Ha Noi
Hanoi is the capital city of Vietnam, located in the northern part of the country. It is a vibrant city that blends traditional culture and modern developments. Hanoi has a rich history and cultural heritage, and is home to many significant landmarks and attractions, such as the Old Quarter, Hoan Kiem Lake, and the Temple of Literature. The city is known for its street food scene, which offers a wide variety of delicious and affordable dishes. Hanoi is also a hub for business and commerce, with many international companies having offices and operations in the city. Overall, Hanoi is a fascinating destination that offers visitors a unique blend of history, culture, and modernity.
One thing I didn't like about the North was being charged more for things than everyone else. I hear Westerners talk about its ok because we have more money. I don't agree with that. If you are going to charge me more because I am a Westerner or because you feel I have money, I am not cool with that. I also heard that the North charges Vietnamese people from the South as well. I also like the fact that Saigon is much more westernized and comfortable with me. With that said, Ha Noi is still a cool city that I have viited several times.
The Old Quarter
The Old Quarter is a historic district in the heart of Hanoi, that is known for its narrow streets, colonial architecture, and traditional markets. It dates back to the 11th century and was once the bustling commercial center of Hanoi. Today, it still retains much of its old charm and is a popular destination for tourists looking to experience the city's rich culture and history. The area is home to numerous shops, cafes, restaurants, and street vendors selling a variety of goods, including clothing, jewelry, and souvenirs. Visitors can also explore the many ancient temples and pagodas scattered throughout the neighborhood. The Old Quarter is a must-see destination for anyone visiting Hanoi, and offers a unique glimpse into the city's rich heritage and vibrant culture.
Hoan Kiem Lake ❤️🏠
Hoan Kiem Lake, also known as the Lake of the Restored Sword, is a picturesque lake located in the heart of Hanoi. Legend has it that in the 15th century, Emperor Le Loi was gifted a magical sword by a turtle in the lake, which he used to defeat the Chinese Ming Dynasty. After the victory, the Emperor returned the sword to the turtle and the lake was renamed in honor of this legend. Today, Hoan Kiem Lake is a popular tourist attraction and a favorite spot for locals to exercise and relax. Visitors can walk along the scenic lakeside path, take a stroll across the iconic red bridge to the Ngoc Son Temple, or simply sit and enjoy the serene atmosphere. The lake is surrounded by historic landmarks and cultural attractions, making it a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Hanoi.
Ngoc Son Temple ❤️🏠
Ngoc Son Temple is a historic temple located on a small island in the middle of Hoan Kiem Lake. The temple dates back to the 19th century and is dedicated to a revered military leader, Tran Hung Dao, who led the Vietnamese army to victory over the Yuan Dynasty in the 13th century. Visitors can reach the temple via the iconic red-painted wooden bridge that connects the island to the lakeshore. The temple features traditional Vietnamese architecture, intricate wood carvings, and beautiful decorative details. Inside, visitors can see a variety of historic artifacts and cultural relics, including a preserved specimen of a giant soft-shelled turtle, similar to the one that according to legend, gave Emperor Le Loi the magical sword that helped him defeat the Chinese Ming Dynasty. Ngoc Son Temple is a significant cultural and historic landmark in Hanoi, and a must-see destination for anyone visiting the city.
St. Joseph’s Cathedral ❤️🏠📸
St. Joseph's Cathedral is a historic Catholic church located in the heart of Hanoi, Vietnam. It was built in the late 19th century and is one of the oldest and most beautiful churches in the city. The church features Gothic architecture with stained glass windows, high ceilings, and intricate stone carvings. It was built by the French colonial government to serve the city's growing Catholic population, and it remains an important religious center to this day. The interior of the church is adorned with religious art and statues, and there are regular services held in both Vietnamese and French. St. Joseph's Cathedral is a popular tourist attraction and a must-visit destination for anyone interested in the city's rich history and architecture.
The French Quarter
The French Quarter is a historic district that was built during the French colonial era in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. It is characterized by wide, tree-lined boulevards, elegant colonial architecture, and numerous cultural and historic landmarks. Many of the city's most important governmental and administrative buildings are located in the French Quarter, including the Presidential Palace, the National Assembly, and the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum. The area is also home to several museums, theaters, and art galleries, as well as numerous cafes, restaurants, and boutiques. Visitors can take a leisurely stroll through the picturesque streets, admire the ornate facades of the colonial buildings, and learn about the fascinating history of French influence in Vietnam. The French Quarter is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in architecture, history, and culture.
Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum
The Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum is a large memorial building located in Ba Dinh Square, which houses the embalmed body of the late Vietnamese leader, Ho Chi Minh. The building was constructed in the style of a traditional Vietnamese communal house, and features a large granite structure with a green roof, surrounded by manicured gardens. The body of Ho Chi Minh lies in state within the mausoleum, and visitors can pay their respects by walking past the glass sarcophagus containing his remains. The mausoleum is a popular destination for both domestic and international tourists, and visitors are required to follow a strict dress code and code of conduct when visiting the site. The Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum is a significant landmark in Hanoi, and a testament to the important role that Ho Chi Minh played in Vietnamese history and politics.
Temple Of Literature
The Temple of Literature, is a historic complex that was originally built in 1070 as Vietnam's first national university. The temple was dedicated to the Chinese philosopher Confucius, and served as a center of learning and education for Vietnam's ruling elite. The complex consists of several courtyards, temples, and pavilions, each of which is adorned with intricate carvings, inscriptions, and statues of Confucius and other important figures from Vietnamese history. Today, the Temple of Literature remains an important cultural and historical site in Hanoi, and is a popular destination for both domestic and international tourists. The complex is also home to a museum dedicated to the history of Vietnamese education, and hosts regular cultural events and festivals throughout the year.
Lotus Water Puppet Theater ❤️🏠⭐
Lotus Water Puppet Theater is a popular water puppet theater located near Hoan Kiem Lake in Hanoi, Vietnam. The theater features traditional Vietnamese water puppet performances, which are a unique art form that dates back to the 11th century. The performances are accompanied by live music and narration, and depict scenes from Vietnamese folklore, legends, and daily life. The puppeteers, who stand waist-deep in water, manipulate the puppets with long bamboo rods, making them move gracefully across the water. The theater offers an immersive and entertaining cultural experience for visitors to Hanoi, and is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in traditional Vietnamese art and culture.
Lake Tay Ho
Lake Tay Ho, also known as West Lake, is a large freshwater lake located in the northwest of Hanoi. The lake is surrounded by lush greenery, gardens, and parks, and is a popular destination for both locals and tourists seeking a tranquil escape from the city's busy streets. The lake covers an area of approximately 500 hectares and has a circumference of about 17 kilometers. Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities on and around the lake, including cycling, jogging, fishing, and boating. There are also several restaurants, cafes, and bars located along the lakefront, offering spectacular views of the water and the surrounding area. Lake Tay Ho is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to relax and unwind in Hanoi's beautiful natural surroundings.