Mai Chau is in northern Vietnam, about 140km southwest of Hanoi and 80km or so from the Laos border. It’s a small town in mountainous Hoa Binh province surrounded by limestone cliffs and green rice paddies, populated largely by members of the ethnic White Thai tribe. It’s not as popular as Sapa where you get the same experience, but verdant rice fields surround the town on all sides while dramatic hills rise up on either side of the valley, offering breathtaking views around every corner. There are also several interesting markets to check out as well as some nearby caves. It gets uncomfortably hot in June/July, but the surrounding vegetation is at its brightest green in February-May, and turns a lovely golden brown in October/November. The only way to get to Mai Chau directly is by private car hired in Hanoi. Buses head to nearby Hoa Binh, though, and from there one can arrange bus or motorbike transport. Traveller tips: Many visitors recommend renting bicycles to explore the town – or motorbikes. The Sunday market is also popular, which sees vendors from around the area.
Posted on: Sun, 04 Aug 2013 01:10:24 +0000
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