<?xml version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8"?>
<rss version="2.0"
	xmlns:content="http://purl.org/rss/1.0/modules/content/"
	xmlns:wfw="http://wellformedweb.org/CommentAPI/"
	xmlns:dc="http://purl.org/dc/elements/1.1/"
	xmlns:atom="http://www.w3.org/2005/Atom"
	xmlns:sy="http://purl.org/rss/1.0/modules/syndication/"
	xmlns:slash="http://purl.org/rss/1.0/modules/slash/"
	>

<channel>
	<title>Vietnam Holidays &#187; Lao Cai</title>
	<atom:link href="http://www.anepvietnam.com/tag/lao-cai/feed" rel="self" type="application/rss+xml" />
	<link>http://www.anepvietnam.com</link>
	<description></description>
	<lastBuildDate>Thu, 08 Dec 2011 08:19:15 +0000</lastBuildDate>
	<language>en</language>
	<sy:updatePeriod>hourly</sy:updatePeriod>
	<sy:updateFrequency>1</sy:updateFrequency>
	<generator>http://wordpress.org/?v=3.2.1</generator>
<xhtml:meta xmlns:xhtml="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml" name="robots" content="noindex" />
		<item>
		<title>North Vietnam Exclusive</title>
		<link>http://www.anepvietnam.com/north-vietnam-exclusive</link>
		<comments>http://www.anepvietnam.com/north-vietnam-exclusive#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Sun, 24 Jan 2010 19:52:55 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Articles]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Asian Cities]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Colonial Villa]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Cultural Heritage]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Destination Day]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Ethnic Tribes]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Fish Restaurant]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[French Colonialists]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Hanoi Vietnam]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Hidden Gems]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[High In The Mountains]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Lao Cai]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Night Train]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[North Vietnam]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Rice Paddies]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Sapa Vietnam]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Sedate Pace]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Sofitel Metropole Hanoi]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Specialist Guide]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Tranquil Lakes]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Victoria Express Train]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.anepvietnam.com/north-vietnam-exclusive</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[North Vietnam exclusiveHanoi &#8211; Lao Cai &#8211; Sapa &#8211; Lao Cai &#8211; Hanoi This tour combines the cultural heritage of Hanoi with the scenic mountains of Sapa.Vietnam&#8217;s capital is a city of wide tree lined boulevards with tranquil lakes and colonial villa&#8217;s has a more sedate pace than other Asian cities. This is a city that [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>North Vietnam exclusive<br/><br/><strong>Hanoi &#8211; Lao Cai &#8211; Sapa &#8211; Lao Cai &#8211; Hanoi</strong><br/><br/> <br/><br/>This tour combines the cultural heritage of Hanoi with the scenic mountains of Sapa.<br/><br/>Vietnam&#8217;s capital is a city of wide tree lined boulevards with tranquil lakes and colonial villa&#8217;s has a more sedate pace than other Asian cities. This is a city that offers something for everyone and will leave you wishing that you had longer to explore this enthralling capital.<br/><br/>From Hanoi, take the deluxe overnight Victoria Express train to Sapa; the train has made this area of Vietnam more accessible than ever &#8211; and getting there is part of the fun. Sapa is one of Vietnam&#8217;s most intriguing destinations, set high in the mountains near the China border; it is most famous for its terraced rice paddies and colorful local markets. Home to numerous ethnic tribes and boasting the highest mountain in Indochina, visitors to the region will understand why the area was a favourite with French colonialists as far back as 1920.<br/><br/>Back in Hanoi enjoy the deservedly world famous charms of the Sofitel Metropole before heading home or continuing your journey in Vietnam or one of our other enticing destination.<br/><br/> <strong>Day 1 &#8211; Hanoi </strong> <br/><br/>On arrival at Hanoi&#8217;s Noi Bai Airport an Exotissimo guide will greet you and transfer by private car through the city to your hotel.  <br/><br/>Overnight at <strong>Sofitel Metropole Hanoi, Vietnam</strong><br/><br/><br/><br/><strong>Day 2 &#8211; Hanoi &#8211; Lao Cai (B,L) </strong> <br/><br/>After breakfast depart for an insider&#8217;s tour of the capital. Long hidden from the international community Hanoi&#8217;s cultural scene is thriving. Visit the best galleries, pagodas, cultural sites, markets and other hidden gems with your specialist guide. Enjoy lunch at Cha Ca La Vong. Listed in the travel book ‘500 places to see before you die&#8217; this specialty fish restaurant has been serving the same dish for the past 3 decades. Mid evening proceed to Hanoi Train Station for the night train to Lao Cai.<br/><br/>Overnight on the Victoria Express train.  <br/><br/> <strong>Day 3 &#8211; Lao Cai &#8211; Sapa (B,L) </strong> <br/><br/>On arrival in the border town of Lao Cai transfer to the former hill station of Sapa.. Take a morning walking tour of Sapa for a visit to the busy market where Red Dao, Black, Tay, H&#8217;mong and other hill tribe people converge from the surrounding countryside to sell their handicrafts and to buy provisions. Following take a light trek to discover Sapa&#8217;s quaint hill tribe villages set against the stunning Honag Lien Son Mountain Range and Indochina&#8217;s highest peak, Mt. Fansipan.<br/><br/>Overnight at the Victoria Hotel &amp; Spa, Sapa.  <br/><br/><strong>Day 4 &#8211; Sapa (B) </strong> <br/><br/>This day is free to discover Sapa at your own pace. Options include a variety of short treks and excursions, enjoying a relaxing massage at the Victoria Resort&#8217;s spa, or simply relaxing in the refreshing mountain air.<br/><br/>Overnight at the Victoria Hotel &amp; Spa, Sapa.  <br/><br/> <strong>Day 5 &#8211; Sapa &#8211; Lao Cai &#8211; Hanoi (B) </strong> <br/><br/>As an optional extra visit one of the areas exciting markets (ask you travel consultant for more info), explore the area on foot or drive back to Sapa for further exploration of the town. In the late afternoon depart for Lao Cai Town for your departure back to Hanoi by train.<br/><br/>Overnight on the Victoria Express train.  <br/><br/> <br/><br/><strong>Day 6 &#8211; Hanoi (B) </strong> <br/><br/>Arrival at Hanoi Station in the early morning. Drive to your hotel then take the day to relax as you please. Enjoy the many charms that this city has to offer from the many boutique shops or simply taking a coffee at one of the charming street side coffee shop and watching the world go by.  <br/><br/>Overnight at Sofitel Metropole Hanoi, Vietnam<br/><br/><br/><br/> <strong>Day 7 &#8211; Hanoi (B) </strong> <br/><br/>Free at leisure until your transfer by private car to Hanoi Airport for international flight or domestic extension.  <br/><br/>Overnight at <strong>Sofitel Metropole Hanoi, Vietnam</strong><br/><br/> <br/><br/> <br/><br/> <br/><br/><strong>Tour Duration:  </strong><strong> </strong><strong> </strong> 7 Days / 6 Nights<br/><br/><strong>Tour Operates:</strong> <strong> </strong><strong>   </strong>Year Round / On Demand<br/><br/><strong>Tour Price:</strong> <strong>         </strong>On request  <br/><br/><strong>For an accurate quotation please send Email us<strong> </strong></strong>    <br/><br/><strong>Our services include as follows:</strong><br/><br/> Accommodation with daily breakfast at selected hotels.  Tours, transfers and all services as mentioned in the itinerary.  Services of a driver and Private air-conditioned vehicles during all tours and transfers.  Services of an English speaking guide during all tours and transfers.  Entrance fees for all sights visited.  Camera and video cameras fees if applicable  Lunch or dinner if mentioned in itinerary with (L,D)  Domestic airport taxes for any domestic flights  Tips for porters.  <br/><br/><strong>Our services do not include as follows:</strong><br/><br/> International flights to and from Vietnam  Meals other than those mentioned above  Personal expenses are such as laundry, telephone, drinks etc&#8230;  Tips for guide  Personal insurance  Any domestic flights not mentioned  International departure airport tax (normally included in your ticket price)<br/><br/> <br/><br/>        <strong>Creating Unique Touring Experiences</strong><br/><br/>All the touring itineraries on this website have been carefully crafted by our in-country management teams and represent a series of experiences we can certainly recommend. However, we understand that every travel experience should be as unique and individual as each traveller. Our consultants are waiting to hear from you so that we can tailor or custom design a tour to your individual specifications.<br/><br/><br/><br/><br />
<em>By: <strong>PanViet Travel Vietnam</strong></em><br/><br/></p>
]]></content:encoded>
			<wfw:commentRss>http://www.anepvietnam.com/north-vietnam-exclusive/feed</wfw:commentRss>
		<slash:comments>0</slash:comments>
		</item>
		<item>
		<title>Vietnam travel guide and package tours in summer 2009 deals</title>
		<link>http://www.anepvietnam.com/vietnam-travel-guide-and-package-tours-in-summer-2009-deals</link>
		<comments>http://www.anepvietnam.com/vietnam-travel-guide-and-package-tours-in-summer-2009-deals#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Sat, 02 Jan 2010 22:27:58 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Articles]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Afternoon Visit]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Asian Capitals]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Capital Of Vietnam]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Final Resting Place]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Harmony With Nature]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Hmong Village]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Ho Chi Minh]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Hoan Kiem Lake]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Lao Cai]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Mountain Scenery]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Narrow Alleys]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Pillar Pagoda]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Puppet Show]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Puppet Theater]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Shop Houses]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Traditional Houses]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Victoria Express Train]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Vietnam Hanoi]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Vietnam Travel Guide]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Water Puppet]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.anepvietnam.com/vietnam-travel-guide-and-package-tours-in-summer-2009-deals</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Day 1 – Arrive Hanoi -Transfer to your hotel. Your local guide will be available for optional walking tours of the city for those that are not too fatigued by the flight. Perhaps visit a Water Puppet Show at the Municipal Water Puppet Theater located on the shore of Hoan Kiem Lake. (B,D)Day 2 – [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Day 1 – Arrive Hanoi -Transfer to your hotel. Your local guide will be available for optional walking tours of the city for those that are not too fatigued by the flight. Perhaps