We were in and out of Hanoi a few times. After we initially arrived, we left after two days for Ha Long Bay. Then we returned to Hanoi for a week before leaving for Sapa. Then we returned to Hanoi again. This time we had no idea how long we were staying because we had no idea where we were going. 

Sapa is a beautiful town nestled in the hills and mountains of Northwest Vietnam near the border of China. It has become popular with tourists because of its guided scenic hikes through villages which allow you to savor the views of the iconic panoramic rice terraces. 

The bus to Ha Long Bay picked us up at our Hanoi hotel at 8:00 a.m. We took only what we needed, leaving the remaining luggage to be 'stored' (left out for all to see) at the hotel.