Places to See in Hanoi
Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum
We started our tour with the most important person’s mausoleum in Vietnam’s history, Ho Chi Minh. Even there is a city deriving name from him but surprisingly the mauseloum is located in Hanoi rather than Ho Chi Minh.
There are so many guardians protecting the place. Strict rules apply. Sleeveless tops and short shorts are not allowed when entering, and smiling while walking around is not welcomed. We entered and exited with a bit of tension. It was a visit where we discussed the concepts of “respect,” “fear,” “hierarchy,” and “power” at length. The square where this mausoleum is located is also the place where Ho Chi Minh read the Vietnamese Declaration of Independence in 1945.
Temple of Literature
The Temple of Literature in Hanoi is a historic and cultural gem, known for hosting Vietnam’s first national university. Within its tranquil courtyard, the topics of students’ theses are inscribed on turtle statues, symbolizing wisdom and learning. The lush greenery makes the space serene, though it was quite crowded during our visit.
Hanoi Train Street
The train track stretches quite a long way, with several streets lined with charming cafes on both sides. Vibrant wall paintings add a colorful backdrop to the area. The train passes at specific times, not very frequently, but the atmosphere in the cafes becomes electric as its arrival approaches. To fully enjoy the experience, check the train schedule and arrive early to secure a good spot. As the train’s arrival nears, get ready for a thrilling moment. Staff might ask you to move your chair back slightly, and the train will pass astonishingly close—an exhilarating and slightly frightening experience. Be prepared, though; capturing the moment with a photo or video can be tricky due to how close the train gets.
Halong Bay
Halong Bay is not located in Hanoi, but it is easily accessible from the city, though visiting typically takes up an entire day. There are various transportation options, including public buses, shuttles, and trains, depending on your budget. As part of a tour, we had a bus arranged to take us to the bay. Once there, we boarded a boat and were immediately captivated by the stunning scenery. The bay’s emerald waters and lush, green islet formations create a truly breathtaking landscape. The boat trip was both relaxing and memorable. Our only stop during the tour was at Dau Go Cave. The climb to the cave offers several viewpoints perfect for capturing scenic photos, while the cave itself is a visual delight. It’s spacious, beautifully illuminated with soft, romantic lighting, and provides a unique atmosphere for visitors to explore.
