Sapa is located at the foothills of Vietnam's northern mountain range at an altitude of 1,600 metres. In the early 20th century, the French took advantage of Sapa's cool climate, developing it into a summer retreat from the heat and humidity of Hanoi.
At that time, there were more French people living in Sapa than Vietnamese. Today, Sapa retains its European feel, largely because of the remnants of French buildings, gardens and roads that populate this alpine city.
Sapa was originally home to the Black Hmong ethnic minorities. With the arrival of the French and, more recently, the growth of tourism, many of the hill tribes have moved away from Sapa's city centre into the surrounding hill country. Still, ethnic minorities often come to Sapa's main market to sell weavings and artwork.
Sapa has become a destination for travellers seeking adventure. It is a staging point for trekking at Mount Fansipan, Vietnam's highest mountain, and for motorcycle trips into the wild hill country. Extended treks to visit villages of minority tribes are also available
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