Lao Cai would be considered a fine destination in its own right if Sapa had not stolen its thunder. Goods and services are in ample supply, eating and lodging is of decent quality, it's a transport hub, and it's crossed by leafy, sleepy sidestreets that are good for a wander.
Lao Cai is a border town, but without that typical remote 'outpost' feeling you get with such spots. It's just a short walk away from its sister city Hekou on the Chinese side -- you'll pass through here if you are headed to or from the Chinese city of Kunming, 470km to the north
(http://www.travelfish.org/location/vietnam/northwest_vietnam/lao_cai/lao_cai)