"Tasty and cheesy Hanoi" a Hanoi Travel Page by hientonkin

Tasty: For those who enjoy the goods and bads of Hanoi. You are in Asia!!!
Cheesy: For those who feel afraid of traffic, annoyed by the crowd, and so many other things of Vietnamese in general.

1000 birthday will be held in in 2010. Very soon!

Different with Saigon, Hanoi is less developed, modest and charming place.
The main part of Hanoi is the Old Quater - with the history that spans 2000 years and represents the eternal soul of the city.

Located between Hoan Kiem lake, Long Bien bridge,a former city rampart, and a citadel wall, the Old Quater was originally a snake-infested swamp. It evolved into a cluster of stilt-house villages, and was unifired by Chinese administrators who buildt ramparts around their headquaters.

This old section of Hanoi is often known as the " 36 Old streets" altought there are actually more than 36. The street names often begin with " Hang" - which means merchandise or shop.

The guilds streeet were named for their product or location. For example, Hang Bac : silversmith, Hang Quat give you a close look at the brilliantly coloured funeral and festival flags, religious objects and clothing. Hang Ma glimmers with shiny paper products, such as gift-wrapping, wedding decorations and miniature votive paper items burnt for the dead. Lan Ong street is a sensual delight of textures and smella emanating from the sacks of herbal medicines - leaves, roots, bark and powder.

Personal idea & my fav. phrase:
" Hanoi rain - is similar to its females - smouldering and persistent.
While Saigon rain - like its females - attractive but soon over".

No offense to Saigonners!!!!

Early Nov 2008, 3 day rain non stop made Hanoi's drain system stopped working. Below is the photo in one of the busiest business street in Hanoi.