To visitors in Vietnam, it’s quite entertaining to take a small walk through the city of Hanoi. The city which is now full of life with vehicles tooting and retail booths selling all sort of items has a history of about a 1000 year. Delving into the city you will find;
Streets of trade
Coming down as a practice from ancient times, the town is divided into streets where each will consist of little stalls or boutiques selling a specific type of item. The streets are named after the craft that is sold there. For example, many names start with ‘hangs’ which translates to wares. In recent times, Hang Buom Street is increasingly popular because of its Vietnamese cakes and sweets.
Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre
This is an ancient art that came into being in the 11th century when paddy fields were flooded. The people would entertain themselves with puppets. This unique puppet performance is accompanied by a Vietnamese orchestra consisting of drums, bamboo flutes, wooden bells, and horns. Tickets move quite fast for this 1-hour performance, so remember to get yours soon!
Hoan Kiem Lake & Ngoc Son Temple
Taking a walk by the lake is a must when exploring Hanoi! Locals can be seen jogging, practising Thai Chi, practising line dancing or simply enjoying a warm cup of coffee. Across the lake is a bridge that connects the small island on which Ngoc Son Temple lies. The temple was built to honour an ancient legend called ‘the returned sword’ and the war hero General Tran Hung Dao.
St. Joseph’s Cathedral
The cathedral was constructed by the French. The architecture has a neo-gothic style to it with twin bell towers on either side. It is the oldest cathedral in Hanoi, inside is a baroque altar, delicate stained glass and vivid paintings. Hanoi is a highlight when it comes to tourists accommodated nearby in Somerset Hoa Binh Hanoi and other such serviced apartment in Hanoi.
Catalina Forbes is a travel writer who bases her content on many thrilling escapades experienced across the world. Google+
