two of the most Vietnam unique resorts
Arriving in Sapa, the weather was cloudy and as we ascended the mountain we became more and more surrounded in cloud. We were concerned about the filming, but actually, it added rather a mysterious feel to the place. About 2 hours after getting off the train we arrived at Topas Ecolodge. Topas is one of the only resorts in Vietnam which can actually call itself an Eco-Resort. It is situated high on a spur, above Ban Ho Village and is part Danish owned. (Those Danes are always pretty savvy about things concerning the environment)
The bungalows all have spectacular views overlooking the valley. They are certainly not really luxurious (although perhaps that is because I have just come from the Nam Hai:-), but there is no doubt about it. It is quiet, peaceful and plenty of physical excersize to get some colour intoyour cheeks. Brighde's highlight was siting in front of a roaring fire with one of the 2 resort kittens! Bliss! So what makes an 'eco resort' an 'eco-resort'? Well. That really depends. You see what they have done and make your own mind up! During construction: Built with local stone so carbon neutral Most built by hand, including the breaking of the blocks by hand The wood is from certified trees. The restaurant, reception and managers house are actually 100 year old house, put on site. 99% of construction staff were employed locally. Now: Wash sheets by hand Use 100% natural soap Wastewater goes in to a septic tank 85% of staff are are from H'mong or Thai minorities Solar batteries charge hot water and lighting batteries Conscious decision to not have a swimming pool, aircon or TV Use a natural spring for water Provide opportunities for staff development and also English classes Buy as much as possible from the next door villages Staff wear local tribe costumes when appropriate. Have a traditional VN kitchen. Before heading back to Hanoi, we stopped of at lovely Ta Phin to get some GVs as they say in the business. The Red Dao women made for very colourful scenery and following that we headed to our friend Me Lay's house to take some more footage. Our treks to Sapa get good feedback and going back there reminded of of why it is so special. To us, Ta Phin is the ultimate in sustainable tourism for the locals.
The bungalows all have spectacular views overlooking the valley. They are certainly not really luxurious (although perhaps that is because I have just come from the Nam Hai:-), but there is no doubt about it. It is quiet, peaceful and plenty of physical excersize to get some colour intoyour cheeks. Brighde's highlight was siting in front of a roaring fire with one of the 2 resort kittens! Bliss! So what makes an 'eco resort' an 'eco-resort'? Well. That really depends. You see what they have done and make your own mind up! During construction: Built with local stone so carbon neutral Most built by hand, including the breaking of the blocks by hand The wood is from certified trees. The restaurant, reception and managers house are actually 100 year old house, put on site. 99% of construction staff were employed locally. Now: Wash sheets by hand Use 100% natural soap Wastewater goes in to a septic tank 85% of staff are are from H'mong or Thai minorities Solar batteries charge hot water and lighting batteries Conscious decision to not have a swimming pool, aircon or TV Use a natural spring for water Provide opportunities for staff development and also English classes Buy as much as possible from the next door villages Staff wear local tribe costumes when appropriate. Have a traditional VN kitchen. Before heading back to Hanoi, we stopped of at lovely Ta Phin to get some GVs as they say in the business. The Red Dao women made for very colourful scenery and following that we headed to our friend Me Lay's house to take some more footage. Our treks to Sapa get good feedback and going back there reminded of of why it is so special. To us, Ta Phin is the ultimate in sustainable tourism for the locals.
Source: amitravel.blogspot.com
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"Heaven on earth”
During my families two weeks holiday - the Topas Ecolodge was the highlight during our holiday. The managment was fantastic, the view from the bungalow was one of a kind and the staff were so friendly...
