Bac Ha Market
Some 100km (62 miles) from Sapa, this is the most famous market in the region and more along the lines of what Sapa was once like. Here, various hilltribes converge every Sunday morning to conduct commerce. As a visitor, you're part of the trade here because folks are keen to sell you their wares, but this market isn't as much about the tourist buck (yet) as it is about small-time business and fellowship. Bring a camera. Sunday morning from dawn to late morning is prime time, but the market continues until about noon. Most visitors make the 3-hour drive from Sapa in the early morning.

Cat Cat Village
At the base of the hill below the town of Sapa, this Hmong village is accessible by rough-paved road most of the way, and cement path for the rest. The small waterfall here is a good spot to kick back and rest -- quite dynamic in rainy season. From there, follow the narrow cement walkway up a long set of steps until the path terminates in another part of Cat Cat Village. From there you can hop on a waiting motorbike taxi (usually a Minsk) for the ride back up to Sapa (10,000 VND/65¢). The trip can be made in just a few hours and offers a unique glimpse of rural life. Some travelers walk the whole valley top to bottom and back -- a good way to get your lungs up to speed for later treks in the valley.

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As you walk through different hilltribe villages (Hmong and Dao people), it's helpful to have a guide to explain customs or practices to you and perhaps translate. You're sure to see other tourists on the trail (which puts many people off), but this is a good example of the many great treks in the area; ask at your hotel front desk, or contact Topas Travel for longer, less touristy treks. You'll still be greeted with a hearty "Bonjour, madam! Bonjour, monsieur!" wherever you go.

Ta Phin Village and Cave
Okay, so this one is a bit canned. You'll be mobbed at the entrance to the village by young Dao women in their elaborate regalia, high red headdresses and all, selling weavings and other wares. The ladies will keep an eye on your motorbike or car for you and offer to take you on a guided tour "for free," with only the hope that you'll perhaps look at some of their items for sale at the end of the tour. The ladies of Ta Phin are nice enough -- some speak English well and can provide some useful insight into Dao and Hmong culture -- but the whole experience is a bit pushy. At the end of it, you're expected to drop a big wad of dough on some pretty pathetic-looking weavings. Not worth it. Best to just say "No, thank you" to offers of a village tour.

The cave at the apex of the town requires a guide with a lantern to lead you through, but one is rarely available. Bring your own flashlight to explore deep in the cave.

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Fansipan

The topography of Fansipan is varied. Muong Hoa Valley, at the lowest altitude (950-1,000m), is created by a narrow strip of land at the base on the east side of the mountain. It can be climbed in a steep and fairly strenuous hike.