When you visit Hanoi everyones says visit Uncle Ho, see the Temple of Literature or wlk around Hoan Kiem 3 times!
Well there's more to Hanoi and here's 3 idea's for you to try!
Thuoc Lao
Basically these look like your traditional Bong. However local guys smoke them reguraly with tabacco (only) through out the day especially when hanging out with mates at a local tea stall on the street.
The tabacoo is rough, the smell not so good and but definately worth a go! Make sure you have a cup of tea at the ready!
Thuoc Lao's can be found on many street corners around Hanoi.
Karaoke
The first thing that must be established here, is I total and utterly dislike Karaoke! But when your with friends and the night is wearing on, it can be a laugh!!
English song choices can be limited to such hits as "Hello", "Dancing Queen" or perhaps you could try some other wonderful tried and tested love hit from the 60's!
The rooms are generally sound proof and come with old, crusty "leather" sofa's. Most places charge around 60,000vnd per hour and drinks are available.
Beer is highly recommended!
(Note - Some Karaoke Bars are not good places to hang out, ask your hotel staff or a trusted local for advice if unsure!)
Cross The Bridge
Hanoi is located near the banks of the Red River, and while many travelers explore the Old Quarter, French Quarter or even the West Lake area, very few venture arcoss the River!
Do yourself a favor and hire a bicyle and make the journey arcoss Long Bien Bridge to Gia Liam District. Once over you will see parts of Hanoi that are rarely visited by westeners.
Immediately over the bridge is a small park and market, when you came to the first intersection, go right to follow the river. You can actually ride right around to Thanh Long Bridge (the massive bridge coming in from the airport), this ride will take several hours.
Go left and you'll end up back in the thick of things near main highway heading to the North of Vietnam.
Always remember, the locals in Hanoi are great people, so don't be scared to turn down a lane way or off getting lost! Just make sure you have a hotel business card so you can get home!