Bac Ha (Lao
Cai) is well-known for its naturally sub-tropical scenery. Tam Hoa
plums are really a local specialty: sweet and fresh. This seems to be
created by its own land, people and nature.
Average temperature here is
19°C and it's not so cold as in Sa Pa. Bac Ha is specifically identified
by each mount, each house and naturally-made carpet of white
plum-flowers in spring. There are 14 ethnic minorities and the Mong
ethnics count for 47% then the Dao, Tay, Nung... Mountaineers take care
of their horses as their properties, means of transport and close
friends.
Besides plums,
Bac Ha is reputed for its alcohol (made of maize). Maize is grown on
high mountains, its low in productivity but high in nutrition. To make
alcohol, it's fermented with Hong My seed (the local only plant). Bac Ha
alcohol is well-known due to its source of water. So it's surely
believed never to have faulted one in Bac Ha market. Visitors can see
the locals selling their own alcohol without feelings to be cheated.
Brocades are for
sales in the market or in shops or by street-vendors. There are
hand-made or manufactured products. It takes a village-girl even half a
month to make a brocade of 20cm long. Their skirts or costumes cost them
long time to make. Their dresses express their patience, skills.
Visitors can see the girls making brocades right in the market.
Traditional
values and identities are well-maintained in the market. Such markets as
Bac Ha, Coc Ly have really become rendezvous for visitors at home and
abroad. There is almost no bargaining or competition here. Sales girls
look quite naive, sincere. They go to the market mainly to meet people
and exchange funs. Especially, there is a horse market in town-centre,
each market-day there are almost 100 - 200 horses for sales or exchange.
Mong or Tay or
Dao ethnics’ minority girls and boys, with their best dresses on, go to
the market to relax and meet their friends. At sunset, they leave with a
promise to see again.
Visitors to Bac
Ha are opportune to understand the local traditions and customs, taste
local specialties, meet nice people and know a land code-named: white
plateau.
NOTE: We will make the good trip for you to Bac Ha market
together with trekking to ethnic villages in Sapa. The price will be
given if the guests request this package tour.