visit a Water Puppet Show at the Municipal Water Puppet Theater located on the shore of Hoan Kiem Lake. (B,D)<br/><br/>Day 2 – Hanoi – Victoria Express Train &#8211; Sightseeing in Hanoi starts with a visit to the Old Quarter. Although it is the modern-day capital of Vietnam, HANOI still retains the mystery and charm of past centuries. Narrow lanes and traditional shop houses invite exploration, while its many beautiful public spaces lakes, parks, tree-lined boulevards and monuments give the city an air of elegance and harmony with nature unique among Asian capitals. We will see the TEMPLE OF LITERATURE, a peaceful series of walled courtyards and graceful gateways, and one of the best surviving examples of traditional Vietnamese architecture. Continue to the miniature ONE PILLAR PAGODA. near the vast HO CHI MINH MEMORIAL COMPLEX, a lovely park setting which is home to Ho Chi Minh&#8217;s final resting place. Then begin exploring the OLD QUARTER. This fascinating network of narrow alleys and shop houses is also known as &#8216;The 36 Streets,&#8217; each street being named after the merchandise traditionally sold there, ranging from< fabrics to crafts to medicines to tombstones. A handicraft-lover's paradise and a endlessly interesting place to explore local life. In the afternoon, visit one of Hanoi's famous museums, either the HISTORY MUSEUM or the MUSEUM OF ETHNOLOGY. Transfer to train station - By night train from Hanoi to Lao Cai aboard the Victoria Express Train. (B)<br/><br/>Day 3 – Lao Cai &#8211; Sapa &#8211; Transfer to Sapa &#8211; Excursion to Cat Cat and Ta Phin with trek Travel down a winding road to the Black Hmong village of Cat Cat, past beautiful mountain scenery. Wander through the village, visiting the traditional houses and observing the rural way of life. Afterwards, continue to the handicraft village of Ta Phin, inhabited by the Red Dzao, known for their distinctive red headscarves. (B, D)<br/><br/>Day 4 – Sapa &#8211; Excursion to Lao Chai and Tavan. Travel on mountain roads to the Black Hmong village of Lao Chai, then past beautiful terraced fields to Tavan, a town of the Zay ethnic group. Afternoon at leisure. (B)<br/><br/>Day 5 – Sapa – Lao Cai – Train &#8211; Visit the colorful Sunday market at Bac Ha, where ethnic minorities from around the region gather to trade water buffalo, livestock and handicrafts. The people inhabiting the area are mainly Flower Hmong, but there are also Dzao, Nung, Xa Fang, Phu La, Thai and many more ethnicities as well. By night train from Lao Cai to Hanoi. (B)<br/><br/>Day 6 – Hanoi – Halong Bay – Transfer to Halong Bay for Cruise aboard a traditional junk.The first day&#8217;s itinerary passes Dinh Huong island, Ga Choi Island, Sung Sot cave, before stopping at Titov beach for a swim. Dinner is served on the boat as the sun sets. (B,L,D)<br/><br/>Day 7 – Halong Bay &#8211; Hanoi &#8211; Continuing to cruise around the waters of the bays, visiting Man’s Head Island, Tortise Island, and Luon Cave. Return to Hanoi. (B)<br/><br/>Day 8 –Hanoi &#8211; Hue &#8211; Flight from Hanoi to Hue for sightseeing in the Old Imperial City: Located in the heart of Hue is the Imperial Citadel, a vast complex built in the early 19th century and modeled after the Forbidden City of Peking. The monuments that remain provide a fascinating glimpse into the court life of the Nguyen Dynasty. Also visit the Dien Tho Residence and the Thai Hoa Palace, among other sites. Visit Dong Ba Market : a local market near the Imperial City. (B,D)<br/><br/>Day 9 –Hue -Enjoy a leisurely boat ride down the Perfume River, stopping first at the iconic Thien Mu Pagoda, an elegant seven-tiered octagonal tower. Then to the Imperial Tomb of Minh Mang, a majestic complex of courtyards, pavilions and temples in a beautiful natural setting. Hue served as the capital of Vietnam for more than 140 years. It houses ancient temples, imperial buildings and French-style edifices. It was established in the 17th century. During the afternoon, visit a variety of other Imperial tombs in the countryside. (B)<br/><br/>Day 10 –Hue – Hoi An &#8211; Journey from Hue to Hoi An over scenic mountainous roads with spectacular views over the coastline including the large coastal city of Danang before arriving in Hoi An. Hoi An was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1999. Its colorful shophouses and temples reflect a diverse heritage, dating back to the 16th and 17th century, when it was a major port for Western, Chinese, and Japanese traders. Today it is a thriving center of traditional crafts and a shoppers’ paradise, best explored on foot. (B,D)<br/><br/>Day 11 –Hoi An – Danang &#8211; Saigon &#8211; Flight from Danang to Saigon. Saigon teems with energy. Your tour of this exciting city begins in the historic center, strolling along Dong Khoi Street passing classic European-style landmarks such as the ornate City Hall (Hotel De Ville), and the old Opera House. Visit to the neo-Romanesque Notre Dame Cathedral, the Reunification Palace and the War Remnants Museum. Finally, end up at the central Ben Thanh handicrafts Market. (B,D)<br/><br/>Day 12 –Saigon – Today a visit to My Tho, a town in the rich agricultural region of the Mekong Delta and visit the Vinh Trang Pagoda. Afterwards board a local boat to explore the islands of the Mekong, stopping at an orchard to enjoy fruit and tea while listening to local music. (B)<br/><br/>Day 13 –Saigon – Siem Reap &#8211; Flight from Saigon to Siem Reap, Cambodia. (B,D )<br/><br/>Day 14 –Siem Reap &#8211; Today, visit the crown jewel of Khmer architecture, Angkor Wat. It is the national symbol and the highlight of any visit to Cambodia, especially the extraordinary temples of Preah Khan, Banteay Srei. Watch the sunset over the Cambodian countryside from the upper terraces of an ancient Angkorian temple. (B)<br/><br/>Day 15 –Siem Reap- Visit the fortified city of Angkor Thom. Covering an area of 10 square km. and enclosed by a wall and wide moats, the city includes many of Cambodia&#8217;s most popular sights. Bayon Temple and the temples of Prasat Kravan, Banteay Kdei, Ta Prohm, Ta Keo, Thommanon, Chau Say Tevoda, are included (B)<br/><br/>Day 16 –Siem Reap &#8211; Bangkok –Sightseeing in Siem Reap &#8211; Visit the Chantiers Ecoles (Artisans d Angkor), A vocational centre trains 650 apprentices a year including 160 in fine arts and crafts trades. We’ve included a visit to the McDermott Gallery. Flight, Siem Reap to Bangkok. (B,L)<br/><br/><br/><br/><br />
