ACCOMMODATIONS

Where’s the view? That’s what everyone staying in Sapa wants to know. There are many budget and mid-range hotels on and off Cau May St, south of the main square, before it bends left, then straight south (as Muong Hoa St), down into the valley. Most plug their views, but be sure you pick one on the valley side of the street (to the west).

The best area is around Mountain View (see Under $25) where Cau May St breaks left. Older hotels are on the inland side of Cau May and Muong Hoa Sts, with newer hotels blocking some views.

Hotels are listed by preference in these three budget groups:

OVER $100
$25 TO $100
UNDER $25

BEST VIEWS

• TOPAS ECO-LODGE (see Over $100)
• MOUNTAIN VIEW (see Under $25)
• CAT CAT (see Under $25)

Note: As elsewhere in Vietnam, mid-range hotels are woefully underrepresented (or poor value), but I have a couple here to consider.