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Homestay Experience in Yên Bái – Living with the Local Tày People

This trip was part of my journey to visit and check in with some of our local suppliers in Northern Vietnam those I’ve had the chance to collaborate with through Tiger Tours over the years. But this time, I came as a true traveler, ready to experience the place with my own feet and heart.

Like many other mountain regions of Northern Vietnam, Yên Bái welcomed me with golden terraced rice fields winding around the hills, narrow earthy paths leading into small villages, and an atmosphere of refreshing peace. Nestled between Lào Cai and Sơn La, Yên Bái is known for beautiful destinations such as Mù Cang Chải, Nghĩa Lộ, and Thác Mơ (Dream Waterfall).

This time, however, I decided to skip the well-known tourist spots and head to Lục Yên – Lâm Thượng, a lesser-known, untouched area where travelers can discover pristine nature and learn about the lives of ethnic minority groups such as the Tày, Mông, Thái, and Dao.

Living with the Local Tày People

I spent the night at a Tày family’s homestay, sharing meals and stories with my hosts. During my four days in Yên Bái, each day brought new and genuine experiences that made me feel more connected to the land and its people.

On the first day, I joined Ngọt, a local Tày guide, for a hike through the forest. As we walked, she introduced me to various forest plants — those used by locals for food, traditional medicine, and even for building their homes.

At noon, we stopped by a small waterfall hidden deep in the forest, started a small fire to grill meat, and enjoyed sticky rice balls that Ngọt had prepared early in the morning. After a refreshing dip in the cool, clear water and a quiet moment surrounded by nature, we returned to the homestay as the sun set behind the mountains.

The next morning, we rode bicycles to a nearby local market, where villagers gathered to trade agricultural products and handmade crafts. I have a small habit of buying a unique souvenir from every place I visit and this time, it was a hand-carved wooden-handled jungle knife, simple yet beautifully detailed.

Later that day, I experienced bamboo rafting along the river, admiring Tày stilt houses scattered across green rice fields. In the afternoon, I visited Ngọt’s home, where she and her husband run a traditional carpentry workshop. I tried my hand at crafting a few small wooden items — feeling the precision, patience, and artistry that define the people of the highlands.

On the third day, I took time to slow down and simply enjoy the peaceful rhythm of village life. That evening, our group gathered around a bonfire, grilling corn, sharing laughter, and exchanging stories about life in the mountains.
As I walked around the village under the soft night light, I was greeted by warm smiles and gentle eyes — an authentic kindness that stayed with me long after I left.

Lessons from Every Journey

Whenever I travel, I always choose to stay in homestays. I believe that meeting and talking with locals is the most valuable part of any journey. It’s how I learn about their culture, their simple yet rich way of life, and the meaningful values they carry within their communities.

My trip to Yên Bái left me with so many heartfelt memories — the quiet sounds of the forest, the smell of wood smoke from kitchen fires, the gentle flow of the streams, and the stories shared over home-cooked meals.
I met inspiring people and brought home moments that will stay with me forever.

🔍 Travel Tips for Your Yên Bái Adventure

Best time to visit: From September to November, when the terraced rice fields turn golden and the weather is cool and pleasant.

Must-try activities: Forest hiking, swimming in waterfalls, bamboo rafting, visiting local markets, and learning traditional handicrafts.

Recommended destinations: Mù Cang Chải, Nghĩa Lộ, Lục Yên – Lâm Thượng, and Tú Lệ.

Highlight experiences: Staying in a Tày homestay, and enjoying local specialties such as five-colored sticky rice, grilled stream fish, and corn wine.

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