<em>By: <strong>Tony Chu</strong></em><br/><br/></p>
]]></content:encoded>
			<wfw:commentRss>http://www.anepvietnam.com/vietnam-travel-guide-and-package-tours-in-summer-2009-deals/feed</wfw:commentRss>
		<slash:comments>0</slash:comments>
		</item>
		<item>
		<title>Conquer The Top Of Mt. Fansipan ~ &#8216;How High You Are With The Top?&#8217;</title>
		<link>http://www.anepvietnam.com/conquer-the-top-of-mt-fansipan-how-high-you-are-with-the-top</link>
		<comments>http://www.anepvietnam.com/conquer-the-top-of-mt-fansipan-how-high-you-are-with-the-top#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Sat, 02 Jan 2010 03:27:54 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Articles]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA['How]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Colorful Mosaic]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Conquer]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Distinctive Dress]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Ethnic Minority]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Ethnic Villages]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Evergreen Forest]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Fansipan]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[French Hill]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[High]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Hmong]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Indochina]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Jungle Rain]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Lao Cai]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Mountain Streams]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Night Train]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Outdoor Camping]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Picnic Lunch]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Rain Forest]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Sapa]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[South East Asia]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Top']]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Valley Floors]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Wild Mountain]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.anepvietnam.com/conquer-the-top-of-mt-fansipan-how-high-you-are-with-the-top</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Code:Routes:       Hanoi night train to Lao Cai – Sapa – Fansipan – Hanoi (Northwest)Duration:     4 days   Feature: Sapa is a beautiful former French hill-station. At an altitude of 1,650 m Sapa boasts warm days and cool evenings and all day fresh air. Nowadays, Sapa has become a favorite destination due to its inspiring scenery of [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Code:Routes:       Hanoi night train to Lao Cai – Sapa – Fansipan – Hanoi (Northwest)Duration:     4 days   Feature: Sapa is a beautiful former French hill-station.  At an altitude of 1,650 m Sapa boasts warm days and cool evenings and all day fresh air.  Nowadays, Sapa has become a favorite destination due to its inspiring scenery of mounatin ranges and terraced valley floors dotted with small ethnic villages.  Sapa is home to several of Vietnam’s 54 ethnic minority groups, each with their own distinctive dress, customs and dialects making it a colorful mosaic of culture. Sapa is also renowned for its trekking.  With South East Asia&#8217;s highest peak, Mt.  Fansipan (3,143 m) providing the perfect backdrop for some great trekking routes.  This 3 day trek with outdoor camping offers all of the challenges and rewards of any hike.  And, at the summit you be one of the few to have reached up and touched the clouds marking the roof of Indochina.     Itinerary in Detail: Day 1: Lao Cai – Sa Pa, hike up to an elevation of 2700mThe Night Before: Transfer from your hotel to the Hanoi Train Station for boarding at 9:30 pm.  You will be in shared AC soft sleeper cabins of 4 to travel North to Lao Cai town.  The train arrives in Lao Cai at about 6:30 am where your PanViet guide will welcome you.  Look for the “PanViet Travel” sign when you exit the train station.  Then take a morning drive through the clouds by car / bus to Sapa (about 1. 5 hours). Arrive in Sapa at 7:00 am, have breakfast, a short rest and some last preparation for the challenging hike.  Transfer by jeep / bus to the starting point at Tram Ton Pass which is 15 km from Sapa town.  Start hiking through the jungle rain forest along wild mountain streams.  Break for a picnic lunch in the middle of an evergreen forest.  More hiking to an elevation of about 2700 meters where we will make base camp.  Local Hmong porters will help us to set up camp, start a small fire and prepare dinner.  Share stories of past journeys and cultural myths under the stars before retiring for the night. Included: Car / bus, train ticket, entrance fee(s), tour guide, porter, camp, shower, permits, all meals.    Day 2: Summit and conquer Mt.  FansipanBreakfast at the first sign of daylight then final preparations for today, the longest day of hiking to the summit of Mt.  Fansipan.  The first section is steep and very challenging as we weave our way through the bamboo forests.  At some points we are even forced to use ropes and harnesses for safety.  We are rewarded with all our hardships forgotten and with the impression of standing on the top of Indochina.  After a picnic lunch and a rest at the summit, we begin our descent to base camp.  