SummaryAirport Rating **** Reception of locals ***** Cost: £££
Back to HanoiIt has been a long time since I last visited Hanoi, almost a decade ago (and you can read about that trip here). It's a city that has long stuck in my mind and I was very happy to visit once again. The city that I saw this time around, however, was much altered. During my first visit, tourism existed but was at a much smaller scale - this time the city was heaving with tourists. Ten years ago, it was mostly French, German, British and Australian, this time around there were significantly more Chinese, American, and Indian tourists. The city felt a lot more modern and new buildings had gone up all over the city. That being said, as a Sikh I once again faced no issues whatsoever either in the airport or in the city, and as I was flying domestically from Ho Chi Minh City, I didn't have to deal with the insane queues for immigration that I did in the south of the country. The history of HanoiHanoi is the second-largest city in Vietnam after Ho Chi Minh City (which you can read about here), but it is also the capital city and has a population of over eight million people which makes it not much smaller than London or New York. The history of Hanoi dates back to the early 11th century when it was established as the capital by Emperor Ly Thai To of the Ly Dynasty. Originally named Thang Long, which means "Ascending Dragon," the city was chosen for its strategic location and favourable geography near rivers and several bodies of water - its current name, Hanoi. means "City Inside Rivers." During the French colonial era, which began in the late 19th century, Hanoi was transformed into a modern urban centre. The French colonial administration introduced new architectural styles, infrastructure, and institutions, many of which still stand today. This period also saw the construction of iconic landmarks such as the Hanoi Opera House, the Presidential Palace, and the Long Bien Bridge, some of which I visited last time out. The city played a crucial role during the struggle for Vietnamese independence in the 20th century. It was the focal point of resistance against French colonial rule and later against American intervention during the Vietnam War. On September 2, 1945, Ho Chi Minh declared the independence of Vietnam from French rule at Ba Dinh Square in Hanoi, marking the birth of the Democratic Republic of Vietnam. Hanoi then became the capital of North Vietnam and, following the reunification of the country in 1976, the capital of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam. In present-day Vietnam, Hanoi continues to serve as the political, cultural, and economic centre of the nation. The city is the seat of the Vietnamese government, housing the offices of the President, the National Assembly, and other key government institutions. As the political heart of the country, Hanoi is a hub for diplomatic activities, hosting numerous embassies and international organisations. Hoan Kiem LakeThe heart of Hanoi is undoubtedly Hoan Kiem Lake. Its name translates to "Lake of the Returned Sword," and the legend associated with it is deeply embedded in Vietnamese culture. It dates back to the 15th century when the residing Emperor received a magical sword from the Golden Turtle God (Kim Qui) which he used to drive out the invading Chinese forces, securing Vietnamese independence. After his victory, while on a boat on the lake, the Golden Turtle surfaced and asked for the return of the sword. The Emperor complied, handing over the sword to the turtle, which then disappeared into the depths of the lake. I remembered this part of the city well from my previous trip, but so much had changed, particularly around the perimeter of the lake. New buildings had gone up, there are many more global chains than there were a decade ago, and the whole place felt much, much busier than it did during my first trip. Hoan Kiem Lake itself is relatively small with a perimeter of around 1.8 kilometres. Despite its modest size, it plays a pivotal role in the urban landscape of Hanoi. The lake's central location makes it a focal point of the city, drawing people for various activities such as morning exercises, leisurely strolls, and cultural events. Last time out I woke up early to watch the morning Tai Chi - this time out I spent more time relaxing during the mornings. One of the most iconic features of Hoan Kiem Lake is the Turtle Tower (Tháp Rùa), which stands on a small island near the southern end of the lake. The tower, built in the 19th century, is a tribute to the legend of the returned sword and serves as a symbol of the lake and the city itself. Although the tower is not open to the public, it remains one of the most photographed landmarks in Hanoi, especially when it is illuminated at night. Another famous site near Hoan Kiem Lake is Ngoc Son Temple (Temple of the Jade Mountain), situated on Jade Island at the northern end of the lake. The temple is dedicated to General Tran Hung Dao, a national hero who fought against the Mongol invasions in the 13th century, as well as to other historical and cultural figures. The temple complex includes several pavilions, a tower, and a beautiful red wooden bridge known as The Huc Bridge (Morning Sunlight Bridge) which connects the temple to the shore. The temple is a place of worship