Hanoi

The capital of Vietnam and the final destination of our journey – a city that overwhelmed our senses, similarly to HCMC and yet totally different.
Hanoi serves as an excellent base for visiting nearby attractions such as Sa Pa, Ha Long Bay, the Ha Giang Loop, and Ninh Binh. However, the city itself offers a vibrant insight into Vietnamese culture with its museums, monuments, Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, and the old Hoa Lo Prison, also known as the “Hanoi Hilton.”

Having caught a cold during the Ha Giang Loop, we took a more relaxed approach to exploring Hanoi. We enjoyed the city’s charm, participated in pottery and jewelry-making classes, and visited a few attractions, including the iconic Train Street.

The Train Street

The famous Train Street of Hanoi is an attraction like no other. Unsurprisingly, it draws a large number of tourists, but it’s an experience not to be missed while in the city. Drinking an overpriced beer while waiting for the train to pass and placing a bottle cap on the rails to create a unique keepsake added a touch of fun to our visit. The narrow street, lined with cafes and homes just inches from the tracks, perfectly blends local life with tourist curiosity.

New Year’s Eve

If you’re looking for a quieter New Year’s Eve, Hanoi’s Old Quarter might not be the best choice – it was absolutely packed with tourists. The crowds made it nearly impossible to navigate, especially as our hotel was located just around the corner from the main attraction: the live stage.

However, an unforgettable bonus came on January 2nd when we joined the locals in celebrating Vietnam’s victory against Thailand in the Asian Championship. The streets were alive with energy, joy, and national pride, giving us a glimpse into the country’s vibrant spirit.