Mr. Hotsia Recommends 3 Things to Do Upon Arrival at Hanoi Airport

Mr. Hotsia Recommends 3 Things to Do Upon Arrival at Hanoi Airport

Hanoi, the charming capital of northern Vietnam, is the starting point of adventures that I, Mr. Hotsia, often revisit. One reason is that Noi Bai Airport here is the gateway to discovering the culture, food, and authentic lifestyle of the Vietnamese people. Today, I will share my direct experience and recommend 3 things you should do immediately after stepping off the plane at Noi Bai Airport.

1. Manage Your Transportation into the City Smartly

The first thing I recommend is to plan your trip from the airport to the heart of Hanoi in advance. After a flight, you might be quite tired. Choosing the right transportation method will save you both time and money. For me, taking Bus No. 17 is the most cost-effective option. Although it takes longer than a taxi or van, it’s cheaper and you don’t have to wait long like with vans, which sometimes only depart when full. Plus, you get to experience the local lifestyle along the way.

This bus departs right in front of the airport and takes you to the Phố Cổ (Old Quarter), an ancient district of Hanoi where I usually relax and stroll after arriving.Read more about backpacking in Hanoihere

2. Recharge with Authentic Vietnamese Food at or Near the Airport

After immigration and baggage claim, I recommend grabbing a bite before continuing your journey. The Vietnamese food here is fresh and flavorful, rivaling anywhere in the world. I like ordering Vietnamese Chicken Biryani or Grilled Squid, famous for their sweet tenderness and fragrant local spices. If you’re interested in these recommended dishes, I have videosVietnamese Chicken BiryaniandVietnamese Grilled Squidfor you to watch.

Additionally, the airport area has several local shops and restaurants welcoming travelers, allowing you to taste traditional flavors before exploring Hanoi.

3. Prepare and Research Hanoi’s Attractions Thoroughly

Once in Hanoi, I usually take some time to plan my sightseeing carefully, especially if you’re a solo traveler. I suggest buying a local map, asking tourism staff at the airport, or even visiting tour booths before heading out to know what interesting places are available in Hanoi and nearby.

Hanoi is not just about Hoan Kiem Lake or the Old Quarter; it also has many ancient temples and fascinating sites like Cao Dai Temple, a new religion blending various cultures in an intriguing way.Read the story about Cao Dai Temple hereto enrich your travel experience.

Tips from Hanoi Airport to the City Center

From my many trips with Lao Airlines flying direct from Vientiane to Hanoi, with fares around 4000 baht, it’s very worthwhile, especially if you plan to explore Hanoi and nearby areas thoroughly. Taking Bus No. 17 from the airport to the city helped me save costs and see the morning street life of Hanoi.

If you prefer convenience and a relaxed pace, I recommend staying in the Phố Cổ area, where the street is full of budget accommodations, restaurants, and many attractions, close to places I’ve written about inmy Hanoi travel articlewhich will help you prepare for your trip more easily.

Summary

Hanoi Airport is not just a transit point but a gateway to memorable travel experiences. I, Mr. Hotsia, recommend you

• choose smart transportation into the city by using Bus No. 17 to save money and experience local life,
• find authentic Vietnamese food at or near the airport to recharge and taste local flavors,
• and prepare and plan your trip carefully by researching attractions and tours that suit your style.

If you want to see more images and details, you can watch the videoMr. Hotsia Recommends 3 Things to Do Upon Arrival at Hanoi AirportSee you in Hanoi!