts.
Did You Know Going is My Secret to Scoring Insanely Cheap Flights?
Published on Sep 12, 2023 | Last updated Sep 14, 2023
Researching your trip to Vietnam and find yourself wondering, ‘Is Halong Bay Worth it?” Here’s everything you need to know about visiting one of the most famous natural wonders of Vietnam. Halong Bay is said to be one of the most jaw-droppingly gorgeous places on…
Published on Sep 4, 2023 | Last updated Sep 5, 2023
This post is all about how to visit the Hanoi train street. Photo by Thijs Degenkamp on Unsplash All Aboard! The Hanoi Train Street is the most buzzing street in Vietnam’s capital. It has become a must-visit destination for travelers seeking a unique and thrilling…
Published on Sep 2, 2023 | Last updated Sep 6, 2023
Searching for the best Christmas Destinations in the world to fully experience all things fresh pine and mulled wine? As the holiday season approaches, these 27 picturesque Christmas destinations transform into magical wonderlands, complete with twinkling lights and…
Published on Sep 4, 2023 | Last updated Sep 5, 2023 | Asia Travel, Blog
This post is all about how to visit the Hanoi train street. Photo by Thijs Degenkamp on Unsplash All Aboard! The Hanoi Train Street is the most buzzing street in Vietnam’s capital. It has become a must-visit destination for travelers seeking a unique and thrilling…
Searching for the best Christmas Destinations in the world to fully experience all things fresh pine and mulled wine? As the holiday season approaches, these 27 picturesque Christmas destinations transform into magical wonderlands, complete with twinkling lights and…
