Tuesday, June 26, 2007
Thursday, June 07, 2007
HANOI
Hanoi, the capital of Vietnam, is a pleasant city. It is located in the northern region and serves as the center for politics, economic and culture for Vietnam. Currently populated by more than 2 million citizens, Hanoi is a captivating city, a must visit for all travelers.
CLIMATE
Hanoi enjoys two climatic seasons in a year – the hot season and the cold season. The hot season usually runs from February to May while the cold season is from November to January. Do expect plenty rainfall between the months of June to October.
GETTING AROUND
Public transportation in Hanoi is limited to only buses. Although the fare is relatively cheap, the buses are usually very crowded. Moving around on the public bus is not highly recommended as it can be difficult for those who do not speak Vietnamese.
Metered taxis are available for hire. Flag down one just off the streets or you can find them at major attractions and hotels. Always request that the drivers turn on the meter before boarding.
One of the more preferred modes of transportation around Hanoi is the motorbike taxi. They are cheap and easy to find and convenient to move around with. If you are a more adventurous traveler, you can also rent one for your own use. The rental charges are on hourly or daily basis.
For first time travelers, it is highly recommended that you try the cyclos. Cyclos are similar to trishaws found in Malaysia – it is a 2 seater cart which is being pulled by a man on a bike. You can flag down a cyclo anytime, anywhere, and always remember to bargain before you board.
Dining
Rice, or commonly known as Com to locals, is the staple food in Vietnam. Thus, it is no surprise to see that almost everything is served with rice. A typical Vietnamese meal is made up of rice, served with pork or fish dishes, vegetables and soup.
Noodles, or Pho to locals, are also a favourite among Vietnamese. Typically eaten for breakfast, it has a very distinct taste and fragrant smell. Pho is usually served in soup of beef or chicken.
Other not to be missed Vietnamese food includes Banh Chung (Sticky Rice Cake), Gio Lua (Lean Pork Pie), Cha Ca (Grilled Minced Fish) and Banh Tom (Crispy Shrimp Pastry).
If you do have time to spare, do indulge in a cup (or two) of Vietnamese coffee. They are rated among the world’s best for aroma and taste, but more importantly, Vietnamese coffee is inexpensive.
Attractions:
Hanoi, rich with cultural history and charm, boasts a wide selection of attractions not to be missed. Among the favourites are:
Hanoi, the capital of Vietnam, is a pleasant city. It is located in the northern region and serves as the center for politics, economic and culture for Vietnam. Currently populated by more than 2 million citizens, Hanoi is a captivating city, a must visit for all travelers.
CLIMATE
Hanoi enjoys two climatic seasons in a year – the hot season and the cold season. The hot season usually runs from February to May while the cold season is from November to January. Do expect plenty rainfall between the months of June to October.
GETTING AROUND
Public transportation in Hanoi is limited to only buses. Although the fare is relatively cheap, the buses are usually very crowded. Moving around on the public bus is not highly recommended as it can be difficult for those who do not speak Vietnamese.
Metered taxis are available for hire. Flag down one just off the streets or you can find them at major attractions and hotels. Always request that the drivers turn on the meter before boarding.
One of the more preferred modes of transportation around Hanoi is the motorbike taxi. They are cheap and easy to find and convenient to move around with. If you are a more adventurous traveler, you can also rent one for your own use. The rental charges are on hourly or daily basis.
For first time travelers, it is highly recommended that you try the cyclos. Cyclos are similar to trishaws found in Malaysia – it is a 2 seater cart which is being pulled by a man on a bike. You can flag down a cyclo anytime, anywhere, and always remember to bargain before you board.
Dining
Rice, or commonly known as Com to locals, is the staple food in Vietnam. Thus, it is no surprise to see that almost everything is served with rice. A typical Vietnamese meal is made up of rice, served with pork or fish dishes, vegetables and soup.
Noodles, or Pho to locals, are also a favourite among Vietnamese. Typically eaten for breakfast, it has a very distinct taste and fragrant smell. Pho is usually served in soup of beef or chicken.
Other not to be missed Vietnamese food includes Banh Chung (Sticky Rice Cake), Gio Lua (Lean Pork Pie), Cha Ca (Grilled Minced Fish) and Banh Tom (Crispy Shrimp Pastry).
If you do have time to spare, do indulge in a cup (or two) of Vietnamese coffee. They are rated among the world’s best for aroma and taste, but more importantly, Vietnamese coffee is inexpensive.
Attractions:
Hanoi, rich with cultural history and charm, boasts a wide selection of attractions not to be missed. Among the favourites are:
- The Old Quarter – This area is made up of over 40 streets of shops. You can find a myriad of shops selling silks, textiles, jewellery, antiques and religious objects. Among these shops, you can also find art galleries and craft stores. If you are famished do stop by one of the cafes or restaurants to fill your stomach.
- Ho Chi Minh’s Mausoleum – This mausoleum is located in Ba Dinh Square – the place where the independence of Vietnam is declared. Security is tight here and visitors are expected to dress appropriately and behave piously.
- Ho Chi Minh Museum – This museum was built to honour and remember the life of Ho Chi Minh. Here you can find memorabilia, correspondence, photographs, manifestos and military orders from Ho Chi Minh’s life that played a very crucial and significant role in Vietnam’s history.
- One Pillar Pagoda – This pagoda amazingly stands on just one pillar, hence the name. It was built during the reign of Emperor Ly Thai Tong in honour of Buddha for blessing him with an heir. The pagoda was designed to resemble a lotus flower on which Buddha is seated.
- Temple of Literature – This temple was constructed by Emperor Ly Thai Tong to honour those who excel academically, and to pay tribute to education as a whole. It was later converted to be Hanoi’s first University.
Other also not to be missed attractions in Hanoi are Ngoc Son Temple, Quan Thanh Temple, Hai Ba Trung Temple, The History Museum, The Revolution Museum, The Army Museum and The Fine Arts Museum.
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