Last week, Taurin and I took an overnight train from Hanoi for a trekking trip through highland villages nearby Sapa, Northwest Vietnam. We were mostly with the Black Hmong community, distinguished by their dark, indigo-dyed clothing. Our new friends taught us how to walk along hidden paths that weave through the mountains and terraced rice paddies. At the Hmong village, we didn’t have electricity at night, but it was wonderful to see all the stars in the sky and fall asleep early to the sound of breeze softly blowing against the wooden house.
I met a small kitten.
I loved seeing all the hand-embroidered textiles.
Taurin and me on the mountain.
Water buffalos.
A little Hmong girl named Jo.
Tiny paths along the mountain.
Me looking sweaty but happy with a new friend.
We picked some wild herbs with Little Zao for lunch.
The village where we spent the evening.
Indigo plant in a barrel.
Indigo paste!
Colorful Hmong textile, embroidered by hand.
I really liked riding the rustic Vietnamese trains, especially because we opted for the comfortable soft-sleeper train with AC. I slept through the entire ride until we arrived back in Hanoi. I dreamt about mountains!
that kit tie is so awesome!!
Wow, what a wonderful landscape!
And all the people there seem to be really friendly and open, too
Hailey from http://squidsquads.blogspot.com
stunning views!!
it´s interesting to have a sight of the rural part of Vietnam too. Its landscapes, people, customs…
Thanks for sharing this beautiful trip with us!
stella
xo
Absolutely gorgeous – your photography is exceptional!
I will be “officially” living in Taiwan in September. You inspire me to visit such a place (hey, the place is closer from Taiwan than from South Florida).
if you like the mountians, I recommend you going to Taitung, Taiwan. I have pictures somewhat of the place in my blog. It’s beautiful. I can’t wait to go to Orchid Island, though.
I like your new haircut. It fits your face very well.
The kitten looks exactly like my childhood cat. I miss him.
such a nice trip…Is good for relaxing place and full of adventures.
3lin
dreaming about mountains, aw ! I heart rail travel too.
All of these photos are so gorgeous! My best friend is Vietnamese and someday I will tag along on one of her trips there. These pictures make me want to go tomorrow! (Well, your pictures usually make me want to visit whichever country you’re in, but these especially.)
what breathtaking landscapes Sewon! the people look so happy! it must be an amazing trip…
Thanks for sharing! Such wonderful photos! My favourite one is the indigo plant, never seen that before! Enjoy your trip!
So beautiful and green. Make me really wish I could visit Vietnam sometimes soon!
Beautiful photos! Mus have been a lovely trip. Thanks for sharing! I just love Hmong textiles! My co-bloger has the most beautiful collection!
Have a nice day!
This is Awesome. The pictures are great, the location is great. I like your style, Sewong!
I don’t know why I put the extra g in your name. Sorry.
I want those mountains in my backyard…
adorable kitten too
such pretty textiles! and the nature looks amaziiing too
enjoy your holiday, Sewon! i’m excited to read / see more
wow! the greeness! i love it! i need to ride a train like that someday
HI Sewon! Wow! Looks like you’re having a good time in Vietnam! These lovely photos really make me wanna fly there soon. And I love trains too.
Your photographs are seriously breathtaking. Truly gorgeous.
oh sewon. how wonderufl of you to share this beautiful part of world.
is thsi your honeymooon trip?
must have been so great to visit places filled with natural green
and smiling happy people. i think the yout photo with smiling lady
behind you so memorable and love that shot.
enjoy rest of your summer and thanks for shraing these
wondrful images.