Vietnam: Through the charming Hanoi city, to the serene Ha Long Bay, and to the tranquil Ninh Binh

In November, 2019 I spent a weekend in Hanoi, Vietnam. It was worth every minute of the two days. There is so much to explore and enjoy. I will share here a snapshot of the details and some more posts to follow will capture the visuals from the travel.

Pier for Ha Long Bay Tour, Hanoi, Vietnam

Hanoi city is small yet offers some of the interesting visuals. During the day the city is as busy as it gets. There are street vendors all over the place and selling different kinds of food. Mind you be careful on the pedestrian walks as bikes will fly past you. The city can be covered well with a bike.

Things to do in the city:

Bikes parked on footpaths, Hanoi, Vietnam

1. Check out some of the local stores for some very beautiful ceramics and clay works. There is an infinite choice available.

2. There are several shops that sell variety of tea and small packages of different types of tea are available if you want to take back gifts

3. Poster shops are everywhere around the city and you will find wonderful collection of old and new style talking of politics, life in Vietnam and much more

4. There is an array of restaurants, heavily meat heavy food. You will find what you want.

My favorite: like the Vietnamese Pho noodles soup that I was able to find one I want with fish and beef.

5. The Vietnamese coffee is most interestingly flavored they use a of egg white to whip the coffee. Try it.

Coffee and tea shop, Hanoi, Vietnam

Recommended:

A day cruise to Ha Long Bay: A must for anyone in Hanoi is taking a cruise through the serene Ha Long Bay. The cruise tours stop at several locations such as a limestone cave, kayaking, and a beach where you can walk to a steep hill and catch a view of the bay. If you are fit, you can go right to the top. I stopped a little away and got this view which made my trip memorable. Refer to my post on Ha Long Bay for more details.

Ha Long Bay view from the top

A day trip to Ninh Binh or Tam Coc: Another must visit though it takes only a half day to go around the place. You have to arrange your own ride. It is a relaxing day trip if you want to just unwind in this small, beautiful town. Very local and traditional place with old temples and a boat ride through another small bay area. Extremely refreshing for the soul.

Small boat trip, Ninh Binh, Vietnam

The people of Vietnam are very polite and friendly. I believe the city of Ho Chi Minh is also worth the visit. I have not been yet. Go for it while you are there.