We had almost a week to spend in Hanoi, before and after our trip to Halong Bay. This gave us plenty of time to get to know this city. Everyday we walked through Hanoi, exploring the many small streets, and around Hoan Kiem Lake. We were lucky to be here on a weekend when the area around the lake is pedestrianised. The whole city seemed to be out, either walking, sitting, chatting, having a coffee, or even riding swegways…
One evening we came across this lady de-skinning and quartering live frogs right on the pavement.
Here are the boys trying swegways for the first time. It was tricky to get your balance to start with but they soon got the hang of it. The roads around Hoan Kiem Lake were all closed to traffic on the weekends and the wide open roads were perfect for swegway riding.
On our last night in Hanoi we went to the Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre to watch the ancient art of water puppetry which has been round for over 1000 years. It is still however relatively unknown outside of northern Vietnam. There are many shows a day, lasting about 45 minutes, although it is wise to book a couple of days in advance as shows quickly sell out.
Hanoi is ‘the city of motorbikes’, they are everywhere. It is common to see motorbikes on the pavements and even disappearing into buildings where they park! Whole families, including sleeping babies are frequently seen on the back of one bike! Crossing the street is not for the faint hearted. The secret is to just go and not stop walking once you start across.
Below are a few photographs of the street sellers of Hanoi’s Old Quarter.
WHERE WE STAYED
We spent six nights at the Hanoi Old Centre Hotel. This place was great. It has a terrific location, right in the heart of the Old Quarter. We had a family room on the sixth floor, giving us one queen and three single beds with lots of space. The room came with a flat screen TV, refrigerator, and even a small balcony with perfect views out over Hoan Kiem Lake. Breakfast was provided every morning and was delicious, offering fresh fruit, pancakes, eggs, and baguette. You could even order shakes and fresh juices. The staff are very friendly and helpful.
WHERE WE ATE
We had great food whilst in Hanoi. Here are some of the best restaurants we ate in…
Aubergine Cafe – excellent local food in a small restaurant in the heart of the Old Quarter. You must try their grilled eggplant.
Joma Bakery Cafe – for when you need a sandwich, coffee and cake.
Buon Dua Le Cafe & Restaurant – located right opposite our hotel, the Hanoi Old Centre Hotel. A lovely balcony overlooking the street, perfect for people watching. Served both Western and Vietnamese dishes.
Cafe Pho Co – a rooftop cafe overlooking Hoan Kiem Lake. Getting to this place is an adventure in itself! The entrance is through a silk shop (on the south side of Hang Gai Road), along a corridor to a courtyard, and then up many stairs of various states of repair, until you reach the top. Their egg coffee is reputed to be the best.
The Gourmet Corner Restaurant – located on the 12th floor offering amazing views over Old Hanoi. Food and service are excellent. Great for higher end dining.
Red Bean Restaurant – another superb dining experience. Exceptional service, fabulous local cuisine and a reasonable wine list.
