Visiting Vietnam: Hanoi

We recently took a few days off from work and spent a long weekend in Vietnam.  We flew into Hanoi and spent the first day wandering the streets and trying to not get hit by motorbikes.  Lane lines, stop lights, and road signs are merely just suggestions in Vietnam so it was a bit stressful getting around.  Because they do not stop for stoplights, it is hard to get an opening so you just step into the road and slowly walk as motorbikes dart around you.  Thankfully no injuries were suffered crossing any streets although I did get a small tap by one motorbike.  We ate Mexican (not very good), visited the lake, enjoyed pho, and rooftop drinks.  It was an interesting first day.

One of the only peaceful places in the city

Tree growing between two buildings

Just a few of the motorbikes.  Talking and riding?  Just glad he didn't hit me.

Vietnamese street food.  Everyone sits at these tiny tables and eat. 

Vietnam

Rooftop drinks.  Notice the haze in the distance.  The haze/fog/smog stayed the whole weekend.

We spent the next two days cruising at Halong Bay but returned to Hanoi for one more night.  We ate a nice dinner and explored the night market where we got our pockets checked for valuables.  Fortunately we were aware of sticky fingers and kept things where they could not be easily taken.

Our last day in Hanoi we went to the Temple of Literature which is a temple of Confucius and once served as a learning center.  

Entrance to the Temple grounds

Inside one of the many courtyards

Stelae of Doctors (monuments to former scholars)

Bonsai trees 

Students lined up to get their names and good luck symbols drawn on the red scrolls. 

Altars to Confucius and his disciples

Altars for three of the monarchs who helped in founding the temple

The Bell House

Vietnam was quite an experience.  The people were kind, the food was great, but the streets are dirty.  The air quality is questionable as is personal safety.  Despite this, I have to say the cruise to Halong Bay made the whole trip worth it.  I think we will return to Vietnam at some point to visit Sapa and/or Ho Chi Minh City.