and during my visit was incredibly busy, you could barely move around inside - not with worshippers, but with tourists. Since my last visit, the Hanoi authorities have made efforts to enhance the lake's surroundings and maintain its cleanliness. The pedestrianisation of streets around the lake on weekends has turned it into a vibrant social space where people can enjoy leisurely walks, street performances, and various cultural activities without the interference of traffic. My stroll through the pedenstrianised perimeter was a highlight as it bought out a lot of locals and tourists, and everyone seemed to be enjoying themselves watching random street performers, eating, drinking, and just hanging out. Hoan Kiem Lake is also home to the famous Hoan Kiem turtle, a rare species of giant softshell turtle. The turtle, believed to be an incarnation of the legendary Golden Turtle God, became an important cultural icon. Although sightings of the turtle were rare, its presence added a mystical allure to the lake. Unfortunately, the last known Hoan Kiem turtle passed away in 2016, prompting concerns about the lake's ecological health. The area around the like is dotted with things to see and do - one of the most impressive is the imposing St. Joseph's Cathedral. It was inaugurated on December 24, 1886, by the French colonial administration and it was built on the site of the former Bao Thien Pagoda, which was demolished to make way for the cathedral which goes to show the lengths colonial powers went to impose their religion on local markets - so when people in the West say you can't build churches in eastern countries - just remind them of this story - it's one of many. The cathedral's design closely resembles the Notre-Dame Cathedral in Paris (which you can read about here), featuring twin bell towers, stained glass windows, and a large rose window. It measures 64.5 meters in length, 20.5 meters in width, and 31.5 meters in height, making it one of the largest churches in Vietnam. It is certainly one of the most imposing churches that I have seen in the far east. The Cathedral serves as the seat of the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Hanoi and remains an active place of worship. It is a focal point for the Catholic community in the city, hosting regular masses, religious festivals, and significant events like Christmas and Easter celebrations. The area around the cathedral, known as Nha Tho Street, has become a vibrant hub of cafes, restaurants, and shops, contributing to a lively atmosphere around the church. The Old QuarterI stayed in the Old Quarter, which remains my favourite part of the city, even all these years later. The Old Quarter is a labyrinth of narrow streets and alleys, each buzzing with life and steeped in history. Historically, the Old Quarter dates back to the 11th century and it initially served as a residential, manufacturing, and commercial centre. Each street was dedicated to a specific type of trade, often reflected in the street names, which include words like "Hang," meaning merchandise or shop, followed by the product sold there. For example, Hang Bac (Silver Street) was known for its silver products, while Hang Ma (Paper Street) was famous for its paper goods and votive papers. Today, the architecture here is a mix of traditional Vietnamese and colonial French influences, and many of the buildings are narrow, tube-shaped houses, designed this way due to historical tax regulations that taxed property based on the width of the street-facing facade. These houses often extend deep into the block, with multiple floors and courtyards which I thought looked pretty cool. The streets were just as busy as I remember them, with scooters crowding and zig zagging through every street in the Old Quarter making crossing the road tricky - just remember, walk straight and with purpose and they'll avoid you. It's something the American tourists seem to particularly struggle with. One of the most notable features of the Old Quarter is its market scene. The Dong Xuan Market, the largest in Hanoi, is located within this area. Established in 1889, it has been a vital part of the city's commercial landscape. Today, it sells a diverse range of products, from fresh produce and seafood to clothing and electronics. The market is a sensory overload, with vendors calling out to customers, and this was my second visit and while it felt a little more "orderly," it was still incredibly large and busy - certainly one of the busiest night markets that I have visited. The culinary scene in the Old Quarter is equally vibrant, with so many street food vendors and traditional restaurants. Some of Vietnam's most famous dishes, such as pho (noodle soup), bun cha (grilled pork with noodles), and banh mi (Vietnamese baguette), became famous here and the pho from this area in particular is very well known. You can take food tours, but I just followed recommendations from friends and locals, ending up at a couple of Michelin graded pho spots that cost less than a fiver for a meal. In fact, some of the restaurants that looked the grimiest sold the best pho. It's definitely worth spending a lot of time here. Train StreetEasily my favourite spot in the entire city is Train Street which is also located in the Old Quarter. It has become a popular tourist attraction due to its unusual