Yet another early start – up at 5.30am! 3 one-nighters are taking their toll – & not just on us – I felt jetlagged & exhausted after so many fast changes + long journeys, so much so that we left our passports in hotel safe, & coach had to go round a very busy city block for us to retrieve!! Fortunately everyone was very understanding, since they realised it could easily have been them.
But ... today one of the longest journeys ... 5 hr coach journey to Sapa, our mountain (and final) resort, at about 3,000ft.
1st view of terraces
A much bigger town than expected with some narrow twisting roads. A curious mix of tribes in local dress selling their wares, and Western hotels from luxury to hostels. After hurried arrival at hotel, a delicious lunch was served by women in local dress.
1st view of mountains from Sapa
Unexpected development: after accident between large lorry & smaller vehicle, we were stuck in minibus in logjam for some time. 2 police came running down road eventually, + apparently both drivers would have to pay for their attendance!
Our afternoon programme had to be quickly adjusted, but still had 2 treats: we had a Batik demonstration then we all tried it; drew with hot wax, later to be dipped in indigo dye from local plants – a lovely absorbing experience, even if only 20 minutes to decide what to do, learn to handle the flat painting tool and then construct a finished design. The finished items were to be delivered to our hotel. 2nd treat was a herbal footbath from herbs in farmer’s plot on terraces.
Look out for passing traffic!
Batik expert
First go at new craft!
Applying beeswax
Charlie had a go too!
Young girl in part-traditional dress
The sun’s beginning to set ...
