Hanoi & Halong Bay, Vietnam

Last year, I had the incredible opportunity to explore the vibrant country of Vietnam (Click here to see more from my last trip). During that trip, I visited some beautiful cities, indulging in the local food scene, and immersing myself in the stunning landscapes. However, this year, I embarked on a fresh adventure, visiting new cities in Vietnam and embarking on a scenic cruise through Hanoi and Halong Bay, two must-see destinations that offer a unique, unforgettable experience. If you're planning your own journey to Vietnam, I’ve got you covered with insights, tips, and everything you need to know about these two magical places.

Hanoi, Vietnam

Hanoi, Vietnam's vibrant capital, is a perfect blend of old-world charm and modern energy. The city is a rich tapestry of history, from the iconic Old Quarter and Hoan Kiem Lake to ancient temples that echo Vietnam’s cultural heritage. After visiting last year, I was excited to dive deeper into Hanoi's vibrant life and explore even more hidden gems I missed the first time.

Our stay at Elegant Mansion 88 truly made the trip. Nestled in a quieter part of the city, it was the perfect peaceful retreat after a busy day of sightseeing. The rooms were spacious, stylish, and blended modern touches with Hanoi’s traditional charm. The staff was incredibly welcoming, making us feel right at home.

While in Hanoi, make sure to check out the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum and take a stroll through the Old Quarter. You’ll find charming alleyways, vibrant markets, and some of the best street food around. Speaking of food, Bun Cha is an absolute must-try. The combination of grilled pork, noodles, fresh herbs, and savory broth will blow you away! Don't forget to enjoy a bowl of pho and sip on egg coffee while you're there.

Hanoi is truly a place that leaves an impression. Whether you’re into history, food, or simply soaking in the local culture, this city has something for everyone.

Pho Gia Truyen (49 Bát Đàn, Cửa Đông, Hoàn Kiếm, Hà Nội, Vietnam):  This iconic spot serves one of the best bowls of pho in Hanoi. The broth is perfectly rich and flavorful, and the tender beef or chicken pairs wonderfully with the noodles. A must-stop for pho lovers!

Quan An Ngon (18 Phan Boi Chau, Cua Nam, Hoan Kiem, Hanoi, Vietnam): This charming restaurant offers a wide variety of traditional Vietnamese dishes. The Banh Cuon is light and flavorful, and the Cha Ca is a Hanoi specialty you won't want to miss. The setting is cozy, and the atmosphere is perfect for trying a range of authentic dishes.

Cafe Giang (39 Nguyen Huu Huan, Hoan Kiem, Hanoi, Vietnam): A cozy, hidden gem in Hanoi, Cafe Giang is famous for its egg coffee, a rich, creamy drink made with egg yolks, sugar, condensed milk, and a strong coffee base. It's a unique experience and a must-try when in Hanoi!

Bun Cha Huong Lien (24 Le Van Huu, Hanoi, Vietnam): This humble restaurant gained international fame after President Obama dined here with Anthony Bourdain. The Bun Cha (grilled pork with vermicelli noodles) is flavorful, and the grilled pork is deliciously smoky. A great place for a quick and satisfying meal.

Bún Chả Ta (21 Nguyễn Hữu Huân, Hoàn Kiếm District, Hanoi): This was by far my favorite restaurant in Vietnam because the Bun Cha was so intense and flavorful - definitely the best version I tried!

Halong Bay, Vietnam

Halong Bay, located just a few hours outside of Hanoi, is a breathtaking UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Vietnam's most famous natural wonders. It’s known for its emerald waters and towering limestone islands, making it an ideal place for a relaxing cruise.

During my trip, we boarded the Grand Pioneer Cruise that took us through the heart of the bay, offering stunning views of its iconic karst formations. We explored some of the small islands, went kayaking, and took in the beautiful sunsets that this region is famous for. Whether you’re into photography, hiking, or just soaking in nature’s beauty, Halong Bay is an experience you won’t want to miss.

The best time to visit Hanoi and Halong Bay is between October and April, when the weather is cooler and less humid. For transportation in Hanoi, taxis are inexpensive, and Grab (a ride-sharing app) is very popular.

Final Thoughts

As I reflect on my experiences in Hanoi and Halong Bay, it becomes clear that Vietnam's resilience and spirit are felt not just in its landscapes and history but also in the people who continue to live life to its fullest. I had the chance to dive deeper into the culture and landscapes this year, and it was absolutely worth it. If you're curious about my previous adventures in Vietnam, check out my last year’s trip to different cities and a beautiful cruise that offered a whole new perspective of this stunning country. Read More Here.

Stay Connected

For more wedding inspiration and behind-the-scenes content, follow me my wedding content creation pages:

Instagram: @viv.hana_socials

TikTok: @viv.hana_socials

Youtube: Vivian Hana

Pinterest: Vivian Hana

Website Coming Soon: Linktree

Inquiries: Submit our inquiry form

________________________________________________________________________________

Keep up with my personal life, inspirations, and everything in between on my personal accounts:

Instagram: @viv.hana

TikTok: @viv.hana

Subscribe to the newsletter: Sign up here

________________________________________________________________________________

Find all my favorite items linked on LIKEtoKNOW.it and my Amazon Storefront.

LTK: @viv.hana

Amazon: Vivian Hana

Thank you for reading and supporting! Stay tuned for more updates, and I can’t wait to connect with you!

Shop The Post