SaPa Day 3

It was a rainy day yesterday but that didn't stop the show. We went shopping  in the trekking shop street in the morning and Bob and I bought good over run sneakers for $30 per pair. Elise found some pretty clothes to take home for her girls. I am avoiding clothes for them because I can't keep an accurate estimate in my head of how much they have grown.  After lunch we  took a car out to a Hmong/ Zoa village. We were met by two local women as we walked across the bridge into the village and they then guided us on a walk around the paddy fields and through the village. We saw quite a few Homestay options some of which looked quite sophistocated . The scenery was beautiful despite a little rain. Our two senior guides (1x 68 years and 1x35) were soon joined by two school girls one of whom spoke very good English at age 12 years. Our walk went past the pre school for 3-4 year olds and also the school for those aged up to 16 years and our guide informed us 200 children attended. She lived an hours walk up into the mountainside so lived in town except for days off. Her parents are rice farmers and seemed to be well to do judging by her jewellery and because she said she has extra English coaching. As we walked we discretely talked about what we should pay them for their guiding. This became a superfluous discussion are we approached the bridge. We were gently herded into shelter, the baskets they were carrying were unpacked and the selling began. We each complied even Bob purchasing a couple of small bags which we will now use as passport holders.
It was important that we bought something from each of those who had escorted us so we did end up with more than we would usually have bought but at no great expense and face was saved.
We had dinner at the restaurant which has become our favourite because the food and service is just so good. The "Little Sa Pa" is patronised by locals and visitors and we went early to ensure a table. This was because of it's  popularity and it was as well that we did.  Friday night had the whole town hopping. The Hmong women had  their goods arranged on the pavements on plastic after the rain and were hoping for a busy night. Sadly for them the rain began again as we left the restaurant.