Hanoi's Many Faces: A Foreigner's View

"Resting on the banks of the Red River, Hanoi is a dream, a thrill, an intoxication, a 'parenthesis'... one that I yearn to be lost within," remarked journalist Alain Gérard, Editor-in-Chief of Latitudes, Belgium, reflecting on his three business trips to Hanoi. For those who venture to this venerable city, Hanoi presents a wonderland of culture, cuisine, and adventure.

October 31, 2024 | 16:04

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Satisfying the adventurous soul

During his third visit to Hanoi, immediately following the aftermath of storm No. 3, Alain Gérard, the Editor-in-Chief of Latitudes from the Kingdom of Belgium, encountered many unforgettable experiences and insights. As he strolled through the capital's streets, observing the downed trees, he felt compelled to engage, leading him to compile a photographic report promptly.

Journalist Alain Gérard shares at the training course to improve skills in producing multimedia information products in Vietnam in September 2024.

Encountering Hanoi with a changed visage after the ravages of storm number 3, one might expect to sense a pall of sorrow over the city. Yet, it was not despair but the "green shoots" of life's resurgence that were palpably felt.

Hanoi through the "lens" of foreigners

"In the photo report, I aim to convey my emotions upon witnessing the massive storm sweep through, leaving dire repercussions for the city, alongside the swift and constructive response of Hanoi's residents. Individuals of all ages united to clear away debris and restore the damaged yet surviving trees throughout the night. The scene was so enchanting; it seemed as though the storm had never traversed this area. The city's resilience and the people's spirit here are unforgettable," Alain Gérard recounted.

Over three weeks, with a desire to "leave footprints on the streets of Hanoi," journalist Alain Gérard set out to explore the old quarter, jogged around Hoan Kiem Lake, strolled through the cathedral area, captured moments in the communal spaces along the Red River, and settled into a tranquil cafe within an old French villa to enjoy a cup of coffee. Unknowingly, he had woven himself into the fabric of Hanoi's daily life.

International tourists experience the 2024 Ao Dai Tourism Festival.

"I enjoy wandering the streets, absorbing the sounds of traffic, and the distinct street aromas. I also love exploring by motorbike and capturing photos. Since I work during the day, my city explorations happen at night... the views transform into a painting, evoking unique emotions," Alain Gérard shared.

In July 2024, a Tin Tuc newspaper reporter spoke with Agustin, a Spanish tourist who, after returning to Hanoi for travel nine years later, professed his love for the city and his intention to reside there permanently. By a stroke of luck, the same reporter encountered him again in October 2024. With his simple charm and friendly demeanor, Agustin had settled in Hanoi. He proudly shared details of his modest apartment on Xuan Dieu Street in Tay Ho District, boasting of its reasonable rent and the tranquil ambiance that convinced him to make Vietnam his home following his visit in July.

Agustin, a Spanish tourist, rested by Hoan Kiem Lake after an afternoon of searching for books written in Spanish and French at the National Library of Vietnam.

In the song "Hanoi and I" (composed by musician Le Vinh), there is the line "Small alleys, small streets, my house is there...", it would be a mistake to miss the small, winding streets; the narrow, deep alleys... when exploring Hanoi, looking for its unique features, Agustin, a Spanish tourist shared.

"The more I explore, the more I love Hanoi... Many small and beautiful alleys, I was surprised and excited when I got lost alone in the narrow, deep alleys as if immersing myself in an expedition, whose treasures are unexpected small eateries, peaceful moments, nostalgia for the slow, leisurely pace of life, contrasting with the bustling atmosphere and modern life outside. I have been to many cities, many countries in the world, but I chose Hanoi, Vietnam, right now I feel happy...", Agustin confided.

Cho Hyun Dong (25 years old, Korean) shares his experience eating bread, spring rolls... in Hanoi.

Cho Hyun Dong, a 25-year-old Korean, is learning Vietnamese in Vietnam. He finds that life in Hanoi offers not just relaxation and peace, but also alleviates stress and pressure. In his leisure time, he frequents the gym to enhance his health and enjoys discovering Hanoi's restaurants and cafes.

"For me, living in Hanoi is quite affordable and convenient. I can easily explore the city, immerse myself in the culture, and savor the cuisine. The flavor of bun cha is truly remarkable; I find the dipping sauce irresistible with its perfect balance of salty and sweet, enhanced by the tang of lemon and the heat of chili and pepper, not to mention the array of fresh vegetables that add to the complexity... I particularly enjoy visiting Hanoi's cafes, each one boasting a drink shop with a diverse selection of beverages and unique decorative styles... I believe even a year spent in Hanoi wouldn't be enough to discover all the cafes," expressed Cho Hyun Dong with enthusiasm.

