sapa field trip report

Natural attractions Fansipan Mountain Fansipan Mountain is situated in the Hoang Lien Son Mountain Range in the Lao Cai Province of Northwestern Vietnam, roughly 9 kilometers southwest o

MINISTRY OF EDUCATION AND TRAINING NATIONAL ECONOMICS UNIVERSITY ADVANCED EDUCATION PROGRAMS

SAPA FIELD TRIP REPORT

Student: Vu Ngoc Ha Vy

Student ID: 11207505

Supervisor: Dr Hoang Thi Thu Huong

TABLE OF CONTENTS

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OPENING

Sa Pa, a popular travel destination in Vietnam, has been attracting significant

tourism traffic since 2015-2020 due to its abundant natural resources and cultural

specialties The tourism and hospitality business in Sa Pa is focused on sustainable

development, aligning with the national economy's goals However, challenges in

Vietnam's destination and attraction management, such as over-tourism,

environmental waste, or limited tourism infrastructure has hindered the town's

development as a potential travel destination A survey trip to Sa Pa, Lao Cai was

conducted by the Tourism and Hospitality Faculty of National Economics University

to assist students in studying Sa Pa's travel destination management practices

CHAPTER 1: ANALYSIS AND ASSESSMENT OF SIX BASIC

COMPONENTS OF SAPA DESTINATION

1.1 Attractions

1.1.1 Natural attractions

Fansipan Mountain

Fansipan Mountain is situated in the Hoang Lien Son Mountain Range in the Lao Cai

Province of Northwestern Vietnam, roughly 9 kilometers southwest of Sapa Town

With a height of 3,143 meters above sea level, Fansipan Height is the tallest mountain

in both Vietnam and Indochina

At the peak, the typical summer temperature is 15-20 degrees Celsius, and the winter

temperature can dip to below freezing The mountain is renowned for its great

biodiversity and complex ecology, which include numerous uncommon plant and

animal species that are unique to the area

Pictures 1.1 Fansipan Mountain

Muong Hoa Valley

Muong Hoa Valley, located in Hau Thao commune, attracts tourists due to its natural

beauty and is open year-round, especially from March to May The valley is known

for its verdant rice terraces, pleasant weather, and cultural events of ethnic minority

communities, making it an undiscovered "Heaven on Earth."

Pictures 1.2 Muong Hoa Valley Love Waterfall

The Love Waterfall Sapa tourist

destination is the starting point for

travelers who are passionate about

climbing the highest Mount Fansipan in

Vietnam It is situated in San Sa Ho

commune, Sa Pa district, Lao Cai

province, approximately 14 km from

Sa Pa town driving southwest, and 3.2

km from O Quy Ho pass

a \ ae

Pictures 1.3 Love Waterfall

1.1.2 Human-made attractions

Hoang Lien National Park

Hoang Lien National Park, established in 2002, is a significant national park in

Vietnam, located between 3,000 and 4,000 meters above sea level Covering 29000

hectares, it comprises the Hoang Lien Son Mountain range and Fansipan Mount,

making it one of Vietnam's largest biodiversity hotspots

The Stone Church

Sapa Stone Church, built in 1935, is the only French architecture in the foggy land

Despite weather, history, and war, it features ancient Roman Gothic knowledge and

carved stone materials The church's elegant and serene front yard serves as a

gathering place

Ta Van Village

Ta Van, a town in Muong Hoa valley, is home to 1000 ethnic minorities, including

HMong, Dao, and Giay The village features traditional stilt houses and simple

wooden houses, with some families running tourism or homestays The unique

cultural characteristics and peaceful atmosphere attract tourists

1.2 Public and Private Amenities

1.2.1 Public amenities

1.2.1.1 Transportation

Buses are the most popular transportation for tourists in Sapa due to their

convenience and affordable rates They operate from early morning until late night,

with stops at main sights Taxis are also available, but are slightly more expensive,

