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Whether you’re working from home, sheltering in place or just staying home, if you’re like us, you’re probably dreaming of open skies, sandy beaches, tall mountains, or perfect powdery slopes. Our travel plans may be on hold, but that doesn’t mean we can’t dream up where we’ll go next.
Welcome to virtual vacation video series where we can explore destinations from the comfort of our homes.
Join us as we take a short virtual journey to Hanoi, Vietnam’s capital.
The great thing about this destination is that it is easily accessible from anywhere in the Pacific theater and as the capital city, many of Hanoi’s attractions are within walking distance. Enjoy its Western and Eastern influences around every corner. Hanoi is a great place for a quick getaway.
Some of the must-see spots in Hanoi include:
Hanoi Cathedral and Opera House –As Vietnam was placed under French occupation for 80 years, there are many beautiful French-colonial buildings here. Among them, Hanoi Cathedral is one of the largest of these buildings and has a neo-gothic dome, two tall steeples similar to Paris’ Notre Dame. The Opera House is modeled after the Opera Garnier in Paris. The stage is surrounded by three-story marble balconies with private box seats, large bronze and crystal chandeliers and waiting rooms with Victorian-style furniture.
Hoan Kiem Lake – This one of the most photogenic locations in the city, and the famous Tortoise Tower on the lake’s tiny island is often considered a symbol of the city.
Van Mieu – This is the oldest university of the nation and is known as the Temple of Literature. Originally founded in 1070 to commemorate achievements of scholars and writers, this temple became the nation’s first university six years later. Here you’ll find statues of Confucius and Laozi and a courtyard featuring numerous stone tablets with names of graduates from past centuries.
While in Hanoi, don't forget to sample a bowl of pho, one of Vietnamese cuisine’s favorite noodle soup dishes made with chicken broth, rice noodles, fragrant herbs and meat.
I hope you enjoyed a look at Hanoi through my travel photos and that perhaps it's inspired your next trip. Stay safe and get ready to travel with us in our next video. Thanks for watching!