Clean off and refresh at a mountain stream while our Hmong porters set up camp and prepare dinner.  Overnight again under the stars with the satisfaction of the day&#8217;s accomplishment. Included: Entrance fee(s), homestay, tour guide, porter, camp, permits, all meals.   Day 3: Back down to Sapa.  Overnight in Hotel Upon leaving the base camp, we begin walking downhill back to Sapa town.  The steep trail is somewhat arduous but we have great opportunities to get some fantastic views from our vantage point.  See the surrounding mountains, terraced valleys and quiet hilltribe villages far in the distance.  Picnic lunch on the way, then we will be picked up in Sin Chai village and transferred back to Sapa town.  When we arrive back in Sapa we will check in to the hotel take a shower and a rest.  Your full afternoon is free in town for relaxing, shopping or befriending some of the local children.  Dinner is on your own, overnight in a hotel in Sapa town. Included: Transfer, hotel, entrance fee(s), tour guide, breakfast, lunch, porter, permits.    Day 4: Visit the surroundings of Sapa.  Night train back Hanoi  hotel then enjoy the morning with some of your new friends that you may have met the afternoon before.  Today your guide is available to you for the whole day, although, you have the entire day for free time and visiting the lively markets.  Some suggestions include a visit to the orchid gardens of Dragon Mountain, or a cultural day trek to Taphin village.  In late afternoon, depart from your hotel for the Lao Cai train station at 5:30 pm.  The train leaves Lao Cai at 8:50 pm and arrives after a pleasant sleep in your first class, shared AC soft berth to Hanoi by 4:30 am.  Please find your own way to your hotel, a taxi normally costs you a set of 50,000 VND. Included: Car / bus, train ticket, tour guide, breakfast, lunch, dinner.  Group size &amp; Cost: Your group size (cost is per person)                            4- 6          7 -10       11 &#8211; 14      14 -16 First class            300           267          239           228 Superior                317          284           256           245 Deluxe                  356          323           295           284 * S. S is used for Single Supplement, means the single using his/her own room. Excluded: Insurance, drinks, other personal expenses, tips are welcome!  </p>
]]></content:encoded>
			<wfw:commentRss>http://www.anepvietnam.com/conquer-the-top-of-mt-fansipan-how-high-you-are-with-the-top/feed</wfw:commentRss>
		<slash:comments>0</slash:comments>
		</item>
		<item>
		<title>The real dirt bike on the northwest, Vietnam</title>
		<link>http://www.anepvietnam.com/the-real-dirt-bike-on-the-northwest-vietnam</link>
		<comments>http://www.anepvietnam.com/the-real-dirt-bike-on-the-northwest-vietnam#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Thu, 17 Dec 2009 09:23:36 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Articles]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[bike]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Binh Son]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Cup Of Tea]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Dien Bien Phu]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[dirt]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Dirt Bike]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Dirt Bikes]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Dramatic Landscapes]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Green Tea]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Hoa Binh]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Honda West]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Intimate Affair]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Lao Cai]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Magnificent Views]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Mountainous Provinces]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Mountains And Valleys]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[northwest]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Northwest Region]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[real]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Rice Paddies]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Rugged Region]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Son La Province]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Stilt Houses]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Tea Plantations]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Vietnam]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.anepvietnam.com/the-real-dirt-bike-on-the-northwest-vietnam</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Motorbike trip is wonderful for those who have good health and like more adventure in their travels. Bike tours to the rugged region offer a more direct experience of the life of its people. It is probably not everyone’s cup of tea, but discovering Vietnam’s rugged and scenic northwest on a motorbike is more than [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Motorbike trip is wonderful for those who have good health and like more adventure in their travels.  Bike tours to the rugged region offer a more direct experience of the life of its people. It is probably not everyone’s cup of tea, but discovering Vietnam’s rugged and scenic northwest on a motorbike is more than an exhilarating experience. Those who have undertaken it say it enables them to see “life as it truly is for the Vietnamese people. ”Dramatic landscapes and sweeping panoramas become more direct and intense when the visitor is not enclosed within a vehicle.  