costing between 30-40 thousand dong per person

1.2.1.2 Market

One of the famous tourist destinations that cannot be missed when coming to

Lao Cai is the Sapa market Market days are extremely crowded and bustling, this is

considered a unique feature in a highland market

Sapa Love Market

Sapa Love Market, held every Saturday evening in front of town's church, is a unique

cultural experience in Vietnam, fostering playful interactions and friendships among

local residents, including the Dao ethnic group, and fostering cultural exchange

Céc Léu Market

Coc Leu market, near the Chinese border, is Lao Cai province's largest commercial

hub, offering a variety of Vietnamese and Chinese goods, requiring cautious

negotiation and setting desired prices

1.2.1.3 Square

Sa Pa Square is located in the center of Sa Pa town, facing the Stone Church

This square is always bustling and vibrant, serving as a place for tourists to explore

and learn about the trading life of the local people Additionally, it regularly hosts

traditional and colorful cultural activities of ethnic communities, such as Hmong flute

dances and other community arts performances

1.2.2 Private amenities

1.2.2.1, Accommodation

As one of the most enchanting destinations in Vietnam, Sapa offers a wide

range of lodging options, each with its unique charm and character Whether tourists

are seeking a cozy homestay in an ethnic village or a luxurious mountain retreat, Sapa

has something to offer every type of traveler These are some of the most famous one:

accommodation

Hotel Paos Sapa Leisure| Sapa Leisure Hotel, a five-star

rooms with stunning views of Muong Hoa Valley, a rooftop bar, dining venue, lounge, indoor pool, spa, and gym for guests' enjoyment

Resort Lady Hill Resort Lady Hill Sapa Resort in Sa Pa, Lao

Cai, Vietnam, offers a romantic vacation combining traditional elements with contemporary elements

It features 154 rooms, 20 bungalows, a four-season outdoor infinity pool, HillSide restaurant, Sky Bar, and a modern conference room

Ecolodge Topas Ecolodge Topas Ecolodge, located in Ban Lach

Village, offers 33 charming bungalows atop picturesque hills in Sapa, featuring a chalet-style design, private balconies, in-house restaurant, lounge, spa, and shuttle bus service

Homestay Ta Van Village Tavan View Homestay, one of the few

affordable resorts in Sapa, is a popular choice for tourists seeking warmth and comfort Located near the romantic Muong Hoa valley, it offers easy access to famous attractions

Daegu Homestay Big Rock Homestay in Ta Van Mong

village, Sapa district, offers three room types with stunning views of Muong Hoa valley and_ terraced _ fields, allowing guests to fully immerse themselves in the surrounding scenery

1.2.2.2 Cafe/Restaurant

La Dao Spa & Coffee House

La Dao Spa & Coffee House is not really a coffee shop, it has a 3-in-1 style: Café,

Bungalow Homestay and Spa This Ta Van Homestay has 4 bungalows and a spa,

possessing a beautiful view with a large, quiet, and natural space

Hoa Moc Lan Restaurant

Hoa Moc Lan restaurant is a spacious, airy space with beautiful miniatures, clean

tables, and polite seating Located in a crowded tourist area, it offers a rich menu with

many dishes, including salmon hot pot, sturgeon, Sapa mushrooms, horse brain,

armpit pig, stream fish, and Sapa forest vegetables Order in advance for best service

Do Quyen Restaurant

Do Quyen Restaurant, a popular tourist destination, offers a unique experience with

stunning views of clouds and mountains The restaurant is beautifully decorated in a

classic European style, and its amiable service personnel are helpful Visitors can

enjoy delectable Sapa specialties paired with Northwest wines

1.3 Accessibility

By train

Traveling to Sapa by train is a popular option The nearest train station is in Lao Cai,

which is about 38 kilometers from Sapa Visitors can take an overnight train from

Hanoi, offering sleeper berths with beautiful views of the countryside along the way

