Hanoi

Spent 4 whole days in Hanoi browsing through the varied shops along the narrow streets, braving motorcycles and fellow tourists. However, did manage to 'squeeze' in one morning of sightseeing - went to the HCM Museum and Residence. Unfortunately, his mausoluem was closed as his body has been sent to Russia for its annual 'maintenance'.

The weather was just nice this time of the year, sunny (but not hot) in the daytime and cooling during the night. Its strategic location around the Hoan Kiem Lake was also an additional appeal, and it was immensely enjoyable having coffee and even breakfast next to the lake.

There were lots of shops selling homewares, lacquerware, bags and shoes galore, etc and we spent many hours just browsing from one shop to another. The locals were overall friendly, and it is very normal for them to offer you a chair/stool to sit whilst you slowly browse through their products and negotiate the prices with them. We were even offered tea in one stall!

Another highlight of the trip was the trishaw ride - which seems to be a 'must' in most tour groups' itinerary. So...when in Rome...(in this case Hanoi), we also joined in the experience. Although the price was rather steep by Hanoians standard, it was a most pleasant experience and left me with free hands and eyes to take lots of pictures of the streets.