Watching the rural population doing about its business also becomes a more intimate affair. “We started the itinerary to four mountainous provinces – Hoa Binh, Son La, Dien Bien, Lao Cai – in the northwest region with a 130 km ride to Mai Chau,” said Andre Prince, who took the 7-day journey with six friends from Canada. Together with a tour guide, they left Hanoi at 8:30 a. m.  and rode the dirt-bikes (175cc and 250cc Yamaha and Honda) west to Mai Chau, home to the Thai ethnic minority. They traveled on road No.  6 passing expansive rice paddies and scenic villages and stopped for refreshment before tackling 70km of undulating roads with great views of mountains and valleys before reaching Mai Chau at noon. “We were really impressed by the traditional stilt-houses, the dances and meals at Pom Coong, a village of the White Thai ethnic minority,” said Andre. The group left for Son La Province the next morning. Kien, the tour guide, said the motorbike trip of about 1,000 km is wonderful for those who have good health and like more adventure in their travels.  The tour is also great for finding several vantage spots for photography, he added. Besides the tea plantations in Moc Chau Plateau – the destination of the best green tea in Vietnam that grows along the roads on the hillsides in Son La, the valley of Dien Bien Phu also offers magnificent views. Here “the ride is more adventurous with more winding roads and longer passes, while offering more colorful minority groups and more stunning scenery,” said Andre, adding that the highlight of Dien Bien Province could be the impressive Pha DinPass, which means Heaven-Earth.  According to local legend, it was the frontier between Heaven and Earth.  Pha Din is some 1,000m above sea-level. “Climbing and descending the slopes with their many bends and deep gorges is a really unforgettable experience,” Andre said. The fourth day was scheduled for Lao Cai, where stops at H’mong and Dao villages refreshed the crew after a 225 km ride along stunning gorges and the Nam Na River. Fittingly, Sa Pa was the pinnacle of the trip, where the group stayed for two days and visited several ethnic minority villages deep in the forest. “Sa Pa is a paradise for trekking lovers.  It has so many routes with views of beautiful terraced fields, diverse minority groups and the highest peak in Indochina, the Fansipan. ”The group also got off their bikes to take a jeep ride downhill to the Muong Hoa Valley, where they trekked on dirt paths through pine forest, terraced fields and H’mong villages.  En route they stopped to visit minority schools and had a picnic lunch by the river. TOUR INFORMATIONHanoi – Hoa Binh – Son La – Dien Bien – Lao Cai – Hanoi7-day trip with 5 days of motorcyclingMotorcycling grade: Moderate to ChallengingFrom US$546 per personContact: Active Travel Vietnam Email: info@activetravel. asiaHead office: 31 Alley 4, Dang Van Ngu St. , HanoiOperation office: 367 Ngo Quyen St. , Son Tra Dist. , Da NangOperation office: 50 Bis Co Bac St. , Dist.  1, HCMCSupport number (24/7 service): + 84 &#8211; 4 &#8211; 3 573 8569Reported by Hoang Kien/ThanhniennewsRelated sites:Motorcycling Vietnam Travel Guide Motorcycling tours in Vietnam </p>
]]></content:encoded>
			<wfw:commentRss>http://www.anepvietnam.com/the-real-dirt-bike-on-the-northwest-vietnam/feed</wfw:commentRss>
		<slash:comments>0</slash:comments>
		</item>
		<item>
		<title>Quan Ba Extreme Northeast Trekking Tour 11days,vietnam Trekking Tours,</title>
		<link>http://www.anepvietnam.com/quan-ba-extreme-northeast-trekking-tour-11daysvietnam-trekking-tours</link>
		<comments>http://www.anepvietnam.com/quan-ba-extreme-northeast-trekking-tour-11daysvietnam-trekking-tours#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Mon, 21 Sep 2009 20:01:29 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Articles]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Adult Literacy]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Adventure Lover]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Border Province]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Chinese Border]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Cook Stoves]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Development Partnership]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Domestic Water Supply]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Dramatic Scenery]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Ethnic Minority Villages]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Extreme Northeast]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Forest Gardens]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Hill Tribe]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Indigenous Cultures]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Lao Cai]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Muong Khuong]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Northernmost Province]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Picturesque Villages]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[S Committee]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Sustainable Livelihoods]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Vietnam Trekking Tours]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.anepvietnam.com/quan-ba-extreme-northeast-trekking-tour-11daysvietnam-trekking-tours</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Detail ItineraryWhat to expect:Ha Giang&#8217;s(Quang Ba) This is a sustainable trek that supports local communities in a deprived region in the extreme northern province of Ha Giang.Quan Ba district remains one of the poorest districts in Vietnam. It is located in the remote rocky limestone mountainous region of Ha Giang, the northernmost province of Vietnam. [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><strong>Detail Itinerary</strong><br/><br/><strong>What to expect:</strong><br/><br/><strong>Ha Giang&#8217;s</strong>(Quang Ba) This is a sustainable trek that supports local communities in a deprived region in the extreme northern province of Ha Giang.<br/><br/>Quan Ba district remains one of the poorest districts in Vietnam. It is located in the remote rocky limestone mountainous region of Ha Giang, the northernmost province of Vietnam. 97% of the local populations are minority’ people &#8211; Hmong, Dao, Tay, Nung, Giay, and Bo Y. Most speak their own languages, which do not yet have written scripts.