10 Aug 2019
I arrived in Sapa after taking an overnight bus from Hanoi, and I met a friend of Pham's in Sapa who took me trekking through the mountains back to the village, where I stayed with Pham for 3 days and 2 nights. This trek was unlike trekking anywhere else I had been - hiking through the mountains, seeing the rice and corn fields, the orchid farms, water buffalo, and more!
Pham is a very welcoming host, and her English is quite good, which made communication simple for me. She prepared a nice supper and understood that I have food allergies and was able to accommodate that. I had my own room at her place with a comfy mattress, and I slept well after the long trek. Pham was very responsive over email as I planned the trip, and everything was well organized when I arrived.
If traveling in July, be prepared for heat and rain. A large water bottle and waterproof hiking boots will come in handy.