Return to Sapa.

After a restful sleep, we enjoyed breakfast on the veranda.

O. made a new friend.

And so did P.

We watched the family's ducks being released from their little shed
for their morning feeding. At about $15 a head, these birds
make up a substantial portion of the family's wealth.

Then we said goodbye to our hosts and headed back to Sapa.

Along the way we encountered more children and water buffalo.

And beautiful morning glories.

And found out where those goofy reindeer go.

The villages are very poor and primitive.

So it's no wonder that the rich tourists are instantly mobbed.

Back in Sapa, we checked into the Victoria Resort, a very lovely
four-star hotel. Quite a change from the rustic home-stay.

The views weren't nearly as good, nor was the food, but we
did have Internet access and great cocktails.

P.