We’re carrying on with our fascinating snoop around Bac Ha market in Sapa, North Vietnam.
Some of the sights make uncomfortable viewing for more western eyes including huge vats of horse stew – a delicacy here.
As a life long vegetarian I am fair happier, and in my element, in the colourful fresh produce section of this sprawling market.
It’s also the ideal place to watch / stalk more of the wonderfully attired local hill tribe ladies.
I think the rows of rainbow bright women above belong to the Flower H’mong tribe. Famed for their colourful clothing, a mix of traditional and modern man-made fabrics.
Another typical sight is the traditional conical hat – not just a sterotype but a very real, very commonly worn article in Vietnam.
The iconic headwear, known as non la, are handmade from bamboo and palm leaves and protect farmers from the scorching heat that can reach over 40c.
Sugar cane, rambutan and a whole host of delicious, colourful delicacies can be found heaped high in every corner.
But it’s not just edibles that you can buy – oh no – anything from brooms, saucepans and wellies to house bricks, cattle and even, sadly, cats and dogs for eating.
Or, if you’re one of the elder gentlemen, you can literally drink yourself into a stupor with this homebrew!
Just decant it from the large plastic jugs into your own container and weave your way home!
