Vietnam was the first country I visited abroad, and it will always hold a special place in my heart. It sparked my curiosity to travel to different places and explore the world. I believe it’s essential to experience something—whether it’s food, a location, or an activity—to truly know if it’s right for you. Without those experiences, all you have are mere imaginations of how things might be.
My trip to Vietnam was filled with both doubt and excitement. For reasons I can’t fully explain, I shed many tears during this journey, but I must say it was all worth it.
What happened in Hanoi, Vietnam, and why is it a sentimental favorite for me?
When I arrived in Hanoi around 3 AM during the summer, I found the weather to be humid even at dawn. My first step into this foreign land felt surreal, as I never imagined I would actually visit a different country. Vietnam is renowned globally for its history, politics, culture, and social dynamics, making my trip both interesting and exciting.
What did I do on my first day?
FOOD! My first day was entirely focused on trying the local cuisine. I wandered the streets of Hanoi to sample various dishes. Much of it consisted of noodles and soup, and I discovered that Vietnamese food has a somewhat sweet flavor, which I really enjoy. I also tried dim sum and several other dishes, the names of which I’ve sadly forgotten. I even visited a grocery store to buy some supplies and was surprised to find that their currency is measured in thousands and millions, making it feel like I was a millionaire in Vietnam with the Vietnamese dong.
At night, I explored the city of Hanoi, visiting several Buddhist temples and checking out various shops. The streets were busy, showcasing a wide variety of stores that offered clothes, shoes, beauty products, and souvenirs. I also ventured into the Beer Street ( Hoan Kiem , where bars and pubs were plentiful. This area was lively and buzzing with energy. If you’re looking for a place to have fun, relax, and enjoy yourself, the Party District is the place to be. I grabbed some bottles of beer, danced to the music, and even met some fellow tourists. Hanoi is filled with travelers, and the vibrant atmosphere means the city never truly sleeps. Overall, I found Hanoi to be warm and safe.
On the second day, I visited the Royal City Mall, an underground shopping center that is quite unique.
While I found it somewhat similar to malls in the Philippines, the architecture stood out and gave off a distinct cultural vibe. After exploring the mall, I went to a famous coffee shop to try egg coffee, a well-known specialty in Hanoi. The city has many coffee shops, each with its own unique concept. The egg coffee was the best and most unique coffee I have ever tasted; it was creamy and strong, which I truly appreciate in coffee.
On the third day, I traveled to Ha Long Bay, which was the highlight of my entire trip.
The countryside of Vietnam is beautiful, filled with lush greenery and rice paddies. If you love nature and scenic views, your visit to Ha Long Bay will be unforgettable. So, what makes Ha Long Bay so special? It truly is a paradise. The journey to each island, combined with the gentle breeze, is incredibly refreshing. The green-blue water brings a sense of serenity, and the islands themselves are wonders to explore. You can go kayaking and even paddle into caves, making for an adventurous experience. The rock formations and trees growing on the islands reveal that nature itself is a form of art, open to various interpretations. Everything was wonderful! The boat ride and the food were exactly what I needed—healing, fun, and fulfilling. Ha Long Bay is a must-visit destination in Vietnam, and I will definitely return.
On the fourth day, I visited the rooftop of the tallest hotel in Hanoi (INTERCONTINENTAL HANOI LANDMARK72).
I ordered some pizzas and a glass of wine while enjoying a panoramic view of the city. The sights offered a different perspective; the lights surrounding the city illuminated the dark sky with vibrancy and joy. Watching the city lights twinkle against the vast darkness was mesmerizing. Hanoi sparkled, and experiencing it from a 360-degree view at the top was a surreal moment worth remembering. I was pleasantly surprised by how sophisticated Hanoi has become and what it offers to tourists. The city has developed significantly over time and is truly unique.
On my last day in Hanoi, I returned to shop for souvenirs and visited a popular area for train watching.
For those unfamiliar, train watching is a common activity in Hanoi where people take time to observe the trains while enjoying food and drinks. Unfortunately, this turned out to be the least enjoyable part of my trip. The sound of the trains was jarring, and I felt uneasy about how close they passed to the shops where we were sitting. I admit I felt a bit cowardly about the experience, but I recognize that it was a unique opportunity nonetheless.
Finally, I took a ride on a motorbike around the city, although I’m hesitant to do it again. According to the motorbike driver, there are more motorbikes in Hanoi than people, which gives you an idea of how congested the streets are and how prevalent motorbikes are as a mode of transport.
Final say? Hanoi holds a sentimental place in my heart, and I consider it my second home.
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