Chasing Lanterns & Street Food: 3 Days in Hanoi, Vietnam

Northern Vietnam’s capital isn’t just a city—it’s a collision of chaos and calm, where honking scooters blur past peaceful lakes and temple bells. In 72 hours, we dove headfirst into bustling markets, ancient alleys, and bowls of broth that changed our life.

📝 Highlights:

• Day 1:

  • Arrive and check into a boutique stay in the Old Quarter.

  • First walk: Hoan Kiem Lake + Ngoc Son Temple.

  • Dinner: Bun Cha at a street-side stall.

• Day 2:

  • Cafe-hopping for Vietnamese egg coffee ☕

  • Visit the Temple of Literature and Train Street.

  • End with a rooftop drink at sunset.

• Day 3:

  • Explore the Hanoi Night Market.

  • Grab souvenirs, lanterns, and photos of the chaos.

💬 Real Talk:

Jake’s favorite moment? Watching Mel dodge scooters like a pro. Mel’s favorite? Slurping soup in plastic chairs while giggling at how loud the city was. We loved every second.

📸 Tip:

Golden hour at Hoan Kiem Lake = guaranteed magical photos.

Now onto the next adventure — a journey through the jungle, floating in silence...