Hanoi’s Old Quarter
When I decided to head to Hanoi, Vietnam, starting up north this time, I didn’t know what was in store for me. I’ve been down south in Vietnam before, loved the food, and found the people super friendly, but this trip to Hanoi? It was something else.
Leaving Perth was a relief from the scorching 42°C heat, and landing in Hanoi felt like a breath of fresh air at a cool 15°C. My driver, chatting away as we drove from the airport, warned me about the recent rain and the cold snap coming our way. “Sure thing,” I thought, not knowing just how chilly it was about to get.
The first evening set the tone for what was to become an enchanting experience. The Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre, a beacon of Vietnam’s oldest art form, was mesmerizing. The evening unfolded with a traditional musical solo, setting the stage for a captivating 17-part water puppet show. Each segment, from the dragon dance to the Phoenix dance, was a vivid tapestry of Vietnamese folklore and culture, leaving me in awe of the country’s rich artistic heritage.
The next day, the weather did a 180 on us. A fine misty rain started and didn’t let up for three days straight. It got so cold, dropping to 10°C, and with the wind, it felt even colder. I was underdressed for this, but luckily, Hanoi’s got a ton of places selling North Face knockoffs. And after picking up a rain jacket and a warm sweater, and I was all set.
Exploring Hanoi’s Old Town was a highlight. The place is centred around this beautiful lake called Hoan Kiem Lake. Whenever we got lost, we just headed towards the lake to find our way back. The area comes alive on weekends with the streets closed to traffic, making it super easy to stroll around. The night market, Ngoc Son Temple, and other spots like St. Joseph’s Cathedral are all within walking distance.
But what made Hanoi special for me were the little lanes and alleyways where everyday life goes on. Seeing the local vendors selling Bahn Mi, the shoe repair guy, and the knife sharpener, all doing their thing alongside fresh fruit and meat stalls, gave me a real taste of the local vibe which painted a picture of Hanoi that was profoundly beautiful in its authenticity.
Each turn in the Old Town revealed hidden gems—a quaint coffee shop tucked away in an alley, offering the perfect respite with its strong, locally brewed coffee, or a tiny art gallery showcasing vibrant paintings by local artists, capturing the essence of Vietnamese life.
This part of Hanoi, with its seamless blend of historical sites, lively markets, and the tranquil lake, offered an immersive experience into the city’s soul. It was a place where every sense was engaged, and every moment held the promise of a new discovery. The Old Town, with its ancient charm and contemporary buzz, was a microcosm of Hanoi’s enduring spirit, inviting wanderers like us to delve deeper into its enchanting maze.
I’ve got so much more to share about my trips outside Hanoi, but that’s a story for another journal entry. For now, I bask in the afterglow of a city that, in its unique way, felt like a home away from home.
Stay tuned. Love, MyLifestyle.
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