setting, which is a narrow street, with residential buildings lining both sides, and train tracks that run right down the middle, with trains passing just inches away from homes and businesses. I am sure most people reading this will have seen videos of it on social media. The history of Train Street dates back to the early 20th century, during the French colonial period when the railway system was established in Vietnam. The train tracks that run through this narrow street are part of the North-South Railway line, which connects Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City. Over the decades, as the city expanded, residential buildings were constructed dangerously close to the tracks, leading to the creation of what is now known as Train Street. In present-day Hanoi, Train Street plays two roles. On one hand, it remains a vital part of the city's railway infrastructure, with trains regularly passing through. On the other hand, it has transformed into a tourist destination. The residents of Train Street have adapted to this peculiar situation, coexisting with the railway by setting our bars and restaurants that line the perimeter. Day-to-day, the residents go about their daily routines, cooking, cleaning, and socialising, all within arm's reach of the train tracks. When a train is scheduled to pass, residents, familiar with the train schedules, begin to clear the tracks of any obstacles, bringing in furniture, potted plants, and other items that encroach on the tracks. As the train approaches, tourists are guided to safe spots by local guides or residents, ensuring everyone stays out of harm's way. I visited several times, during the day and also in the evening and while things get crowded, during the week I was there it wasn't overly busy, and it was pretty easy finding a spot of your choice. I walked up the entire street to try and figure out where I might get the best views and then moved around between trains (you get several each day, particularly during the evenings). The feeling of the train going past, just centimetres from you is incredible, just as exhilarating as it looks on the videos. The residents also get people involved in socialising with each other which I also really enjoyed. However, the increasing popularity of Train Street has brought about certain challenges. The influx of tourists has led to concerns about safety and the impact on the residents' quality of life. In recent years, local authorities have implemented measures to manage the crowds and ensure safety. At times, access to the street has been restricted, and regulations have been put in place to control the flow of visitors. If you want to see a train, you have to sit and buy something from one of the cafes and bars that line the streets, and on more than a few occasions I saw tourists get an earful from locals when they would stray too close. Temple of LiteratureMoving further away from the Old Quarter and Hoan Kiem Lake is the Temple of Literature, one of the most important historical and cultural landmarks in Hanoi. Established in 1070, it is dedicated to Confucius, sages, and scholars. Originally built as a centre of learning and a place to honour Confucian scholarship, it later became Vietnam's first national university. The Imperial Academy within the Temple of Literature was the most important learning institution in Vietnam for nearly 700 years, until the 18th century. It was a prestigious institution where the sons of royalty and the elite were educated in Confucian texts, literature, and the arts. Scholars who graduated from the academy often went on to become high-ranking officials, playing crucial roles in the administration of the country. The Temple of Literature is a large complex and consists of several courtyards and pavilions, each with its own significance and beauty. The layout of the temple follows traditional Chinese architectural principles, with a series of courtyards aligned along a central axis. The main entrance is marked by the imposing Great Gate, which leads to the first courtyard. Inside the gates are well manicured gardens where loads of people were taking photos (including the now familiar influencers and insta "models"). The second courtyard, known as the Courtyard of Sages, has ancient trees and features the Khue Van Pavilion (Pavilion of Constellation of Literature) with its intricate wooden carvings and red lacquered roof that was built in 1805 and is dedicated to the beauty of literature and education. Moving deeper into the temple, I reached the third courtyard, which houses the Well of Heavenly Clarity (Thiên Quang Tỉnh) and the Stelae of Doctors. These stone stelae, mounted on the backs of turtle statues, commemorate the names and achievements of those who passed the royal examinations. There are 82 stelae remaining, dating from 1484 to 1780, each inscribed with the names of the laureates, their birthplaces, and the dates of their examinations. It's an incredible sight and a beautiful way to see the history of individuals. The fourth courtyard contains the main sanctuary, which is dedicated to Confucius and his four principal disciples: Yan Hui, Zengzi, Zisi, and Mencius and is the main place of worship. The final courtyard is home to the Imperial Academy, which includes classrooms, dormitories, and a library. This area has been restored