Hanoi, Vietnam

Hanoi, the capital city of Vietnam, has a rich and complex history that dates back over a thousand years. Here is a brief overview of its history:

1. Ancient Times: The area around present-day Hanoi has been inhabited since ancient times. The region was part of the Red River Delta civilization, which emerged around 3000 BCE. Various kingdoms and dynasties ruled the area, including the Chinese domination during the Han Dynasty (111 BCE) and later the Tang Dynasty (7th century).

2. Founding of Hanoi: In 1010, Emperor Ly Thai To moved the capital of Vietnam from Hoa Lu (present-day Ninh Binh) to Dai La, which was later renamed Thang Long (“Rising Dragon“). This marked the foundation of Hanoi as the political and cultural center of Vietnam.

3. Imperial Period: Hanoi became the capital of the independent Vietnamese dynasties that followed the Ly dynasty. It thrived as a trading hub and witnessed the construction of many important landmarks, including the Temple of Literature (1070) and the One Pillar Pagoda (1049).

4. French Colonial Rule: In the late 19th century, Hanoi came under French colonial rule. The French transformed the city with the construction of wide boulevards, French-style buildings, and the iconic Opera House (1911). Hanoi became the capital of French Indochina in 1887.

5. Independence Movement: Hanoi became a center for the Vietnamese independence movement during the early 20th century. Various nationalist and revolutionary movements, including the Indochinese Communist Party led by Ho Chi Minh, emerged in the city.

6. Vietnam War: Hanoi played a significant role during the Vietnam War. It served as the headquarters of the North Vietnamese government and was heavily bombed by the United States. The city‘s resilience and determination during this period became a symbol of Vietnamese resistance.

7. Reunification and Modernization: Following the end of the Vietnam War in 1975, Hanoi became the capital of a unified Vietnam. The city underwent rapid modernization and development, with new infrastructure, high-rise buildings, and an expanding economy.

Today, Hanoi is a vibrant and bustling city, known for its unique blend of ancient and modern architecture, rich cultural heritage, and bustling street life. It remains the political, cultural, and economic center of Vietnam.

Here are the top 10 tourist attractions in Hanoi, Vietnam with relevant details:

1. Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum – The mausoleum of Ho Chi Minh, the first president of independent Vietnam. Free entry. Open daily from 7:30 to 11:00 and 2:00 to 4:00. Trang tin điện tử Ban quản lý Lăng Chủ tịch Hồ Chí Minh (bqllang.gov.vn)

2. Temple of Literature – Dedicated to Confucius, this is Vietnam‘s first university built in 1070. Free entry. Open daily from 6:30 to 11:30 and 1:30 to 5:30. Văn Miếu – Quốc Tử Giám (vanmieu.gov.vn)

3. One Pillar Pagoda – Built in the 11th century, this is a famous symbol of Hanoi. Free entry. Open daily from 6:00 to 11:00 and 1:30 to 5:00. One Pillar Pagoda – The most unique architecture in Vietnam | Vietnam tourism

4. Hoan Kiem Lake – The center of Hanoi city life with a temple on an islet in the lake. Free entry. Open daily 24 hours. 

5. Hanoi Old Quarter – The historic 36 streets of Hanoi dating from the 13th to 15th centuries. Free entry. Open daily 24 hours. 

6. Vietnam Museum of Ethnology – Showcases the ethnic and cultural diversity of Vietnam. 20,000 VND. Open Tuesday to Sunday from 8:00 to 17:00. http://vme.org.vn/en

7. Hanoi Hilton – The infamous colonial prison where US POWs were detained. 35,000 VND. Open daily from 7:30 to 11:30 and 1:30 to 4:30. Trang chủ – Di tích nhà tù Hỏa Lò (hoalo.vn)

8. Temple of Literature Park– A peaceful Confucian temple and park. Free entry. Open daily from 6:00 to 17:30. Văn Miếu – Quốc Tử Giám (vanmieu.gov.vn)

9. Socialist Republic of Vietnam Museum – Vietnamese revolutionary and military history museum. 30,000 VND. Open Tuesday to Sunday from 8:00 to 11:30 and 1:30 to 4:30. baotanglichsu.vn

10. Long Bien Bridge – A steel bridge over the Red River built by the French in 1902–1928. Free entry. Open daily 24 hours.

Here are 5 popular day trips from Hanoi:

1. Ha Long Bay: Located approximately 170 km (105 miles) east of Hanoi, Ha Long Bay is a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its stunning limestone karsts and emerald waters. Visitors can take a boat tour to explore the bay, visit caves, and enjoy activities like kayaking and swimming. Entry fees vary depending on the type of tour or cruise chosen. Operating hours and contact information can be obtained from the tour companies or cruise operators. 

2. Ninh Binh: Ninh Binh is a province located about 100 km (62 miles) south of Hanoi. It is often referred to as “Ha Long Bay on land“ due to its similar karst landscape. Popular attractions in Ninh Binh include Tam Coc, Trang An, and Bai Dinh Pagoda. Entry fees and operating hours may vary depending on the specific attraction. It is recommended to check with each site individually for the most up-to-date information.

3. Perfume Pagoda: Situated approximately 60 km (37 miles) southwest of Hanoi, Perfume Pagoda is a complex of Buddhist temples nestled amidst the scenic Huong Tich mountains. Visitors can take a boat ride along the Yen River and then hike or take a cable car up to the pagoda. Entry fees and operating hours can be obtained from the local tour operators or the pagoda‘s official website. Address: Huong Son, My Duc, Hanoi.

