Hanoi and Halong Bay, Vietnam

Visiting Period

Wet season, 12-14 September 2010 (rainy interval)

I was attending my ex-colleagues' wedding in Singapore. And I thought it would be great for a short getaway to one of the neighboring countries. Well, I'd pass Malaysia and Thailand, as I've been there a few times. So, I chose Vietnam, as there are budget flights flying directly from Singapore to Ho Chi Minh/Hanoi. I flied to Hanoi by Tiger Airways, and it cost me SGD300 for a return trip.

It was the end of the wet season (May-October), but a downpour or two were still expected. The good thing was the rain wouldn't last for long, at most for an hour or so.

Hanoi was celebrating her 1000th birthday in October, so there were decorations here and there. The one that impressed me the most is the looooong mosaic mural on my way to the airport. As a matter of fact, it was the LONGEST in the WORLD!!!

I stayed at the Old Quarter near Hoan Kim lake, which is a famous tourist destination. There're lots of attractions that can be visited on foot, so just pick up a local map from your hotel and explore. I love Vietnamese food, there's no such thing as awful food for my entire stay in Hanoi. My favorite is Blue Butterfly restaurant at 61 Hang Buom. 

Blue Butterfly Restaurant

You should try the food sold by the street peddlers also, the smell was so mouth-watering! I didn't dare to try, coz I have a weak stomach.. just in case..

Local food peddlers

Remember to visit the Dong Xuan market. There are lots of "branded" stuffs with awesome quality and price *grin* 

Bargaining for The North Face backpacks at Dong Xuan market

And of course the night market is something not to be missed also, foods and goodies with incredible bargain.

Night market in front of Dong Xuan (day) market

BUT do remember to apply BUG REPELLENT!!! feisty mozzies everywhere!!!

MOZZIES!!!

To save time, I signed up for a half day city tour to explore further from the Old Quarter for USD22. The main highlight for me was the Temple of Literature. Love the turtle steles! Each of them have different expressions.. some have curly hair.. some even have eye-brows!!!

Turtle Steles at Temple of Literature

The under renovation One Pillar Pagoda :(

Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum

Joss-stick at Tranquoc Temple

To visit Halong bay, I signed up a day tour for USD30. It's the most effective way I think, as I don't speak Vietnamese (to avoid being conned) and it was a long 7 hour return trip! My guide, Dat, speaks fluent English and was very friendly and informative. I had my lunch on board the boat. It was not a sumptuous meal, but was a filling and descent one :)

Halong bay cruising boat

Floating village at Halong bay

Hang Dau Go cave

Hang Dau Go cave

View from Hang Dau Go cave entrance/exit

Kayaking was part of the tour, but I didn't join for I didn't want to risk my DSLR plunging into the water juuuust in case I capsized :p Next trip, I should grab my hubby to come along, so that he can be my mobile locker!!!

Kayaking at Halong bay

Transportation

On foot and Tour mini van


Accommodation

Rising Dragon Hotel

There are 2 Rising Dragon hotels, rating 2 stars and 3 stars respectively. I stayed at the 2 star one with half the price of the 3 star's. The room was clean and tidy. A bit noisy from the street in front, but I didn't mind because most of the time I was not in. It's quiet at night anyway :) The breakfast was good. Love the French bread!

Useful Links

Lonely Planet
Asiarooms