Hanoi
After settling into the Classic Hotel in the Old Quarter we took a walk and tried to work out just where we were...
Not so easy but the first night we did manage to find a little local restaurant that served (of all things) toasted sandwiches. Just what we felt like after a
long trip back from Halong Bay so an early night was in order. The next day we visited Sword Lake, Temple of Literature, One Pillar Pagoda and the Quan Thanh temple by the West Lake.
After a fantastic lunch at a buffet restaurant where you could select your own food and relax in the
very welcome air-conditioning we set off to visit the Ethnology Museum. What a grand place to visit - the culture and traditions were most evident here, very old but some new ideas as well. Examples
of survival in the very early days, clothing, weapons, food gathering and in general family life. There were lots of exhibits and all were very descriptive of times gone by and the hardships people faced.
Many young people come here to have their wedding photos taken as well and we were lucky to come across a couple. The outside of the complex
was just as interesting
as the main building as there were homes of various types on display. The whole day was topped off with a visit to see the water puppet show. The presentation is most entertaining and the accompanying band
very musical! Great night once again.
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The next morning we decided to explore the area around the Lake and found all the local people most friendly. Some were resting on the park benches, some exercising and many just catching up with friends.
The atmosphere was amazing peaceful and we called into a large supermarket and then continued on around the rest of the lake.
After some shopping we then returned to our hotel area which fortunately for us contained Pub Corner. This is only metres from
our hotel and has a small beer shop at each corner - hence the name. You get to sit on a small plastic chair and watch the world go by. Many people come here specially for the beer in the afternoon and
catch up with gossip both local and from countries all over the world. Great place!!
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We spent another couple of wonderful days here in Hanoi - shopping, looking and just generally recharging our batteries before we left for Hoi An. Another destination to look forward to on this
fabulous holiday!
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