23 – 24/ 12/ 2024 – Day 1: Arrival in Hanoi – The Chaos, The Charm, and The Old Quarter
A Midnight Flight to Adventure
The journey began on the 23rd of December, 2024, with a late-night flight from Kolkata to Hanoi on Indigo Airlines. While the flight was uneventful, what awaited us in Hanoi was a whirlwind introduction to the chaotic charm of Vietnam. Landing in the early hours of Christmas Eve, we found ourselves amidst a sea of travelers navigating an immigration process that can only be described as an exercise in patience.
With multiple lines and little clarity on which one to join, it took over two and a half hours to clear immigration. Despite the counters working swiftly, the sheer volume of midnight arrivals at Noi Bai International Airport turned the process into a long, chaotic ordeal. Exhausted but relieved, we emerged into the arrivals hall—only to realize our driver, arranged by the travel agent, was nowhere to be found.
Navigating Challenges: A Lesson in Adaptability
Panic set in briefly as I realized I didn’t have any Vietnamese Dong on hand, nor did I carry Australian or US dollars to exchange. A frustrating search through ATMs ensued, with most machines out of cash. Fortunately, persistence paid off, and I managed to withdraw enough Dong. Meanwhile, my son downloaded the Grab app, a local ride-hailing service, and we secured a driver to take us to our hotel.
Our destination, May Deville, was nestled in the heart of Hanoi’s Old Quarter. However, an unexpected twist awaited us when we arrived at the wrong hotel with the same name. After some confusion and laughter, we finally reached the correct location, settling into bed around 5:00 AM, utterly drained yet excited for the days ahead.
Exploring the Old Quarter: A Feast for the Senses
The morning was a blur of much-needed sleep, punctuated by a sumptuous breakfast at the hotel. By early afternoon, we ventured into the vibrant streets of Hanoi’s Old Quarter. This historic neighborhood is a fascinating labyrinth of narrow alleys, bustling markets, and colonial-era architecture. Vendors lined the streets, selling everything from fresh produce to fake designer goods, creating a sensory overload of sights, sounds, and smells.
For lunch, we sampled our first banh mi, a quintessential Vietnamese baguette sandwich bursting with fresh flavors. The crispy bread, savory fillings, and herbs perfectly encapsulated the culinary delight of Vietnam. With recharged energy, we wandered further, immersing ourselves in the Old Quarter’s eclectic charm.
A Blend of Tradition and Modernity
Hanoi’s Old Quarter isn’t just a marketplace—it’s a living museum. Each street, traditionally named after the craft or trade it once represented, is a nod to the city’s rich history. From Hang Bac (Silver Street) to Hang Gai (Silk Street), every corner tells a story of a bygone era.
We strolled around Hoan Kiem Lake, a serene oasis amidst the urban chaos. The lake’s name, meaning “Lake of the Restored Sword,” stems from a 15th-century legend involving Emperor Le Loi and a magical sword returned to the Golden Turtle God. As the sun dipped low, the lake’s reflection mirrored the city’s lights, creating a tranquil yet vibrant atmosphere.
A Moment of Indulgence
My wife and daughter indulged in a pampering session at a nail salon, while I experienced my first full-body massage. Typically hesitant about such indulgences, I decided to embrace the new experience, emerging relaxed and rejuvenated. This, I realized, was part of the magic of travel: stepping out of one’s comfort zone.
Meeting the Travel Agent
Later in the evening, we met our travel agent, who apologized profusely for the mix-up with the driver. It turned out to be a simple case of miscommunication about the date. We chose to let it go, preferring to focus on the excitement of the journey ahead.
The Water Puppet Theatre: A Missed Opportunity
Though we didn’t attend the famous Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre show on day 1, the venue itself deserves mention. This traditional Vietnamese art form, dating back to the 11th century, uses wooden puppets and water as a stage to depict folk tales and historical legends. The theatre, located near Hoan Kiem Lake, is a must-visit for anyone seeking to delve deeper into Vietnam’s cultural heritage.
Reflections on Day One
Our first day in Vietnam was a blend of chaos and wonder, mishaps and discoveries. Despite the rocky start, the vibrant energy of Hanoi’s Old Quarter and its rich tapestry of history and culture left an indelible impression. As we drifted to sleep that night, the promise of new adventures beckoned, filling us with anticipation for what lay ahead.
Day 1: Arrival in Hanoi – The Chaos, The Charm, and The Old Quarter | Day 2: Immersing in Hanoi’s History, Culture, and Culinary Delights | Day 3: A Journey Through Ancient Vietnam and Cultural Wonders | Day 4: Cruising Through the Wonders of Ha Long Bay | Day 5: From Ha Long Bay to Da Nang – Adventures Above and Below | Day 6: A Day of Misty Hills and Evening Elegance in Da Nang | Day 7: A Day of Serenity and Lanterns in Hoi An | Day 8: Exploring the Cu Chi Tunnels and Welcoming 2025 | Day 9: A Journey Through the Mekong Delta | Day 10: From the Horrors of War to the Charm of Cambodia | Day 11: The Majestic Temples of Angkor | Day 12: Bangkok’s Revered Temples and Evening Splendor | Day 13: Exploring Ayutthaya’s Historical Treasures | Day 14: The Final Day in Bangkok
Leave a reply