My Solo Trip to Hanoi, Vietnam - Daphne Xplores
- 0:00 Arrival
- 1:36 Hoan Kiem Lake
- 2:30 Cafe Dinh (Egg coffee)
- 3:03 Old Quarter, Dong Xuan market
- 3:44 Street food tour
- 6:18 Temple of Literature
- 7:38 Imperial Citadel of Thang Long
- 8:12 Cong Caphe, Banh mi 25, and che
- 9:29 Hoa Lo Prison, Vietnamese Women's museum
- 10:27 Hidden Gem Cafe
- 10:57 Old Quarter streets at night, bia hoi
- 11:44 Ha Long Bay cruise day 1
- 16:54 Ha Long Bay cruise day 2
- 18:45 Pho 10, last evening in Hanoi
- 19:26 Grab motorbike and snail noodle soup
!summarize
Part 1/10:
A Weekend Escape to Hanoi: My Unforgettable Vietnam Adventure
Hanoi, the vibrant capital of Vietnam, welcomed me with open arms—or rather, with sweltering heat, humidity, and an exhilarating chaos typical of bustling Asian cities. Touching down at 9:30 PM and stepping out into the throngs of drivers waiting for passengers, I felt a surge of excitement mixed with a hint of apprehension. After a brief search, I found my driver and was whisked away to my hotel situated in the heart of the Old Quarter.
A refreshing shower was my first order of business, after which I sank into bed, ready for the adventures that awaited.
Delightful Breakfasts in the Old Quarter
Part 2/10:
The morning sun coaxed me awake, and I was in for a treat as breakfast was included at my hotel. It quickly became evident that this was not just any breakfast; it was a feast, offering an impressive variety. My go-to dish was a steaming bowl of pho, an iconic Vietnamese noodle soup, which I relished almost daily.
With a full belly, I set out to explore the Old Quarter. One of the most immediate challenges I faced was learning how to navigate the chaotic streets—crossing them was no simple task as motorbikes zipped by without a pause. Observing the locals, I learned the trick: move steadily and without sudden movements. It was a fascinating experience witnessing the ballet of traffic unfold around me.
Discovering Hoan Kiem Lake
Part 3/10:
Adjacent to the Old Quarter lies Hoan Kiem Lake, a serene oasis amidst the hustle and bustle. Walking around the lake, which is adorned with lush trees providing shade, I encountered locals enjoying the outdoors—dancing, taking photographs, or simply soaking in the moment.
Post-lake stroll, I ventured to Cafe Dinh for my first taste of egg coffee, a unique drink that originated in Hanoi during a milk shortage in the 1940s. The cafe, run by a descendant of the original inventor, served a creamy concoction where whipped egg yolk met coffee. Surprisingly sweet and frothy, it was a delightful start to my culinary adventures.
The Historic Charm of the Old Quarter
Part 4/10:
The Old Quarter is steeped in history, known as the residential and commercial hub of Hanoi. Each street retains its historic focus, originally home to various trades—an echo of the past still visible today. My exploration eventually led me to Dong Xuan Market, a wholesale market first established by the French in 1889, where I immersed myself further in local culture and commerce.
After a brief afternoon nap to recharge, I indulged in a street food tour that proved to be the highlight of my trip. Starting with Vietnamese rice wine, we spent hours sampling almost ten different dishes, including the unforgettable coconut sticky rice ice cream that still dances in my dreams.
Weekend Vibrance and Evening Revelry
Part 5/10:
Visiting Hanoi on a weekend was a treat. From Friday to Sunday evenings, the streets of the Old Quarter transformed into pedestrian zones filled with street performers, creating an electric atmosphere rich in culture and energy. It was an experience not to miss.
As the rains softly drizzled on Sunday morning, I took a Grab—a Vietnamese version of Uber—to my first destination: the Temple of Literature, dedicated to Confucius and Vietnam's earliest university, established in 1076. The peaceful environment and historical significance left a lasting impression.
Part 6/10:
My next stop was the Imperial Citadel of Thang Long, which held historical importance as the seat of power for centuries. Despite its rich history, I found the site somewhat underwhelming, noting that many original structures were missing. The most captivating part was the wartime headquarters of the People's Army of Vietnam.
Embracing Local Flavors
After a nostalgic visit to Cong Cafe, famous for its coconut coffee, I took a culinary detour to Banh Mi 25, where I savored a delicious Vietnamese sandwich. Not one to skip dessert, I ventured for a refreshing bowl of che, a traditional Vietnamese dessert that delighted my palate.
Part 7/10:
My Sunday continued with visits to some poignant museums. I explored Hoa Lo Prison, famously known as the Hanoi Hilton, which held political prisoners before being repurposed to house American POWs. This museum experience was both informing and moving. Next, I visited the Vietnamese Women's Museum, highlighting the strength and contributions of women across various ethnic groups in Vietnam, which left me feeling inspired and in awe.
Final Days and Ha Long Bay
Part 8/10:
With sufficient sustenance fueling my body, I enjoyed a late lunch at Hidden Gem Cafe, a tranquil oasis amid Hanoi's bustling street life. I spent my final evening strolling along the pedestrian streets, soaking in the atmosphere of Bia Hoi corner, where the local draught beer, Bia Hoi, is famously inexpensive and refreshingly light.
Monday brought a new adventure as I set off for an overnight cruise in Ha Long Bay with Indochina Junk. Upon arriving at the docks, we embarked on the majestic Dragon Legend boat, where the luxury fishing vessel promised a voyage filled with culinary delights and breathtaking sights.
The cruise journey began with a sumptuous lunch as we sailed into Bai Tu Long Bay, enjoying excursions to spots like Thien Canh Son Cave and kayaking in serene waters.
Part 9/10:
On the second morning, we rowed to the Vung Vieng floating village, learning about the community’s adaptations to tourism and environmental conservation practices. It was a glimpse into daily life against the stunning backdrop of limestone karsts.
On our return to Hanoi, we paused at Yen Duc Village for a traditional water puppet show, an art form rich in cultural significance and storytelling.
A Bittersweet Farewell
As my time in Hanoi drew to a close, I relished one last bowl of beef pho at Pho 10 before seeking out that heavenly coconut sticky rice ice cream one last time. I capped off my night with a stunning view of the city from my hotel rooftop bar, reflecting on the whirlwind of experiences I had enjoyed.
Part 10/10:
Before my departure, I took a final ride on a Grab motorbike, embracing the thrill of the city once more. My last meal, a delightful bowl of bun oc (snail noodle soup), was both affordable and delicious, a fitting end to an unforgettable journey.
Hanoi had captured my heart with its rich history, vibrant culture, delectable cuisine, and the warmth of its people. It was a city of contrasts—a fusion of the ancient and the modern, a mosaic of experiences that left me yearning to return.