and preserved to reflect its historical significance as the centre of higher learning in Vietnam. Tran Quoc PagodaFurther north is the Tran Quoc Pagoda, located on a small island in West Lake and it is one of the oldest and most significant Buddhist temples in Vietnam. With its roots stretching back over 1,500 years, Tran Quoc Pagoda reflects the enduring presence of Buddhism in Vietnamese culture and history. The pagoda, originally named Khai Quoc (National Founding), was constructed in the 6th century and was later renamed Tran Quoc (Protecting the Nation) in the 15th century. The pagoda's original location was on the banks of the Red River. However, due to the river's encroachment, it was relocated to its current site on Kim Ngưu Island in West Lake in the early 17th century. Tran Quoc Pagoda is about 15 metres high and is composed of eleven tiers, each representing a different aspect of Buddhist cosmology. The pagoda's architecture is a blend of Vietnamese and Buddhist styles and the main tower, known as the Lotus Tower, is a prominent feature covered with statues of the Buddha. Each tier of the tower contains a statue of Amitabha Buddha, a symbol of infinite light and life. The main sanctuary houses a number of ancient statues and relics, including a revered statue of Shakyamuni Buddha, the historical Buddha, crafted from precious materials such as gold and bronze. Surrounding the main sanctuary are smaller shrines and altars dedicated to various Buddhist deities and historical figures. Surrounding the pagoda is the West Lake, one of the largest in Hanoi, where you can hire some pedalos and go boating. But it's not something I would want to do. The lake had the stench of death and as I walked across a bridge toward the pagoda over the lake, I saw hundreds of dead fish floating on the surface. It's a testament to just how dirty some of the waterways in the city are and the impact of unregulated and unconstrained industrialisation. Mausoleum of Ho Chi MinhPerhaps the most famous part of the city is the area surrounding the Mausoleum of Ho Chi Minh. It attracts people from all over the country and further afield. I had spent the day walking around the area visiting the Temple of Literature and the Imperial Citadel, and it was an incredibly hot day, so I was pretty beat by the time I made it to the Mausoleum complex. The queue wasn't awful, about half an hour long, but it was tightly packed and filled with largely Chinese tourists who didn't think twice about pushing infront of people, so staying vigilant and pushing back for those 30 minutes sapped a little more energy. But it was worth it because the complex inside is genuinely nice. There's a decent amount to see and do, from temples and pagodas to museums and mausoleums. The One Pillar Pagoda, also known as Chùa Một Cột, is one of Vietnam's most important temples. Built in 1049 the temple relates to the emperor of the time, who was childless and dreamed of the Bodhisattva Avalokiteshvara handing him a baby boy while seated on a lotus flower. Shortly after, he married a peasant girl who bore him a son. In gratitude, the emperor built the pagoda to resemble a lotus blossom rising from a pond, symbolising purity and enlightenment. The original pagoda was destroyed during the First Indochina War, but it was rebuilt in 1955 to its former design. The current structure is a wooden pagoda supported by a single stone pillar, standing in the middle of a lotus pond. It's very small but insanely beautiful and during my visit it was busy, but not to the extent that I couldn't climb the stairs and take a look inside. I thought it was really worth the queuing outside just for this alone. Adjacent to the One Pillar Pagoda is the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, perhaps the most important political site in all of Vietnam. This monumental structure was built to honour Ho Chi Minh, the founding father of modern Vietnam and the leader of its struggle for independence. After his death in 1969, the decision was made to preserve his body and construct a mausoleum, inspired by the Lenin Mausoleum in Moscow. Construction began in 1973 and was completed in 1975. The mausoleum is an imposing granite structure, standing 21.6 metres high and 41.2 metres wide. Its design incorporates elements of Vietnamese and Soviet architecture, symbolising the country's historical alliances and ideological ties. The structure is surrounded by well-manicured gardens and a large parade ground, which is used for various state ceremonies and public gatherings. Inside the mausoleum, the embalmed body of Ho Chi Minh lies in a glass sarcophagus but during my visit they were not allowing any visitors inside so I can't make comments on what it's like. Perhaps I'll get a chance on another visit down the road some time. Nearby, the Ho Chi Minh Museum offers a look at the life and legacy of Ho Chi Minh. The museum was opened in 1990 to commemorate Ho Chi Minh’s 100th birthday. The museum provides visitors with an in-depth view of Ho Chi Minh's life, from his early years, his travels abroad, and his revolutionary activities, to his leadership in the fight for Vietnamese independence. Through a collection of personal items, documents, photographs, and memorabilia, the museum paints a vivid picture of his contributions and the historical context in which he