The train journey typically takes around 8—9 hours Upon arriving in Lao Cai, you can

continue your journey to Sapa by bus or taxi

By bus

Buses are a common and convenient means of reaching Sapa The journey by bus

typically takes around 5-6 hours The roads to Sapa can be winding and mountainous,

but the scenic views make the trip memorable

By private transfers

For those seeking comfort and convenience, private transfers offer a more

personalized and efficient way to reach Sapa Travelers can hire a private car or van

with a driver This option allows for flexibility in terms of timing and stops along the

way Private transfers are often chosen by those who prefer a hassle-free journey

1.4 Human Resources

The tourism industry's human resources workforce is expected to reach 9,596

by 2019, with a rise in bachelor's and postgraduate qualifications, while college,

intermediate, and vocational qualifications decrease

1.4.1 Influencing customer experience quality

Hospitality and service: The local Sapa workforce is known for their genuine

warmth and hospitality, which significantly enhances the customer experience,

making tourists feel comfortable and valued

Language: Sapa residents, particularly those in the tourism sector, possess

proficient language skills, enhancing their interaction with international visitors and

enhancing their overall experience

Knowledge of local culture: Staffs knowledge of local culture and traditions,

particularly about ethnic minority groups and their customs, significantly enhances

customer experience and appreciation of Sapa

1.4.2 Skills

Trekking and Guiding skills: Local guides in Sapa possess strong hiking and

navigation skills, ensuring visitor safety and enriching the trekking experience through

their expert guidance

Culinary skills Chefs and cooks in Sapa offer diverse culinary experiences,

creating delicious and authentic meals that enhance tourists’ overall stay

Craftsmanship: Traditional handicrafts, such as textile weaving, are skillfully

crafted by local artisans, enhancing the value of products purchased by tourists

1.4.3 Awareness of tourism values

Environmental awareness: Many in Sapa's workforce are increasingly aware of the importance of sustainable tourism This awareness has led to eco-friendly practices

and efforts to protect the natural environment

Preservation of culture: Sapa's human resources, especially ethnic minority

communities, are committed to preserving their cultural heritage through active

participation in cultural exchanges and sharing traditions with tourists

Responsible tourism practices Responsible tourism practices are gaining

traction, with tour operators and guides incorporating eco-friendly practices to

minimize environmental impact in their services

1.5 Image and Character

Majestic landscape

Sapa is renowned for its stunning mountainous terrain, lush rice terraces, and deep

valleys The image of tiered rice fields, especially during the growing season, is an

iconic and captivating sight that defines Sapa's character The Hoang Lien Son

mountain range, including Fansipan, the "Roof of Indochina," adds to the grandeur of the landscape

"4 Seasons in a Day" weather

Sapa's unique character is its ever-changing weather, often experiencing four distinct

seasons in a single day This meteorological diversity allows visitors to witness a wide

range of climates, making each visit an adventure in itself

Cultural richness

Sapa is home to various ethnic minority groups, with the Hmong, Red Dao, and Tay

being some of the most prominent The character of Sapa is greatly influenced by

these diverse cultures, their traditional clothing, vibrant markets, and the warm

hospitality of the local people

Trekking and adventure

Sapa's character is synonymous with adventure and outdoor exploration The region

offers excellent trekking opportunities, and the challenging Fansipan trek is a popular

choice for adventurers seeking to conquer the highest peak in Southeast Asia

Community Tourism

Sapa's character is increasingly defined by community-based tourism initiatives that

offer visitors the chance to stay with local families, learn about their way of life, and

contribute to sustainable tourism

1.6, Price

Sa Pa offers a variety of accommodation options, including four- and five-star

resorts with moder amenities, and 3-star hotels with prices ranging from 800 to 1.5

million VND/night Most eateries offer reasonable prices, with prices ranging from

30,000 to 50,000 VND for well-known foods and drinks Transportation costs vary

between traveling to Sa Pa and within the tourist area, with bus tickets costing

between 350,000 and 500,000 VND Motorcycles, taxis, tourist cars, taxis, and

electric cars are popular modes of transportation Additional services include visiting

Ham Réng Mountain and Cat Cat Village