If you want to see stirring rice fields, tranquil scenes and the real everyday life of Vietnamese people, Mai Chau is definitely the place you should go.
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Nestled among the mountains, Mai Chau is a perfect compromise for travelers that don't have time to make it to Sapa but are still keen to experience some ethnic minorities and a mountain part of the country. It is about 135 km south west of Hanoi, close enough to the capital to be a popular overnight or weekend trip for travelers.
Many of the Mai Chau people have Thai ancestry as a large number of Thai people migrated to the area several hundred years ago. The local people are very friendly, they are also not pushy when it comes to selling souvenirs. What can be more beautiful than meeting with locals that don’t want you to buy something from them?
The most popular type of accommodation here is stilt houses. Such houses run by local families, who welcome you very warmly once you have arrived. Usually as a part of welcoming the head of family will offer you a celebratory drink. It’s a sign of friendship when offered a small shot of rice wine. But be careful, because this thing can be dangerously strong! Don’t forget to say “Mot, Hai, Ba, Dzo!” It is the ubiquitous phrase for “1,2,3, Cheers!” in Vietnamese. The locals will absolutely love that.
Mountains, rice fields and caves are calling to be explored. Just rent a bicycle and get ready for the adventures. Don’t be afraid to get lost, the local people are always happy to help. Even they don’t speak any English, you can rest assured that you’ll find a way to communicate.
After an active day of exploring the little villages, we recommend you to spend sunset hours in the Sunset Bar, Pom Coong Village. It is a great way to chill out and enjoy the scenery. The views from the bar up the valley and across the rice fields are sensational at that time.
Mai Chau is so different to hectic and busy Hanoi. It is a place where you can relax and escape from the worries of everyday life. Coming to Mai Chau valley to experience the charming local village, beautiful landscape, and authentic North Vietnam tribal region of Mai Chau for yourself.
