Amazing Hanoi 2016: A Collection of Unique Morning Colors in Hanoi 2016

Amazing Hanoi 2016: A Collection of Unique Morning Colors in Hanoi 2016

Hanoi, the capital city of Vietnam, has endured many decades yet still perfectly blends the charm of Northern Vietnam with modernity. I, mr.hotsia, had the opportunity to travel here in early 2016 to capture images and flavors of Hanoi from perspectives many may have never seen, especially the unique and colorful morning atmosphere full of city life.

Starting the morning in Hanoi with the lifestyle around Hoàn Kiếm Lake

On my first morning after landing on a Lao Airlines flight at Noi Bai Airport, I chose to take bus number 17 from the airport into downtown Hanoi. Besides being economical, it allowed me to see the scenery gradually changing from the suburbs to the heart of Hanoi. The bustling traffic and continuous honking are distinctive features of this city.

I began the day with a walk around Hoàn Kiếm Lake. The morning atmosphere in Hanoi is peaceful, unlike the daytime hustle and bustle. Here, you will see locals gathering to exercise with Tai Chi, dance, and practice yoga by the lake. Some row small boats on the lake, a clear image showing the city's people's close bond with nature.

Phu Xa Ter Morning Market: Colors and Aromas of Northern Vietnamese Food

Not far from Hoàn Kiếm Lake is the Phố Cổ area, or Hanoi Old Quarter. This is a lively hub of shops, restaurants, and a bustling morning market starting from dawn. I walked through the crowd and chaotic motorbikes to see the morning market full of fresh produce, local food, and handmade crafts.

This morning market offers a variety of delicious foods to try, such asPhoor beef noodle soup, which has the fragrant aroma of Chinese herbal spices, fresh vegetables neatly arranged, and hot broth that made me feel the true Northern Vietnamese flavor. There was also grilled button squid that I tried from a street stall, a delicious and novel dish for me (if anyone is interested, see the clipVietnamese Grilled Button Squidthat I previously recorded).

Travel and Accommodation in Hanoi

For travelers like me who enjoy backpacking, finding affordable accommodation in Hanoi is not difficult. The Phố Cổ area is a great choice because it is close to tourist attractions and offers many budget accommodations and local restaurants. On this trip, I chose to stay in a small hostel near the market that was convenient and clean.

If anyone wants to read detailed travel experiences and accommodation advice in Hanoi, you can read the articleBackpacking Hanoi 2016that I wrote earlier.

Experience Local Life and Traditional Culture

Besides food and morning markets, Hanoi also has interesting temples and sacred places. I visited ancient temples and observed local ceremonies that have preserved traditions for a long time. Walking around temples in various areas helped me understand the beliefs and lifestyles of Northern Vietnamese people more deeply.

If you want to experience temple visits in detail, try reading the articleTemples of the Cao Dai Religionwhich is a new religion combining beliefs from several religions. It is very interesting.

Hanoi and Its Fascinating Differences

What I like most about Hanoi is its differences — the blend of old and new, a simple lifestyle with unique charm. You will see locals wearing áo dài walking and selling goods by the street, and groups of young people hanging out at modern-style coffee shops. Everything blends perfectly into a memorable picture.

If you have traveled to Ho Chi Minh City before, you might feel that Hanoi is distinctly different because Ho Chi Minh City is more Western-style bustling (read more atHo Chi Minh Travel Information). Meanwhile, Hanoi firmly retains the charm of the Northern Vietnamese capital.

Ending the Day with Northern Vietnamese Flavors

After a day of walking around, I chose to eat chicken biryani at a small restaurant in Hanoi's night market. The chicken biryani here has a fragrant spice aroma and tender chicken, served with the restaurant's special dipping sauce. It was another dish I was very impressed with (click to watch the clipVietnamese Chicken Biryanito see the atmosphere and preparation).

Tasting local food and observing the nightlife market lifestyle made me feel that Hanoi is not just a capital city with history but also a lively city full of warmth from the locals.

Summary of Impressions from Amazing Hanoi 2016

In mr.hotsia’s eyes, Hanoi is a city full of colors and newness every morning, whether it is the bustling morning market, the lifestyle around Hoàn Kiếm Lake, or the diverse food flavors. All these are experiences I highly recommend everyone try for themselves.

If you are planning to travel to Northern Vietnam, don’t forget to visit Hanoi, the capital city with unique differences and charm. For more in-depth travel information about Hanoi, mr.hotsia has a self-guided travel article from 2013 that will help you prepare better.Self-Guided Hanoi Travel 2013

Finally, if anyone wants to see the full atmosphere of Hanoi, try watching the clipAmazing Hanoi 2016: A Collection of Unique Morning Colors in Hanoi 2016that I recorded, which will help you better visualize the lively spirit of this city.