 butchroa - 4/25/2008 9:42:32 PM
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| Right on! Indeed, Ha Noi is such a beautiful city. Coincidentally, started living in Ha Noi in 1992 and my 1st hotel was also Thang Loi, w/c i must say was a really good representation of Viet Nam then- rudimentary facilities, friendly staff and great food.
Your story does cover many of Ha Noi's beauties. You may have missed the food, w/c i consider unique to Ha Noi. Cha ca la vong (fish served for the royalty), tit be(young cow), bun cha(grilled pork w/ fresh white noodles) and of course, the street pho is the best at then 5000dong!
Agree w/ you that October, or autumn is the best time to visit Ha Noi. Cool temps, blue skies and romantic autumn poetry.
Yes, the water puppets is a must!
Ended my Viet Nam stint in 1999 but since 2005, have been traveling to Sai Gon for Vietnam business consultancy. Still have to re-visit Ha Noi...my own "i left my heart in Ha Noi."
Tell people who travel to Viet Nam that Ha Noi is a must if they want to know Viet Nam. Would say "Ha Noi is Vietnam; Viet Nam is Ha Noi." Tree-lined avenues, French colonial buildings and 7 lakes w/in the city.
Miss Ha Noi and hope to visit this year. |
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butch roa - 4/29/2008 6:56:07 AM
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| A very thorough picture of Ha Noi. Congrats.
You may have missed the food unique to Ha Noi- cha ca la vong(fish for royalty), tit be chanh(meat of calf w/ lemon flavor), oc(best escargot: chopped w/ ginger), and of course, street pho, a steal at Dong5000 per bowl, available 24/7.
Yes, October is best time to visit- cool weather and blue skies.
Coincidentally, my first hotel in 1992 Ha Noi was also Thang Loi- by the lake, friendly staff, great food and local music. |
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butchroa - 5/2/2008 8:31:38 AM
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| Sorry about the double post.
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