lived. Interactive displays and multimedia presentations make the experience engaging and educational, appealing to both Vietnamese and international visitors. The museum is straight up trippy. It has a very weird layout, with the interior design all over the place. I'm not sure if it's designed to specifically be, for a lack of a better word, weird, but the end result is that it is very weird. It seems almost masonic with icons that reminded me about things I had read when I was younger about the illuminati - just a very strange place. That being said, the historical artefacts included here are incredibly important given they tell the story of a man who shaped the modern-day country of Vietnam. Nearby is the Presidential Palace which to me, felt like a bit of a waste of time and money - but maybe I was too tired at this point. Built between 1900 and 1906 by the French architect Auguste Henri Vildieu, the palace was originally the residence of the Governor-General of Indochina. The building straight up looks like a European palace placed in Vietnam and in all honesty, there wasn't too much to and see and do in this part of the complex - although I did get to see some nice vintage cars that belonged to Ho Chi Minh, many of which were gifted by foreign governments and leaders. The Imperial Citadel of Thang LongThe Imperial Citadel of Thang Long in Hanoi, also known as the Hanoi Citadel, is one of Vietnam’s most significant historical and cultural sites. Recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2010, the citadel reflects the long history of the Vietnamese state. This ancient site has served as a political and cultural centre for nearly a millennium, playing a pivotal role in the development and evolution of the country. The Imperial Citadel of Thang Long dates back to the 11th century when Emperor Ly Thai To, the founder of the Ly Dynasty, moved the capital from Hoa Lu to Dai La and renamed it Thang Long, which means "Ascending Dragon." This relocation marked the beginning of the citadel's prominence as the political heart of Vietnam. The site was chosen for its strategic location along the Red River, which provided essential advantages in terms of defense and trade. The citadel underwent several phases of construction and expansion over the centuries, particularly under the Ly, Tran, and Le dynasties. Each dynasty left its mark on the citadel, contributing to its architectural and cultural richness. The complex originally covered an area of about 18 hectares, featuring palaces, royal residences, temples, and administrative buildings, all enclosed by massive walls and gates. The grandeur of the citadel was a reflection of the power and prosperity of the Vietnamese empire during its height. One of the most significant structures within the citadel is the Doan Mon Gate, the main entrance to the royal palace during the Ly, Tran, and Le dynasties. This gate, along with other remnants such as the Flag Tower of Hanoi, Kinh Thien Palace, and the Hau Lau (Princess' Palace) are all really important parts of the citadel The Flag Tower, built in 1812 during the Nguyen Dynasty, stands 33.4 meters tall and remains a prominent symbol of Hanoi. The citadel complex now houses several museums and exhibition halls that display the artifacts uncovered during archaeological digs. The displays include ancient ceramics, tools, weapons, and other everyday items used by the inhabitants of the citadel, offering a tangible connection to the past. The grounds of the citadel are huge and great to walk around and explore the different buildings. The citadel's location in the heart of Hanoi makes it easily accessible, and its proximity to other historical sites, such as the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum and the Temple of Literature, makes it a place worth visiting if you're in the neighbourhood. The French QuarterThe French Quarter in Hanoi, known locally as Khu Phố Pháp, wa san area where I spent just a little bit of time last time out. This district, located to the southeast of the Old Quarter, is renowned for its wide, tree-lined boulevards, grand colonial buildings, and elegant public spaces. The French Quarter is the opposite of the narrow streets of the Old Quarter, providing a glimpse into a different era of Hanoi's development. The history of the French Quarter dates back to the late 19th century when Vietnam became part of French Indochina. The French colonial administration sought to transform Hanoi into a modern capital, reflecting European styles and urban planning principles. This led to the construction of numerous administrative buildings, residences, and cultural institutions that emulated the architecture of Paris. One of the most iconic buildings in the French Quarter is the Hanoi Opera House, completed in 1911. Modeled after the Palais Garnier in Paris, the opera house is a stunning example of French neoclassical architecture, featuring ornate facades, grand staircases, and a magnificent auditorium. Another notable landmark is the Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi, a historic hotel that opened in 1901. This luxury hotel has welcomed numerous illustrious guests, including writers, diplomats, and celebrities, and it stands as a testament to the city's colonial heritage. I had a quick walk through the hotel and the interior and