A new trip from InsideVietnam Tours provides a rare chance to discover Vietnam's remote communities in the lesser-visited northern region of the country.

Focusing on the more rural areas, the 12-night 'Northern Star' trip explores the varied ethnic communities of the northern highlands through immersive elements such as home stays.

Home stay

The chance to spend a night with the Tay minority people in the village of Pac Ngoi on the shore of Ba Be Lake in the Bac Kan province.

Staying with a family in a traditional stilt house, there is the chance to enjoy a home-cooked meal and learn, first-hand, about life in the village and this fascinating culture that is exemplified by colourful dress and compelling traditions.

Local market

Having explored the villages of the San Chay and Nung ethnic groups, there is the opportunity to visit a local market in the town of Meo Vac in Ha Giang province.Close to the Chinese border and surrounded by dramatic peaks, Hmong, Zao and Lo Lo people come from their villages on the surrounding mountains to sell their wares, to stock up on supplies, and to socialise.

Women's co-operative

The chance to visit a female co-operative on the route to Hoang Su Phi that provides opportunities for over a hundred of the region's poorest Hmong and Zao women.

Established by a local female entrepreneur, this arts and crafts movement provides women with the choice of working from home or from the workshop while they look after their children. Producing traditional handicrafts through weaving and embroidery, they are, in turn, taking control of their livelihoods.

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The facts

• When to go
• Before you go
• How to get there
• What to speak
• What to spend (and tip)
• What to know

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