DISCOVER HANOI, VIETNAM
The Happiest people I've met while traveling are here!
Vietnam was one of those places I instantly connected with—and honestly, I wish I had stayed longer. I explored Hanoi and took an unforgettable weekend trip to Halong Bay, where I lived my best boat life sailing past limestone cliffs and sleeping under the stars. It’s every bit as dreamy as it looks.
Hanoi hits different. It’s fast, flavorful, and full of surprises—where crossing the street is an art form and food is practically a love language. One of the wildest things? Train Street—yes, a train literally barrels through a narrow alley lined with cafés and homes. You’ll sip coffee with just inches to spare as it roars by. Totally chaotic. Totally unforgettable.
While I didn’t make it to Hoi An or Sapa this round (still high on my list!), Hanoi gave me a full dose of culture, flavor, and street energy. From slurping pho on plastic stools to trying pho-inspired cocktails, this city pulses with life.
Stay tuned for more sub-pages on Halong Bay and beyond—but for now, here’s your Hanoi starter guide.
THINGS TO DO
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Wander the Old Quarter – Get lost (in a good way). This part of town is a sensory overload: scooters, smells, colors, and energy. You’ll find everything from coffee shops to street food vendors packed into narrow alleyways.
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Explore Hoan Kiem Lake – Locals gather here for tai chi at sunrise and evening strolls. It's peaceful, scenic, and right in the heart of the city.
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Temple of Literature – A serene escape with a deep cultural and historical backdrop.
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Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre – A must-see traditional show that brings Vietnamese folklore to life—yes, it’s in water!
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Train Street – The Insta-famous train track that cuts through narrow residential streets. Make sure to go with a guide or during designated hours—it’s tighter regulated now.
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Day trip to Ninh Binh – Often called “Halong Bay on land,” Ninh Binh is just 2 hours south of Hanoi. Think rice paddies, river caves, and lush karst scenery. Do a boat ride through Tam Coc or explore the ancient capital of Hoa Lu.
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Visit local markets – Dong Xuan Market is your spot for souvenirs, street food, and that classic market chaos.
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Relax at West Lake – Rent a bike, grab a coffee lakeside, or watch the sunset.
THINGS TO KNOW
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Cash is king – Many places are still cash only, so keep small bills on hand.
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Crossing the street is a sport – Just walk slowly and confidently. The scooters will dodge you.
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Language barrier? – Use Google Translate and save screenshots of your destination names. Most locals are friendly and helpful, even if there’s a language gap.
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Weather – Hanoi can be humid and hot, so dress light but respectful. A rain jacket or umbrella is always smart to carry.
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Sim cards & transport – Grab a local SIM for cheap data and use Grab (like Uber) for taxis—it’s easy and affordable.
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Customs & etiquette – Be respectful in temples, dress modestly, and remove your shoes when entering homes or certain businesses.
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THE FOOD AND DRINKS
Let’s just say pho real—Hanoi knows how to eat. You can feast like a local for under $5, but keep in mind, standards are different. Think tiny stools, chaotic corners, and an open kitchen you can literally see from the street—but that’s the magic of it.
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Pho for breakfast, lunch, and dinner – You haven’t had pho until you’ve had it in Hanoi. Try Pho Thin or Pho Gia Truyen Bat Dan for that legit flavor.
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Bun Cha – Grilled pork, rice noodles, herbs, and dipping sauce. Obama ate it here. Enough said.
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Egg Coffee (Ca Phe Trung) – Sweet, rich, and totally different. Try Cafe Giang, where the original recipe was born. Coffee lovers, this is a strong one so sip slowly.
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Street food stalls – Grab banh mi, fresh spring rolls, and sugarcane juice from roadside vendors. Just follow the crowds—locals know best.
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Pho cocktails?! – Yes, it’s a thing. Try creative cocktails at The Haflington or Polite & Co.—trendy spots with speakeasy vibes.
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Night Markets – Weekend night markets in the Old Quarter are buzzing with energy. Come hungry.
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