grounds are just incredible (and way out my price range). The French Quarter also serves as a vibrant commercial hub, with numerous cafes, restaurants, boutiques, and art galleries lining its streets. I really liked it, especially after spending nearly a week in the Old Quarter, I felt I could just breathe a little better in this area, and the cafes were fantastic. Large parks were also a great way to just relax a little away from the constant horns of the cars and scooters and having to walk through narrow streets for so many days. But the cafes and hotels here are also more expensive, so it's something to bare in mind. Ninh BinhNinh Binh, often called the "Ha Long Bay on land," is a beautiful region on the outskirts of Hanoi. The space I mentioned in the French Quarter is found in bucketloads here and it felt great to be outside the city. Ninh Binh has incredible limestone karst landscapes, rice paddies, and winding rivers. The province's countryside is like from a film, with towering limestone formations rising abruptly from the ground, creating a surreal and almost mystical atmosphere. These karst landscapes, often shrouded in mist are like something you'd read in a sci-fi novel. It took a couple of hours to reach Ninh Binh on a min-bus which took another random stop half way through to try and drum up business for local communities (I mentioned this in Ho Chi Minh too when going to the Tunnels). It's annoying and massively overpriced compared to the exact same things in the city, but it is what it is. I took a day tour, which I would recommend, and while at times it feels rushed, I managed to see pretty much everything that I wanted to see. If I had a few more days, I would definitely spend a few days in Ninh Binh and hire a cycle. Tam Coc, which translates to "Three Caves," is one of Ninh Binh's most renowned attractions. This area is often compared to Ha Long Bay due to its similar topography, but instead of the sea, Tam Coc is surrounded by rice fields and the tranquil Ngo Dong River. I went on a boat ride along the river, passing through three natural caves that have been carved into the limestone over millennia. The boat rides, rowed by local women using their feet, was a wonderful experience. I don't think I have ever seen landscapes more beautiful as I saw here, it felt like I was in the film Avatar, it really felt otherworldly, and that boat ride will remain one of my highlights of the entire country. I did manage to cycle just a short distance through the countryside and I really enjoyed it. The cycling took me to the Hoa Lu District, once the capital of Vietnam in the 10th and 11th centuries. This area is part of the Trang An Landscape Complex, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. In Hoa Lu, I visited the temples dedicated to the Dinh and Le dynasties, which played a crucial role in shaping Vietnam's early history. The Temple of King Dinh Tien Hoang is dedicated to Dinh Bo Linh, the first emperor of Vietnam, who established the Dinh dynasty and unified the country in the 10th century. The temple complex is set against a backdrop of green hills and features beautifully preserved architecture and detailed carvings that reflect the artistry of the period. Nearby, the Temple of King Le Dai Hanh honors the founder of the Le dynasty, who succeeded the Dinh dynasty and continued to strengthen and develop the nation. Both temples offer a fascinating glimpse into Vietnam's feudal past and its early statehood. The final stop was also my favourite - the Mua Caves, or Hang Múa. Located at the foot of Mua Mountain, the caves themselves are not the primary attraction. Instead, it is the panoramic view from the top of the mountain. There are two paths to two different peaks at the top of the mountain and it's not an overly challenging climb, although it is steep in places. It's about 500 steps and the views from the top are just breathtaking seeing the green landscapes as well as the winding river. It was here where I realised that I wanted to spend more time here, so maybe next time. The caves themselves were fine, but at this point I was ready to get back to air conditioning after an incredibly humid day was combined with a long climb up and down the mountain. Would I recommend visiting Hanoi?The city has changed a lot since I last came, and not all of it is good - nor is all of it bad. It's definitely gotten busier and there are a lot more tourists. During the evenings it can be pretty hard to walk through the Old Quarter as crowds of people line the pavements. Some of the old city charm has also made way for modern construction and western chain restaurants. It's also gotten more expensive, although it remains affordable once you arrive (but of course, flights from the UK are not cheap). As a Sikh I had no problems once again. There isn't really a permanent Sikh community here but through the airport and the city no one really batted an eyelid. I felt comfortable and safe the entire time. For me, Hanoi remains one of my favourite cities, and if you have the means and opportunity, I would definitely recommend visiting it. Comments are closed.
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AuthorBritish Sikh, born in the Midlands, based in London, travelling the world seeing new cultures. Categories
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