Solo travel is on the rise, with a significant trend among Vietnamese travelers. According to the latest report from the travel website Booking.com, an impressive 75% of Vietnamese are planning to embark on their journeys alone in 2024.
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| Hanoi University’s breathtaking architecture, Photo: Huy Pham |
In today’s interconnected world, solo travel is more accessible than ever. Rather than being daunting, it presents unique opportunities for personal growth, adventure, and memorable experiences.
Coinciding with Single Day, which falls on November 11, Booking.com offers a curated list of destinations in Vietnam ideal for solo explorers, ranging from seasoned adventurers to those taking their first steps into the world of solo travel.
Hanoi, Vietnam’s capital, stands out as a top choice for solo travelers. As Booking.com suggests, “Hanoi is a paradise for culture seekers.”
Solo adventurers can wander through the bustling streets of the Old Quarter, admire the iconic Hoan Kiem Lake, and discover ancient pagodas and stunning French-colonial architecture. They can relax with a cup of Vietnamese coffee by the lake or join a walking tour to connect with fellow travelers and delve into the city’s rich history and culinary delights.
In celebration of the Hanoi Festival of Creative Design 2024, taking place until November 17, the capital unveils a plethora of exciting destinations. For the first time, iconic French colonial landmarks, including the Tonkin Palace, the Government Guest House, the Opera House, and Hanoi University, open their doors to the public, offering a unique exploration of these historic sites.
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| Explore Hanoi by taking a cyclo ride. Photo: Tra My |
Jonathan Baker, UNESCO’s Chief Representative in Vietnam, encourages visitors to seize this opportunity, stating, “I encourage you to seize this wonderful opportunity to experience Hanoi’s hidden gems in all their glory.”
In addition to the century-old University of Hanoi’s stunning Indochinese architecture, visitors can explore the zoological collection on the second floor, housing hundreds of specimens and skeletons of indigenous wild animals.
The narrow, winding staircase leading to the dome of this historic building is now also accessible, revealing intricate hand-painted details on the roof, crafted over a century ago.
For those eager to delve into the ancient Hanoian lifestyle, the historic house at 87 Ma May Street in Hoan Kiem District is a must-visit. It is one of 14 old houses in Hanoi, built in the late 19th century, that preserves its original charm.
Spanning an area of 157.6 square meters, this house has witnessed multiple owners and families since 1954. Its tubular shape, typical of Hanoi’s old houses, features rooms, mezzanines, and courtyards designed for comfortable living.
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“Stories of Hang Streets,” a live performance at the Ancient House No. 87 Ma May Street in Hanoi’s Old Quarter. Photo: Vietnam Travel. |
Travelers can book a 30-minute “Stories of Hang Streets” live performance tour to immerse themselves in the area’s heritage. This scenic tour transports visitors back to the 1940s and 1950s, showcasing the daily life of a longtime medical family and their interactions within the community.
Hanoi’s street food is a culinary adventure that should not be missed. Exploring new places and discovering exotic dishes is an enriching part of the travel experience.
While Hoan Kiem Lake captivates with its emerald waters, the surrounding streets offer a culinary journey through Hanoi’s diverse and historic cuisine.
Local culinary experts attribute the refined style of Trang An, Hanoi’s historical name, as the defining characteristic of its cuisine. As the city evolved, Hanoi’s culinary landscape also incorporated the essence of various regions, with a unique local twist.
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| Hanoi’s autumn specialties: young sticky rice and egg coffee. Photo: Yeu Hanoi Group |
Hanoi’s street food scene offers a variety of options for breakfast, lunch, and afternoon light meals. Breakfast often includes pho (Vietnamese noodle soup), banh mi (Vietnamese sandwich), banh cuon (steamed rice rolls), or xoi (sticky rice), to name a few.
For lunch, solo diners can explore options like bun cha (grilled pork and noodle), bun rieu (crab soup with noodle), bun oc (snail soup with noodles), or mien luon (crystal vermicelli with eel).
Afternoon snacks delight with treats such as banh gio (Vietnamese pyramid pork dumplings), chicken rice porridge, and sweet desserts.
The Old Quarter of Hanoi also boasts a diverse dining scene for dinner, with options ranging from vegetarian and traditional Vietnamese cuisine to Chinese and international fare.
Other destinations in Vietnam recommended by Booking.com for solo travelers include the imperial citadel of Hue, the ancient town of Hoi An, Ninh Binh in the north, and the southern coastal city of Phan Thiet.
Hanoi’s Creative Design Festival: Unveiling the Capital’s Cultural Renaissance
The 2024 Hanoi Festival of Creative Design, an event centered on the theme of ‘Creative Intersection’, promises to transform the city’s historic heart with a plethora of activities. This celebration of the merging of traditional and innovative art will see over 100 events take place across seven of Hanoi’s most iconic heritage sites.
Dong Thanh Communal House: A Treasured Relic of Hanoi’s Historic Old Quarter
Dong Thanh Communal House, also known as Hang Vai Communal House, is a sacred place of worship dedicated to the revered Saint Huyen Thien Tran Vu. Within its confines lies a centuries-old ancient water well, exquisitely carved and dating back over 200 years. This house of worship, with its rich history and intricate design, stands as a testament to the cultural and spiritual heritage of the community it serves.
“Hanoi, a City Etched in Heart and Soul”: A love letter to Hanoi, as seen through the eyes and lenses of its elderly photographers.
Hanoi, a city of captivating moments, is beautifully portrayed through the lens of these photographers. Their profound love for the city is evident in every image, capturing the very essence of Hanoi’s unique charm.