<br/><br/>Caritas Switzerland and Caritas Luxembourg are two charities that have entered into a development partnership with the District People’s Committee. The Caritas agencies aim to support a development process “to build sustainable livelihoods for the poorest people and the poorest communities”. The project began in mid-2003, and included supporting sustainable agriculture, forest gardens, domestic water supply, adult literacy, indigenous cultures, improved cook stoves, and responsible tourism.<br/><br/>The villagers have prepared a simple ‘Code of Conduct’ which Green Trail Tours should consider before their visit to demonstrate their commitment to protect local culture and environment. By participating on this trek a Green Trail Tours will be directly supporting the livelihoods of the communities they visit.<br/><br/><strong><br/><br/>Bac Ha </strong>This exciting trek offers a true experience of unspoiled remote villages in the border province of Lao Cai. The dramatic scenery, picturesque villages nestled into the sides of Thang Phin Mountain, and colourful ethnic minority groups can captivate any adventure lover’s heart. Begin at Lao Cai and trek along the Chinese border to Muong Khuong Valley through remote H’Mong, Tay and Nung ethnic minority villages. Ascend to Can Cau and Bac Ha to observe colorful Saturday and Sunday markets, the most vibrant in the province, where hundreds of hill tribe people from different groups gather to exchange their wares. End a challenging trek with a boat trip o­n the scenic Chay River.<br/><br/>Green Trail Tours is known for customized adventures trips and the above is a sample trekking tour only. That can be flexible, customizable and subject to weather conditions and other circumstances. If you have any ideas, suggestions or comments, please do not hesitate to <strong>contact us</strong>.<br/><br/><strong>Note:<br/><br/><strong>Should I purchase insurance?</strong></strong><br/><br/>Yes! This must cover medical care and emergency evacuation/repatriation. Also keep hardcopy of emergency contact numbers as well as insurance policy number.<br/><br/><strong>What are the main vaccination and health procedures?</strong><br/><br/>Before travel please consult a general practitioner for up to date advice on recommended vaccines and malaria prophylaxis. <strong>Is there anything I can do to better prepare for a situation requiring first aid?</strong><br/><br/>All guides have basic first aid training and carry a small first aid kit. But each client should also bring personal first aid supplies including antiseptic wipes, antiseptic liquid/cream, steristrips, sterile gauze and bandage as well as oral dehydration sachets.<br/><br/><strong>What about the weather?</strong><br/><br/>The climate is hot and humid throughout with some variation between North and South. The South is tropical and warm throughout the year. Hanoi is cooler from November to February with a pronounced wet season in the centre of the country from September to October. For biking, September, October, November, March, April and May are the best times ? not so hot and dry enough! Be prepared for anything, though. (That?s part of the fun.)<br/><br/><strong>What gear do I need?</strong><br/><br/>The objective is to stay cool in hot weather and warm in cool weather. Plan accordingly. Basic items are lightweight walking boots; water bottle, eye protection; lightweight shirt and trousers; waterproof jacket; mosquito repellent; sun hat; shorts; sandals; sheet sleeping bag; strong sunscreen; torch; towel; fleece; small backpack for day use; biodegradable toiletries; swimming gear. All of these things are indispensable.<br/><br/><strong>What can I do to improve safety on my trip?</strong><br/><br/>Safety is our most important consideration. Be aware that trekking can be dangerous and accidents can happen. You can never do too much to look out for yourself. Always notify the guide if you feel sick particularly at altitude. And if you don’t know, ask?<br/><br/><strong>What are the accommodations?</strong><br/><br/>We provide two-person tents with sewn-in ground sheets and mosquito nets in the Northwest of the country. Accommodation is mostly in local village homestays. Here the family may supply a simple mattress, mosquito net, pillow, sheet and blanket. Or in the case of more remote locations, bedding will be provided by TITC. The houses are usually on stilts with a bamboo floor? Surprisingly comfortable! The facilities are clean but very basic.<br/><br/><strong>What sort of transport and support are available?</strong><br/><br/>All equipment and luggage will be carried by porters or by jeep. Please try to keep baggage to a minimum weight. Often a cook will accompany the tour. Depending on the nature of the trek, there will be a private air-conditioned bus, minibus or jeep for transfer between destinations.<br/><br/><strong>Do these tours support responsible travel?</strong><br/><br/>Yes! We try to make sure that these holidays are as socially, economically and environmentally sound as possible. We are affiliate members of the Environmental Certification Green Globe 21 Scheme. Our goal is to deliver biking tours that do not contribute to the destruction of Vietnam’s unique cultural and natural environment.<br/><br/><strong>Day1: Hanoi &#8211; Lao Cai</strong><br/><br/>Arrive Hanoi. Enjoy the sights and sounds of the Old Quarter. Located on an area of 100 ha, the Old Quarter is home to more than 1,000 traditional houses and has 36 streets named after specific merchants’ crafts and trade. Overnight on board the train to Lao Cai. <strong>(D)</strong><br/><br/><strong>Day2: Lao Cai &#8211; Bac Ha</strong><br/><br/>Drive through the famous market town of Bac Ha and beyond over one of Vietnam’s highest road passes. This is a full day in the vehicle, though there’s no time to get bored as the scenery is truly breathtaking. <strong>(B, L,D)</strong><br/><br/><strong>Day3: Bac Ha &#8211; Hoang Su Phi &#8211; Ha Giang</strong><br/><br/>Upon leaving Bac Ha we set off on a full day journey through Sin Man and Hoang Su Phi to  Ha Giang Town. The rough but scenic route traverses a dense jungle before crossing over a pass and dropping down to Sin Man. This day is a real challenge for our driver as we travel by winding roads with many uphill and down hill drives. Along the way we may encounter the Nung Ing, Tay, Red Dao, Dao Ao Dai, La Chi and Co Lao, just some of the many hill tribe groups who have settled there. O/N in Ha Giang. <strong>(B, L,D)</strong><br/><br/><strong>Day4</strong>: <strong>Ha Giang &#8211; Khau Lan </strong><br/><br/>9.00 am You have the opportunity to participate a guided tour in the Ha Giang museum followed by an early lunch.