Highlights:
• Spectacular scenery during drive from Hanoi to Mai Chau
• Enjoy music and dance performance of Thai people
• Homestay in the house on stilts of very hospitable Thai people
• Visit hill-tribal Montagnards.
Day 1 Hanoi – Mai Chau
You will be picked up from your hotel between 8:30am. Our trip starts with a
transfer from Hanoi to Mai Chau, approximately 3 hours. Our journey takes us
from the hectic Hanoi to the clean air of the mountains surrounding Mai Chau
valley. We stop at a vantage point to take in the serene view of Mai Chau, home
to a variety of minority groups with their own unique culture and languages. The
break presents a great photo opportunity.
Upon arrival in Mai Chau we head to the village of Pom Coong where our local
guide will introduce us to our hosts for lunch and provide information on the
region's people, their lifestyles, customs and culture. Lunch is a traditional
affair with examples of local cuisine on offer. This is a great opportunity to
really experience the local area, chat with our hosts and gain a real insight
into local life in the area.!
The remainder of your day is at leisure to explore this fascinating valley.
Meal inclusions: Lunch and dinner
Overnight: At homestay in village
Day 2 Mai Chau exploration
Mai Chau valley is inhabited by White Thai people, The houses are quite large
with palm leaf roofs and polished bamboo-slat floors. The kitchen is located in
the center of the house; the cooking as well as the making of the colorful tho
cam, the material used by Thai minority to make their clothes, takes place in
the kitchen. The windows are large and decorated with patterns. Each house also
has a pond to breed fish.
Following breakfast, we visit nearby villages, a popular option is to a bicycle
and take a photograph trip around the valley, with plenty of photo stops among
the majestic scenery and chances to interact with the locals. The pace is
relaxed and the ride takes place on the flat terrain of the beautiful Mai Chau
valley – we cycle by green rice fields surrounded by stunning mountains on all
sides, a simply breathtaking experience.
We return to your homestay and relax with a cold drink while watching the sun
set over the peaceful mountains. After dinner we have a unique opportunity to
witness a cultural show performed by some of the White Thai villagers (not
included). Keeping traditional song and dance alive, this is a casual affair,
you may even be invited to participate and share in some of the dancing or to
enjoy the local rice wine!
Meal inclusions: Breakfast, lunch and dinner
Overnight: At homestay in village
Mai Chau – Ha Noi
Following breakfast we stroll around Pom Coong village before saying goodbye to
our friendly host and embark on the return drive to Hanoi. You will have a
chance to visit Hoa Binh hydro power plant on the way. We will arrive in Hanoi
around midday!
Meal inclusions: Breakfast and lunch.
