I have spent the last little bit in Vietnam and I love love love it!!!! I had heard some horror stories about being ripped off and taken advantage of but so far these have all just been stories of past travellers... no personal experiences.. yes!
My first stop in Vietnam was the capital, Hanoi. Under French rule, the French colonial architecture style became dominant and remains in Hanoi today with the tree-lined boulevards and its many villas and mansions, Grand Opera House, Saint Joseph Cathedral, and the historic Hotel Metropole.
Me and my Cambodian room mates were reunited which was AMAZING!!! It was so great to see them after being apart for 3 weeks. Its amazing how close you become to people you are travelling with.
Hoan Kiem Lake (meaning "Lake of the Returned Sword") is located in the historical center of Hanoi. The lake is one of the major scenic spots in the city and serves as a focal point for its public life. According to the legend, emperor Lê Lợi gave a magic sword called "Heaven's Will" which brought him victory in his revolt against the Chinese Ming Dynasty back to the Golden Turtle God (Kim Qui) in the lake. There is a Turtle Tower (Thap Rùa) standing on a small island near the centre of lake is linked to the legend. Along the side of Hoan Kiem Lake, there is a huge globe with an abnormally large Vietnam on it.
Hanoi was selected as one of the top 10 cities for food in the world and Vietnam's national dish Phở has been named one of the top 5 streetfoods in the world. I agree with both of these!!!
View of the streets of Hanoi along the Hoan Kiem Lake*
While in Hanoi, we also made a little visit to snake village. We got to play with some smaller-ish snakes, watch a cobra and Vietnamese man battle it out a bit, and then of course try some snake. It was delicious! We ate the meat, skin, bile, and a bit of the blood. Some people even tried the heart but Im not that brave. When in Vietnam, act as the Vietnamese do!
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