7 Reasons To Fall In Love With Hanoi
From the view point of foreigners, Hanoi possesses patterns that are spectacular enough to make the capital city of Vietnam stand out from any other cities in Asia.
Crossing the Road
Crossing the bustling streets of Hanoi remains an exhilarating and intimidating experience for many foreign visitors. Once you step onto the roadway, turning back becomes even more hazardous. The best approach, as many locals advise, is to walk steadily and confidently through the traffic, relying on your courage and perhaps a bit of luck to navigate the vehicles. With time, crossing the street can transform into an exhilarating adventure, allowing you to feel like a local with your head held high and a sense of ease in your stride.
Learning to cross the street can be both intimidating and fun
Bia Hơi (Draft Beer)
Bia hơi remains a quintessential part of the Hanoi experience that any visitor should indulge in while exploring Vietnam. Numerous bia hơi vendors fill the sidewalks in the Hanoi Old Quarter, where you will often spot many locals and tourists savoring this refreshing beverage together. If you're eager to meet fellow travelers, head to the popular juncture of Ta Hien Street and Luong Ngoc Quyen Street. This lively spot is a favorite gathering place for both locals and foreigners alike.
Bia Hoi Junction in Ta Hien
Hanoi Old Quarter
The Hanoi Old Quarter is a must-visit area for anyone traveling to the capital. To experience the heart of Hanoi itself, a visit to this part of the city is essential. Streets here were historically named after the goods or services sold in them, but many have since diverged from their original purpose. For instance, Hàng Bạc Street, once known for its jewelry, now features various shops and even a café. This blend of history and modern commerce is part of what makes the Old Quarter so vibrant and inviting.
Ngo Huyen alley - Hanoi Old Quarter
War Relics
Hanoi is rich in historical significance, marked by numerous war relics that tell the story of the nation's tumultuous past. One notable site is Hoa Lo Prison, often referred to as the “Hanoi Hilton” during the Vietnam War, where American prisoners of war were held. This poignant site attracts many visitors, eager to learn about its extensive history and the events that transpired within its walls.
Hoa Lo Prison
Hàng Rong (Shoulder-Pole Retail)
The sight of vendors carrying balanced loads on shoulder poles is an iconic representation of life in Hanoi and Vietnam at large. These mobile shops offer a diverse range of products, including street food, fresh fruits, and unique souvenirs that provide a taste of local culture. Engaging with these vendors can be a delightful way to connect with the city's vibrant daily life.
Hanoi street vendor, a specialty of the capital
Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum
Hanoi is home to the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, the only national leader's mausoleum in Southeast Asia. This landmark continues to be one of the most popular destinations for foreign visitors, who come to pay their respects and learn about the legacy of Ho Chi Minh, the founder of modern Vietnam.
Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum
French Colonial Architecture
French colonial architecture adds a unique charm to Hanoi, setting it apart from other cities in Asia. This influence is evident not only in the city's buildings but also in the gastronomy, with dishes like Vietnamese coffee and banh mi (Vietnamese bread) becoming popular staples. The Hanoi Opera House is a prime example of how this historical influence has shaped the city's aesthetics, showcasing exquisite design that reflects its colonial past.
Hanoi Opera House, representative of French colonial architecture
Hanoi's Colonial Architecture
Although the French colonial period came to an end a long time ago, much of the French arts and deco style are still imprinted in the architecture of Hanoi.
Bridging The Difference: French and Vietnamese Fusion In Architecture Style
Colonial French architecture has appeared in Hanoi for roughly 200 years and become one of the most charming features of this city. At present, numerous buildings, villas or public constructions with French design in Hanoi are conserved in order to retain their original features and elements.
Feel Hanoi's Colonial Old Charm In Autumn
A hustle and bustle Hanoi now is suffering from rapid urbanization, yet looming in the city noise is an old Hanoi with its delicate architecture and marvelous flower smell.
