ha noi Hanoi

Hanoi, the vibrant capital city with its unique charm

When talking about Vietnam, many might immediately think of Ho Chi Minh City or Saigon, but for me, mr.hotsia, Hanoi is a destination you must visit at least once. This is the capital city of Vietnam full of authentic life, a local way of living that is admirably preserved, and most importantly, food that is fresh and boldly flavored every meal.

Traveling to Hanoi chosen by mr.hotsia

For this trip, I chose to fly direct from Vientiane with Lao Airlines. It took just over an hour to reach Noi Bai Airport in Hanoi city. For transportation from the airport to the city center, I recommend taking bus number 17 right outside the terminal. It’s better than vans or taxis because it’s economical and has clear stops. Although it takes a bit longer, you get to experience the scenery along the way.

Experience life in the Phố Cổ (Old Quarter) area, the soul of Hanoi

Phố Cổ, or the Old Quarter, is the historic district of Hanoi that I, mr.hotsia, love to stroll through the most. Narrow streets filled with local shops and street food stalls line up so densely that it’s hard to choose. This area blends tourists and locals harmoniously, with the aroma of spices and Vietnamese seasonings mixing with the sounds of motorbikes and street vendors calling out.

One of the must-visit places is Đồng Xuân Market, the largest and oldest market in Hanoi. This is not just a regular market but a true center of Hanoi’s lifestyle. You will see trading of fresh produce, seafood, fruits and vegetables, as well as textiles and souvenirs.

Authentic Vietnamese food with flavors you must try from mr.hotsia

I believe that traveling anywhere without tasting the local food is like not really visiting. Vietnamese food here has a unique character, fresh and clean. For example, Phở, with its rich and balanced broth, whether chicken or beef, is equally delicious.

Additionally, I recommend trying the "Vietnamese Grilled Button Squid," a famous seafood dish in Hanoi. It has a fragrant smoky flavor from the charcoal grill and is served with a spicy dipping sauce. This is a special dish I recently discovered in the Phố Cổ area. Watch my grilled button squid video here.Vietnamese Grilled Button Squid

If you like rice dishes, don’t miss the "Vietnamese Chicken Biryani," which combines distinctive spices and is served with dipping sauce and fresh vegetables. Watch the full review in the video.Vietnamese Chicken Biryaniwhich I recorded on this trip

Lifestyle and transportation within Hanoi

Hanoi is a city full of charm and the authentic nature of Vietnamese urban life. For getting around the city, I mostly choose to walk and use motorcycle taxis (xe ôm), which are affordable and very convenient. Sometimes I also use buses that cover routes throughout the city.

If anyone wants to dive deeper into traveling Hanoi independently, try reading the articleSelf-Guided Hanoi Travel 2013that I wrote, which gives an overview of time management, transportation, and main attractions worth visiting.

Connecting with experiences in Ho Chi Minh City

Many who have been to Ho Chi Minh City might think Saigon is the capital of Vietnam, but actually, Hanoi is the capital and the important center of the northern region. In a previous trip, I wrote about traveling in Ho Chi Minh City and interesting tours as well. If anyone wants to compare the atmosphere of these two cities, you can read the articlesBuying Tours in Ho Chi Minh CityandHo Chi Minh City Travel Informationwhere I shared detailed experiences.

Relaxing in Hanoi with affordable accommodations in great locations

For accommodations, I usually choose the city center or near the Phố Cổ area because it’s convenient for traveling and finding local food. For those who like a chill atmosphere like me, I recommend checking reviews and choosing accommodations based on your taste and budget in the articleBackpacking Hanoi 2016where I shared complete experiences about lodging and transportation.

Summary of feelings from mr.hotsia after traveling in Hanoi

Hanoi is an easy-to-travel city with the charm of an old town that still preserves life and culture well. The food is delicious, the lifestyle is simple but vibrant, with markets, walking streets, and historical attractions to explore endlessly. If anyone is looking for a unique travel destination, I wholeheartedly recommend Hanoi and guarantee you will be as impressed as I am, mr.hotsia.

Finally, if you are interested in following my travel stories in Hanoi, you can watch the introduction video hereha noi Hanoito experience the real atmosphere from my journey.