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DIRECTIONS:
Start in Hanoi. Go to: Mai Chau, Son La, Dien Bien Phu, Lai Chau, Sapa, Lao Cai, and back to Hanoi.
THINGS TO LOOK FOR:
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- This loop will take you through some of the most spectacular scenery in all of Vietnam - waterfalls, high mountain passes, picturesque villages, hanging bridges... keep your nose glued to the windowpane.
- South of the mountain passes the native houses are generally up on stilts with polished bamboo floors. Further north they hit the ground with a thump and acquire muddy dirt floors.
- As far as I can tell, only the French think Dien Bien Phu is worth the trip.
- There are Sunday markets in most of the little villages. They are so spectacular that they are worth arranging your trip around.
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SURVIVAL TIPS:
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If the words "provincial capital" bring to mind thoughts of hot showers, cheese, chocolate, or any of the minor luxuries one usually associates with large towns and cities, think again.
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The passes are verrrry cold in the winter. Bring warm clothes.
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The passes are very high at all times of the year. Bring a durable motorbike, car, or jeep. If you are mountain biking bring a durable pair of legs. If you are busing it bring a courageous soul - the buses often burn out their brakes on the way down.
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