#150 | HELLO HANOI!

Hanoi, the capital city of Vietnam, was the first stop on our family trip back in 2016. We were here for 3 days and stayed at the lively Old Quarter district near Hoan Kiem Lake. The streets were bustling with people, scooters and bicycles, and the area was filled with many local shops selling all kinds of goods. Taking a walk around may not be the most relaxing stroll you would of had, with all that traffic and noise, but it is an experience not to be missed. Our first day in Hanoi was a bit of an easy one, having just landed in the country. After dropping off our bags at the hotel, we took a stroll, passing by St Joseph's Cathedral, Emperor Ly Thai To's statue and through the energetic streets to Dong Xuan Market. We came back to our hotel in the afternoon for a break before ending our first night with Cha Ca at Cha Ca Thang Long, which is pan-fried fish with turmeric and dill.

We were up early the next day for our day tour of Ha Long Bay, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, known for its emerald waters and spectacular islands. We travelled there from the city by coach, and when we arrived, cruised the bay by boat. It was a whole day excursion that the entire family enjoyed. We also met a very nice couple from Singapore in our tour group, who gave us some local tips on where and what to eat in Singapore as we were heading there right after Vietnam. Lucky us!

HANOI, VIETNAM

On our third and final day in Hanoi, we explored more of the city. Our day started at Ngoc Son Temple at Hoan Kiem Lake, and then we made our way to the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, One Pillar Pagoda and then to the Temple of Literature. Lunch was a delicious bowl of beef noodle soup at Pho 10, and afterwards, we enjoyed the famous egg coffee at Giang Cafe, which is a serious must-try in Hanoi. After a little bit of market shopping and a quick break back at the hotel, we headed out again to see the Thang Long Water Puppet Show, and to end the night, grabbed some supper at Nom Thit Bo Kho. We had a really great time in Hanoi and it was nice exploring with mum and dad. Three days here seems to be just the right amount of time to experience this fun city.