Snowflake's Travel Blog

Lakes and Boulevards I - Hanoi, Vietnam

visited 2006

The phrase 'faded grandeur' could have been coined specifically for the city of Hanoi. Nowhere in Asia is the architectural heritage of the past so well preserved. Many of the grandiose villas and palaces built by the French are still in use today, mostly as government buildings. Wide, tree-lined boulevards skirt the misty lakes of the city and amongst it all are ancient temples and busy markets. Hanoi is a truly fascinating and charming destination and few who visit fail to fall for the romance of the city. The day begins in Hanoi long before dawn as traders bring their goods into the city by bicycle and handcart, stocking the markets for the morning trade. The highlight is the impossibly colourful and vibrant flower market, a truly unforgettable experience for the early riser. As the watery sun rises over the city and mist rises from the lakes, seemingly the entire population of the city takes to the lakesides, parks and streets for their morning exercise. Elderly citizens display astonishing suppleness and control as they practice Tai Chi in the dawn light. As the sun warms the city, the real business of the day begins – business. The ‘Old Quarter’ of Hanoi has been a shopper’s paradise since the 15th century, when the 36 streets of 36 Guilds were first created. The guilds of craftsmen sold rice, silk and even gravestones in those days, but today you are more likely to find boutiques selling exquisite silk clothing, intricately embroidered table cloths, hand-painted wooden sandals or a fine art gallery. Many travelers to Hanoi regard foraging for bargains around the Old Quarter as a highlight of their trip to Vietnam.

posted Dec 18, 2006 | Comments (0)