We reached Lao Chai at about 4.30 am. It was raining cats and dogs, and we had to quickly run for shelter after getting off from the train. We met the tour guide, Shawn who spoke some English, although broken, we could understand him.
And we were transferred by tourist van to Sapa. Upon reaching the Sapa Boutique Hotel, we requested for early check in, as we needed to get a shower and change out of our filthy clothings.
The hotel was superb, facilities good, rooms immaculately clean, staffs friendly. Breakfast was bacon, eggs, fried rice, noodles and abundance of bananas. 
After breakfast, we were to do some trekking at the nearby villages. Armed with bamboo stick and umbrella, we walked some distance to see some mountain sides/paddy fields. But alas, due to the fog and rain, visibility was not good. We only managed to see some corn fields and muddy patches. What a letdown!
All along the way, as we trekked, the Hmong girls from the local minority group followed us closely and repeatedly asked, “ Will you buy something from me?” It is a wonder how they learn to speak some English even without going to school. They try very hard to persuade tourists to buy their handmade pouches, bags, souvenirs etc.
The girl on our right side is only 13 years old and the other woman should be in her 30s. She told us, her name is Lily! So, they followed us down the slopes and all the way up again.
We visited the home of a Hmong family.
We should remind ourselves what good lives we have, after seeing their living condition. So, kids, be contented!
In the afternoon, we did some shopping around the shops.
We had hotpot dinner, which was not much to talk about and retired early.
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