five days in hanoi
a journey through culture, chaos, and conscious travel
My desire to travel to Vietnam was born out of my frustration with visiting cities in South Korea that all started to look the same. As beautiful as the country is, after a while, city-hopping can feel mundane. Vietnam was at the top of my list because I imagined it to be rich in culture, and to be honest, it was also one of the more accessible options for my first international trip outside of South Korea.
After much consideration and refreshing flight search pages, I finally settled on a $440 ticket (including return). As expensive as it was, it was the cheapest option available. Before reflecting on my 5 days spent in the intriguing beauty of Hanoi, here are some fun facts about Vietnam:
Visa: South Africans need a visa to visit Vietnam. You can apply online at Vietnam E-Visa Portal. For a step-by-step guide, check out my video
Currency: Vietnamese Dong (VND) — R1 = 1 355, 15 VND
Capital City: Hanoi
Religion: Predominantly Buddhism, particularly Mahayana Buddhism. Other significant religions include Roman Catholicism, Cao Dai, and Hoa Hao, along with Confucian and Taoist influences blended with Buddhist practices.
During my research, I came across Hanoi: a city with bustling streets so inviting that I was certain it would be the perfect base for my five-day "vacation." Thanks to an abundance of TikTok videos detailing things to do, putting together an itinerary was effortless. My goal was simple: to spend each day exploring the vibrant city.
THINGS TO DO IN HANOI, VIETNAM
1. learn about vietnam’s history
Vietnam has a wealth of museums and historical landmarks that provide deep insight into its rich history. One that I highly recommend is the Hoa Lo Prison Relic. This former prison, used by the French colonialists for Vietnamese political prisoners, offers a sobering yet informative experience. Each section of the museum provides detailed accounts of the atrocities endured by prisoners, making it a must-visit for history enthusiasts.
2. visit train street
One of the main reasons I had to visit Hanoi was to see the famous Train Street. It’s a narrow alley where a train passes within an arm's length of onlookers. While it may seem dangerous, the view, especially at night, is mesmerizing. There are plenty of cafés along the track where you can wait for the train while enjoying a drink. Be mindful not to stand on the tracks when the train is approaching!
3. take a day trip to ninh binh
I debated between Halong Bay and Ninh Binh but ultimately chose the latter. Often referred to as “Halong Bay on land,” Ninh Binh boasts stunning mountains, lush green rice fields, and ancient temples. Located about 100 kilometers south of Hanoi, it’s easily accessible by bus, which you can book through your hotel or hostel. I opted for a day tour package that included transportation, food and a guided experience.
4. eat lots of bahn mi
I’m not much of a foodie, and I tend to be picky (basic) when choosing meals, but I was excited to try Vietnam’s famous sandwich, banh mi. This traditional baguette sandwich is filled with your choice of protein, fresh vegetables, and flavorful sauces. Banh mi vendors are everywhere in Hanoi, so you can try different variations. My personal favorite? Banh Mi Mama, highly recommended!
5. visit st. joseph’s cathedral
While primarily a great photo spot, St. Joseph’s Cathedral is the oldest church in Vietnam. Located in the heart of Hanoi, it’s surrounded by charming cafés, some offering scenic views of the bustling streets. If you’re short on time, you can skip this stop, but it’s a nice place to relax if you have extra time in your itinerary.
6. drink some egg coffee (at the note cafe)
This unique café is filled with handwritten notes from visitors worldwide, capturing memories in simple phrases and quotes. Every guest is encouraged to leave a note, contributing to the collective experience. I opted for an egg hot chocolate instead of the famous egg coffee since it was too late for caffeine. Beyond its sentimental charm, The Note Café serves some of the best coffee in Hanoi. Spread over three levels, the upper floors offer a scenic view of the lake, a perfect spot for people-watching.
7. join a pub crawl
Pub crawls are a staple of backpacking in Southeast Asia and an experience you don’t want to miss. As a solo traveler, it’s one of the best ways to meet new people, socialize, and explore the local nightlife while hopping from bar to bar. Whether you're traveling alone or in a group, it's a fun and laid-back way to connect with like-minded travelers who enjoy a good night out. If you're up for a lively evening, a ub crawl in Hanoi is definitely worth adding to your itinerary!
ACOMMODATION RECOMENDATION
Booking accommodation is one of my top priorities when planning a trip. Since I was on a tight budget and would be out exploring most of the day, I wasn’t willing to spend much on a place to stay.
The first three days of my trip were spent at an Airbnb that, unfortunately, did not meet expectations. Hanoi is experiencing lots of changes, resulting in constant construction and development. My Airbnb was right in the middle of this chaos.
I then moved to my second accomodation for (R250) per night, and it exceeded my expectations. Hotels and hostels are popular among young tourists in Vietnam. If you’re traveling on a budget, you can find great deals on Agoda.com and HostelWorld.
FINAL REFLECTIONS
Vietnam is one of the most chaotic yet lively countries I’ve ever visited. Hanoi, in particular, is a city in flux: caught between over tourism and rapid gentrification. Walking through the streets of the Old Quarter, I found myself reflecting on how I could contribute to tourism in a sustainable and ethical way.
Luxury hotels and boutique shops stand alongside homes where residents live below the poverty line. Seeing this stark contrast in real time was eye-opening. As someone from a developing country that is also grappling with the effects of gentrification and digital nomadism (looking at you, Cape Town), I understand the responsibility I carry to be a more conscious traveler.
The irony of promoting my trip isn’t lost on me, but the reality is that people will continue to visit Vietnam whether or not they read this blog. Nonetheless, when you do visit, respect the locals, be mindful of your impact, and spend your money locally.
Have a fantastic trip to Vietnam. I know I’ll be returning soon!
Great article! I really enjoyed reading it