Walking through Sapa, myself and Melissa are guided by a tribeswoman. Melissa had heard of a hostel called Mountain view. 15 minutes later we arrive in the dark. Unfortunately I can't check in till 2pm, so get to know some of the hostel party animals still up and drinking (will turn out to be good friends and the staff). I grab a well deserved shower(LT) and tuck into a great breakfast of coffee, potato and pancakes. Even a banana. Its the most I've eaten in 2 days. There's even a device called a toaster. I meet some Americans and Germans who are off trekking today.
I meet my roomies, a loud american girl, 2 swiss girls and an american guy. The loud american girl reccommends a restaurant tucked up a side street. We get the hotpot. Treated like kids, the chef not letting us touch the hotpot till we understand the timings of the veg and meat. The beef going in last. There are bones on the floor, but the hygiene doesnt detract from an incredible meal.
Happy hour is every night between 6 and 8. I take advantage and further get to know the people here.

One of the hostel managers (Sam) is down and we all go to Mamas. Myself, Ally, Justin, Nick, Sam, Le-an, Patrick, Steve and a few of the hostel staff who I will get to know later. Mamas is an unusual place. Just down the road and in the front room of Mamas house is a bar and restaurant that the locals go to. Food comes out including the tastiest fried chicken to date. Shoot the Man from KFC and replace with mama. There is fresh papaya, pork rice and a sticky rice broth similar to porridge but delicious. We drink rice wine made from opium, but its what the locals do to celebrate so when in rome and all that jazz.