Hanoi

Hanoi is a city full of cultural and historical attractions. Some must-visit places include the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, the Temple of Literature, the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology, and the Hoa Lo Prison Museum. Additionally, you can take a stroll around Hoan Kiem Lake or visit the Ngoc Son Temple located on the lake's island.

One of the most popular activities in Hanoi is to take a street food tour. Hanoi's cuisine is unique and delicious, and a food tour will allow you to experience the local flavors. Other activities include visiting the traditional markets, exploring the Old Quarter and its narrow streets, watching a water puppet show, and taking a day trip to the nearby countryside.

For a luxurious stay, you can check out the Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi, a colonial-style hotel that has been around since 1901. For a more affordable option, you can try the Hanoi La Siesta Hotel Trendy or the Hanoi La Siesta Hotel & Spa. If you're looking for a unique experience, you can stay in one of Hanoi's many homestays, such as the Hanoi Family Homestay or the Hanoi Little Town Hotel & Travel.

The best time of year to visit Hanoi is during the months of September to November or from March to April. During this time, the weather is mild and pleasant, and you can avoid the hot and humid summer months and the cold winter months. However, keep in mind that these are peak tourist seasons, so expect crowds and higher prices.

Hanoi has a good transportation system, with buses and taxis available throughout the city. The easiest way to get around is by taxi or motorbike taxi, which are both affordable and convenient. However, be aware that traffic in Hanoi can be chaotic, so make sure to always wear a helmet and exercise caution when crossing the street.

In Hanoi, it is important to dress modestly and conservatively, especially when visiting temples and other religious sites. It is also customary to remove your shoes before entering someone's home or a temple. When eating, it is polite to wait for the oldest person at the table to begin eating before you begin. Finally, it is considered impolite to touch someone's head or point your feet at someone.

The currency used in Hanoi is the Vietnamese Dong (VND). It is recommended that you exchange your currency at a bank or an authorized exchange booth. Many shops and restaurants in Hanoi accept credit cards, but it is always a good idea to carry cash as well.

Hanoi is known for its delicious street food, and there are many local dishes to try. Some must-try dishes include pho, a noodle soup with beef or chicken, banh mi, a Vietnamese sandwich with various fillings, bun cha, grilled pork with noodles and herbs, and cha ca, a fish dish that is cooked with turmeric and dill.

There are many day trips that can be taken from Hanoi, including a visit to the Perfume Pagoda, a complex of Buddhist temples located in the Huong Tich mountains, a trip to the Bat Trang pottery village, where you can learn about traditional Vietnamese pottery, and a visit to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Ha Long Bay, known for its stunning limestone formations and scenic beauty.

Hanoi is generally a safe city for tourists, but it is important to exercise caution and be aware of your surroundings, especially when walking around at night or in crowded areas. Petty theft and pickpocketing can occur, so make sure to keep your belongings close to you at all times.