14 August 2026

We went to Mu Cang Chai (MCC) early June 2026. Mu Cang Chai is a small rural district in North Western Vietnam. It is 300 km from Hanoi and closer to the tourist town of Sapa. It is famous for the rice terraces and well known to local Vietnamese tourists but not to foreign tourists. In fact during our 6 day visit we encountered less than a handful of foreign tourists. because we chose to visit in the Wet season. There were few Vietnamese tourists as well. This was quite a contrast to when we visited the rice terraces in Yunan China where it felt like we were in a middle of a music event! And that was the plan, just me, wife, driver and guide free to explore the beautiful land and meet the locals.

The Photostudies

Gallery One

Gallery Two

Visiting the rural parts of Vietnam reminded me of our visits to Myanmar. The people were very friendly and welcoming. We felt very safe and the food was fresh and clean. One of the guesthouses we stayed at was right opposite the Muong Hum Sunday market. This is where the minority people shop. It is so nice to visit the “real Vietnam” as opposed to a touristic commercial view. We were so priviledged to have this experience. From a photographers point of view they didn’t mind having thier photographs taken, contrary to Morocco…….

Visiting one of the villages, one of the families allowed us to look at there home. I think the father was preparing lunch for the family.