4. Mai Chau: Located about 140 km (87 miles) southwest of Hanoi, Mai Chau is a picturesque valley known for its stunning landscapes, traditional stilt houses, and vibrant ethnic minority cultures. Visitors can explore the local villages, go hiking or cycling through the rice fields, and experience the warm hospitality of the Thai ethnic group. There is no specific entry fee, but costs may vary depending on accommodations and activities chosen. Operating hours are not applicable.

5. Bat Trang Ceramic Village: Situated approximately 13 km (8 miles) southeast of Hanoi, Bat Trang is a traditional ceramic village known for its centuries-old pottery craftsmanship. Visitors can wander through the narrow streets lined with pottery shops, observe artisans at work, and even try their hand at making their own pottery. There is no entry fee to visit the village, but costs for purchasing pottery or participating in workshops may vary. Operating hours are typically from morning to late afternoon. Address: Bat Trang, Gia Lam, Hanoi.

Please note that specific contact information, entry fees, and operating hours may change over time, so it is recommended to check the respective websites or contact the attractions directly for the most up-to-date information.

In Hanoi, Vietnam, there are several types of transportation available. Here are some of the most common ones:

1. Motorbike Taxis (Xe ôm): – Cost range: Varies depending on the distance, usually around 10,000 to 50,000 VND. – Hours of operation: Available 24/7. – Website link: N/A- can hail on the street.

2. Taxis: – Cost range: Starting fare is around 12,000 VND, and the rate per kilometer is approximately 14,000 VND. – Hours of operation: Available 24/7. – Website link: N/A- can hail on the street and at taxi stands.

3. Grab (ride-hailing service): – Cost range: Starting fare is around 8,000 VND, and the rate per kilometer is approximately 10,000 VND. – Hours of operation: Available 24/7. – Website link: https://www.grab.com/vn

4. Public Buses: – Cost range: 7,000 to 9,000 VND per trip. – Hours of operation: Generally from 5:00 AM to 10:00 PM, but it varies depending on the route. – Website link: http://timbus.vn/

5. Electric Buses: – Cost range: 7,000 VND per trip. – Hours of operation: Generally from 5:00 AM to 10:00 PM, but it varies depending on the route. – Website link: N/A.

6. Cyclo (three-wheeled bicycle taxi): – Cost range: Negotiable, usually around 100,000 to 200,000 VND per hour. – Hours of operation: Most common during the daytime until around 10:00 PM. – Website link: N/A- can hail on street.

7. Metro (under construction, expected to open in 2021): – Cost range: Not available yet. – Hours of operation: To be determined. – Website link: N/A

Please note that the provided cost ranges are approximate and may vary depending on factors such as distance, traffic conditions, and negotiation skills. Additionally, some transportation options may not have official websites.

There is one main international airport near Hanoi, Vietnam:

1. Noi Bai International Airport (HAN): – Website: https://www.hanoiairportonline.com

– Distance from city center: Approximately 28 kilometers (17 miles) – Transportation options:

– Taxi: Taxis are readily available at the airport. The cost is around 300,000–400,000 VND (approximately $13-$17 USD). You can find taxi counters inside the terminal.

– Airport Shuttle Bus: The airport operates shuttle buses to the city center. The cost is around 40,000 VND (approximately $1.70 USD). Buses depart every 15–20 minutes. For more information, visit: https://www.hanoiairportonline.com/en/transportation/airport-shuttle-bus.

– Private Car Transfer: Several companies offer private car transfers from the airport to the city center. Prices vary depending on the type of vehicle and company. You can find more information through a quick search.

– Time from city center: The journey takes approximately 30–45 minutes, depending on traffic conditions.

Note: Noi Bai International Airport is the main airport serving Hanoi and is well-connected to various domestic and international destinations.

The currency used in Vietnam is the Vietnamese đồng (VND). Here are the denominations in both paper and coin form:

Paper denominations:

– 1,000 VND

– 2,000 VND

– 5,000 VND

– 10,000 VND

– 20,000 VND

– 50,000 VND

– 100,000 VND

– 200,000 VND

– 500,000 VND

Coin denominations:

– 200 VND

– 500 VND

– 1,000 VND

– 2,000 VND

– 5,000 VND

Hanoi has a humid subtropical climate, characterized by four distinct seasons: spring, summer, autumn, and winter.

1. Spring (March to April): Spring in Hanoi is generally mild and pleasant with temperatures ranging from 15–25°C (59–77°F). However, it can be quite unpredictable, with occasional rain showers. It‘s advisable to pack lightweight clothing, a light jacket or sweater for cooler evenings, and an umbrella or raincoat.

2. Summer (May to August): Hanoi‘s summer is hot and humid, with temperatures ranging from 25–35°C (77–95°F). It‘s recommended to pack lightweight and breathable clothing such as shorts, t-shirts, dresses, and sandals. Don‘t forget sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses to protect yourself from the intense sun.

3. Autumn (September to November): Autumn in Hanoi is considered the most pleasant season, with mild temperatures ranging from 20–30°C (68–86°F). You can pack a mix of lightweight and slightly warmer clothing, such as long-sleeved shirts, light sweaters, and pants. It‘s also a good idea to have a light rain jacket or umbrella handy, as occasional rain showers can occur.

4. Winter (December to February): Hanoi‘s winter is relatively cool and dry, with temperatures ranging from 10–20°C (50–68°F). You should pack warmer clothing such as sweaters, jackets, long-sleeved shirts, and pants. Layering is recommended as temperatures can vary throughout the day. Occasionally, it can get quite chilly, so a coat or heavier jacket may be needed.

Remember that these are general guidelines, and it‘s always a good idea to check the weather forecast closer to your travel date for more accurate information.