Vietnam

Hanoi

Buzzing with life, Hanoi has so much to offer - delicious food, tons of shopping (clothes, art, etc.), theater, history, and more. Spend at least 2-3 days here.

Restaurants:

Banh Mi 25 (casual) -
- These sandwiches were so delicious, we ate here every day for 3 days. There may be a long wait, but it's worth it. More
Duong's (upscale/casual) -
- Delicious Vietnamese/French fusion food, beautifully presented in a comfortable and convenient setting. Excellent noodle/fresh rolls. More
The Gourmet Corner Restaurant (upscale) -
- Upscale restaurant with a great view high above the old quarter. There's also an open-air sky bar to enjoy before or after dinner. Service is excellent, as is the hot stone beef. More
Green Farm Restaurant (casual) -
- Excellent Vietnamese food with big menu for meat eaters and vegetarians alike. Open to street so you can enjoy people-watching while you eat. More

Activities:

Food and City Tour -
- A wonderful overview of the history of the city, some of its temples and cultural sites, and the food Vietnam has to offer.
Water Puppet Show -
- Charming water puppet show in Vietnamese. You may not know exactly what's going on, but you will be laughing or smiling and in awe of the puppeteers. More
Walk -
- Get lost for hours down the streets of the old quarter.

Insider Tips

Pro Tips - Taxi from the airport is $16-20 to the old quarter. There are airport taxis but if the hotel offers a car service, that's your best bet to arrive to the right place in a timely manner.

LGBT - Not totally accepted, but felt fine to stroll arm-in-arm.

Bathrooms - Somewhat hard to find outside of hotels and restaurants.

ATMs - Some work, some don't - they all work with a 6-digit pin. Load up at the airport so you don't have to worry.

Water - Tap water is not potable.

Tipping - 10% but at your discretion.