Hanoi, Vietnam’s capital city, became my jumping off point for different areas of northern Vietnam.  I stayed there a total of four nights in three different hostels.  It was my hub for Halong Bay, Sapa, and back through to fly to Da Nang.

I did not do anything touristy in Hanoi except a free walking tour offered by my hostel (Vietnam Backpacker Hostel – The Original).  Otherwise, I killed time there by roaming the streets, chilling in hostel lobbies, eating, and hanging out with people.  Oh, and two nights of partying, almost forgot about that.

I know very little about Hanoi, except that it is Vietnam’s cultural center, it has a very lovely Old Quarter with beautiful, historic buildings, lanterns, and twinkling lights (if you’re lucky enough to see them lit), it is well-manicured with trees and flowers, the nightlife rages every night, and the traffic is nutty.  I really liked it.  Next time I go, I promise myself that I will explore more than just the Old Quarter.