Traffic is “a bit adventurous”

Many foreigners are often taken aback by Hanoi's "unusual" traffic "rules" when they visit for the first time. Crossing the street can seem like a thrilling game, particularly during rush hour when chaos reigns; taking a "xe om" is akin to "navigating rapids on a swift river." Nonetheless, numerous foreigners view this as a distinctive, adventurous, and fascinating aspect of their experience.

“There is always room for pedestrians… At first I felt scared, an ‘impossible’ task, but then I understood that, just blending in, ‘leaving behind’ the traffic in front or behind, I can still cross the street safely, without any incidents…”, said Alain Gérard.

Liliana, an Argentine tourist, was "satisfied" when she took many beautiful photos after a day of exploring Hanoi.

"I was initially frightened to cross the street, but after nearly a day of wandering and taking photos, I mastered the art of crossing streets in Hanoi. 'When in Rome, do as the Romans do'—everything turns out to be quite simple; nothing is too difficult," Liliana, an Argentine tourist, recounted.

Melissa Bailey, an Australian tourist, explored Hanoi for 3 days with her husband.

Concluding her journey through Asian nations, Australian traveler Melissa Bailey was thrilled with her visit to Vietnam. She expressed, "The locals are welcoming, the cuisine is fantastic, and I found navigation quite straightforward. Even with the bustling traffic, my stroll around Hoan Kiem Lake felt secure, surrounded by ample greenery and a congenial atmosphere."

Raphaelle Michon, a French tourist, excitedly explored Hanoi with her best friend.

During a four-day exploration of Hanoi with her friend, French tourist Raphaelle Michon shared: "Walking around Hoan Kiem Lake was exhilarating, observing the bustling crowd. The architecture here is also quite appealing. The traffic seems manageable, which is good. However, I haven't ventured to ride a motorbike on the streets as I'm not familiar with the routes and fear getting lost."

“Feels like coming home”

After three times coming to Hanoi, the first time in 2019, the second time in 2023 and this time: “Hanoi brings a strangely familiar feeling, I feel like I am at home, in my city - Brussels (Kingdom of Belgium). I can comfortably walk, stroll, without fear of getting lost, because there are streets and places that have become familiar, deeply engraved in my mind…”- Journalist Alain Gérard shared.

Foreign tourists experience portrait sketching on Hoan Kiem walking street on weekends.

Journalist Alain Gérard cherished his strolls around Hoan Kiem Lake, a beloved spot where he occasionally lost his way only to rediscover familiar sights. He shared, "On evenings after work, I roamed the streets, often wandering late into the night. I encountered cleaners laboring tirelessly, sweeping the city so that by morning it would be pristine and beautiful once more. Witnessing these workers diligently cleaning the streets at night, especially after storm No. 3, left a lasting impression on me with their ceaseless efforts... These were the simplest, yet most endearing scenes."

The bus pass helps Agustin explore every street in Hanoi.

Vietnamese dishes leave many unforgettable impressions in the hearts of Spanish guests.

Over his three-month stay in Hanoi, Agustin, a tourist from Spain, devoted much of his time to reading in libraries, meandering through narrow alleys, and sampling exquisite local cuisine. He shared his culinary favorites with journalists, listing grilled spring rolls, fried dumplings, crab spring rolls, and vegetable-rich spring rolls among them. To navigate Hanoi more conveniently, he inquired about purchasing bus tickets for seniors and picked up essential Vietnamese phrases to request directions. Now retired, he resides contentedly in a leased apartment in Hanoi, which he regards as his second home. "Donning a bus card and anticipating each journey, I feel like a genuine Vietnamese," Agustin expressed.

American tourist Andrea "fell in love" with Hanoi after 3-4 days of experience.

Despite having only 3-4 days to explore Hanoi, American tourist Andrea found himself captivated by the city. During an interview, he lavished it with high praise: "The people are wonderful, there's a plethora of drinks, and the food is delicious. I wandered around inquiring about Hanoi's signature dishes and purchased Dong Ho paintings as souvenirs for my family... Even with the language barrier, I managed to communicate using gestures and phone apps... Everyone was so helpful, and it made me feel welcomed, just like among friends back home... I cherished every moment spent here..."

To foreigners, Hanoi presents a variety of appearances and emotions. Nonetheless, the affection and novel experiences that the city offers to visitors are unmistakable, whether in Hanoi specifically or Vietnam as a whole.

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