Where is Pu Luong?
Pu Luong is a village located 160km southwest of Hanoi. It is located in the Thanh Hóa Province. One of the best things about Pu Luong is that it is not extremely well known. There are similarities to Pu Luong and Sapa regarding rice terraces, but the local people are completely different.

How do I get to Pu Luong from Hanoi?
There are a few options from Hanoi to Pu Luong. The first is a public bus which will be similar to a van or minibus. It should take around 5 hours, so plan to leave early in the morning. Another option is renting a motorbike, but be prepared for winding roads and some crazy drivers along the way.  Finally there is a semi private bus that will be filled with other tourists or locals wanting to go to Pu Luong. You can find this bus in the Old Quarter and you should pay around 17usd per person, each way.
Where should I stay in Pu Luong?
Pu Luong is known for tourists participating in home stays. This may not be the most luxurious option, but it will be an amazing experience. You will stay in a simple house with a local family. They may not speak much English but the locals are known to be very kind here, and can also supply your meals. This should only cost $5-$10 USD per night with a few dollars extra for your meals. There are other options such as the Pu Luong Retreat, if a homestay does not interest you.
What time of year should I visit Pu Luong?
The best time of year for Pu Luong is known to be between February-April or September- November because these coincide with the rice harvesting. The weather in this time should be around 18-30 degrees celsius depending on when you visit. This is also considered the dry season, so trekking is much more pleasurable. Make sure to bring warmer clothes if you plan to visit in the winter months and prepare for a bit of rain and fog if visiting in the summer months.
What is there to do in Pu Luong?
There are many activities to do in Pu Luong. Just know that it is a quite, calm place to go for a thoughtful time and to relax.

1.    Rent a motorbike and drive around
One fun activity after first arriving is to rent a motorbike and drive around to look at the village in its entirety. The roads are windy and people drive quickly so it is important to be cautious. Make sure you wear a helmet as well, but this is really nice to check out your surroundings and enjoy the weather.
2.    Trek
Trekking is a very popular activity in this part of Vietnam. There are a few popular treks to go on, one is to hike to the popular waterfall called  Thác Hiêu. You can bike here, but park your bike before the small bridge as it can be dangerous. The actual hike takes 2 hours in total and the scenery is beautiful. You will pass by local houses, rice fields and finally all of the waterwheels. These waterwheels are generally what Pu Luong is known for. Once you arrive to the waterfall you can jump in and swim, so make sure to bring a swim suit if this interests you.
3.    Picnic
If you enjoy having a picnic, this is a lovely thing to do during any of your hikes in Pu Luong. Bring food, play some cards or a ball game, and just enjoy nature.
4.    Yoga
If you happen to be a yoga enthusiast this is a wonderful place to practice your yoga. Lay out on any grassy area and breath in the wonderful pure air.
5.    Rafting and other water sports
The Pu Luong Retreat is the only large hotel in the area, and they offer many different activities such as rafting.
6.    Visit a Thai village
Phu Luong has a small minority community of Thai people made up of the White Thai and Black Thai. These people are very skilled at wet rice cultivation and they live in stilt homes. Staying in one of these homes on a homestay can be very interesting and a different experience from the rest of the country.

7.    Join a craft workshop
There are local people who do craft workshops which can be very fun. There are different options to do weaving, embroidery, basket making and bamboo furniture making. Take a piece of culture home with you.
8.    Do nothing
One wonderful activity to participate in while in Pu Luong is the act of doing nothing. Listen to the sounds of the wilderness, talk with local people, and just enjoy the act of relaxation.
What is the food like in Pu Luong?
Since the locals are traditional hill tribe people, the food is influenced by Vietnamese food as well as Western food. The hill tribe food is traditionally local smoked pork, ginger spiced chicken or snails dipped in fish sauce. Vegetables are usually offered depending on what season, but spring rolls, tofu, tomatoes and some type of meat are always common in meals. French fries are also often served and sometimes with added garlic. Rice wine is a typical accompaniment to every meal as well.
If I decide to participate in a homestay, what should I expect?
The homestays will normally be at a traditional house of local families. They are usually made out of food and there are not many windows. The bedrooms for tourists are usually built additionally on to the house and offer a bed, mattress, pillow, mosquito net and a blanket. These are very basic rooms and the style of the homes have not been changed for around 100 years. Always make sure to take off shoes when entering a local house, you will be given plastic sandals to wear. Do be aware that the bathrooms are usually squat toilets. You may brush your teeth with the water but only drink local water that has been boiled.
What else should I know about visiting Pu Luong?
Be aware that the local people are very welcoming but often a bit shy. You can offer to help locals with things like cooking, working in the rice fields or ask for help on how to wear local attire. It can be wonderful to participate in local culture and learn. There are a few things to be aware of in terms of local customs. First is never to wear all white into the villages, and to never touch anyones head. Never take a photo of anyone without asking permission, and never take photos of infants even if you are told it is alright.
Pu Luong is a hidden gem of Vietnam. For now it is undiscovered by many tourists. As long as you obey the customs, have respect, and plan to spend a lot of time relaxing, you should have a wonderful time in Pu Luong.