<br/><br/>12.30 am. The guides pick you up at the hotel and you travel by Transfer to the commune Centre in Quyet Tien. There from you will walk about 3 hours to Khau Lan village, passing green paddy fields, little villages and beautiful forests. In Khau Lan &#8211; the Dao people, you meet the village leader and your host families.<br/><br/>Arround 6.30 pm. All the tour members will have dinner at one family and split later to spend the night in three or four different host families. <strong>(B,L,D)</strong><br/><br/><strong>Day5: </strong><strong>Khau Lan Trekking</strong><br/><br/>Discard your watches here….<br/><br/>Khau Lan is a small village of the Dao people. You have the unique opportunity to share the daily life of your host family, which might include working in the fields, fetching wood, cutting grass for the livestock and cooking meals. Depending on the activity, you have lunch on different spots, outside the village.<br/><br/>After another local meal for dinner, you might spend the evening sitting together around a fire, discussing and laughing with the local people then you will spend another night at your host family&#8217;s house.  <strong>(B,L,D)</strong><br/><br/><strong>Day6: Khau Lan &#8211; Lang Tan  </strong><br/><br/>After breakfast and farewell with the hosts, you take another trail back to Quyet Tien commune center, passing beautiful caves, streams and forests. The Transfer bring you to Quan Ba District town, where you have about 2 hours time to take a shower and relax in the district guesthouse or take a walk through the small town.<br/><br/>Around 2 pm. Your guides will pick you up to travel by Transfer to Thanh Van Commune. After a short walk (30 minutes) you will arrive in Lang Tan village.<br/><br/>Lang Tan is a small village of Hmong people. The village is placed in rugged mountains which makes planting rice difficult. In order to increase their income, the villagers developed a special maize wine production.<br/><br/>After you have met the village leader and your second host family, then there is plenty of time is available to walk around in the pretty village and meet the people. In the evening the group will enjoy a local dinner and sleep in Hmong style houses. <strong>(B,L,D)</strong><br/><br/><strong>Day7: Lang Tan Trekking</strong><br/><br/>On this day you can choose one out of two options:<br/><br/><strong>option01</strong>: Includes a 5-6 hours trek in so far uncharted territory. Together with a Footprint guide and a local pathfinder you walk over hills and through forests, villages of Hmong and Dao people to Can Ty Commune where the Transfer is waiting for you. The car takes you through beautifully landscape to Dong Van Town, visiting the vestige of Hmong kingdom on route.<br/><br/><strong>option02</strong>: Includes a longer stay in Lang Tan village watching the local people producing the maize wine instead of more trekking. In the afternoon the Transfer picks you up and drives you to Dong Van, where you meet the rest of the group.<br/><br/>Around 6.30 pm. All the members of the tour check-in a small hotel in Dong Van and take dinner in a local restaurant.<strong>(B,L,D)</strong><br/><br/><strong>Day8: Lang Tan &#8211; Quan Ba passing Meo Vac</strong><br/><br/>The Transfer take you through a beautiful landscape of rolling and imposing mountains and steep valleys leading from Dong Van to Meo Vac District. This is the most remote corner of Vietnam, where the traditional life of ethnic minority people is the most vivid and colorful. After lunch in Yen Minh town, the cars take you to Hop Tien village.<br/><br/>In Hop Tien you can visit a hemp cooperative, where local people explain and demonstrate the traditional hemp production (including dyeing with natural colors, weaving and decorating).<br/><br/>Around 5.30pm. You will travel back to Quan Ba town, where you check in the comfortable district guesthouse.<br/><br/>At 6.30 pm you go out for dinner in a local restaurant before you spend the night in the guesthouse.<strong> (B,L,D)</strong><br/><br/><strong>Day9: Quang Ba Trekking</strong><br/><br/>After a local breakfast you will have time to visit the very colorful market in Quan Ba town. On this market you will see people from different ethnic minority groups, which walk all the way from their mountain villages to Quan Ba town, in order to trade items and meet other people.<br/><br/>12.00 am. You will have dinner in a local restaurant in Quan Ba town. 6.30 pm Dinner in a local restaurant in Quan Ba town and overnight in the district guesthouse. <strong>(B,L,D)</strong><br/><br/><strong>Day10: Quang Ba &#8211; Hanoi</strong><br/><br/>In Quan Ba visit an incredible local market. Different minority people descend from their mountain villages to trade items and meet other people. Begin the drive back to Hanoi <strong>(B,L,D)</strong><br/><br/><strong>Day11: Hanoi – Departure</strong><br/><br/>today we have free time to explore city by your own until transfer to airport for your departure.<strong>(B,..,..D)</strong><br/><br/><br/><br/><br />
<em>By: <strong>dungnv</strong></em><br/><br/></p>
]]></content:encoded>
			<wfw:commentRss>http://www.anepvietnam.com/quan-ba-extreme-northeast-trekking-tour-11daysvietnam-trekking-tours/feed</wfw:commentRss>
		<slash:comments>0</slash:comments>
		</item>
	</channel>
</rss>

