Hanoi, the capital of Viet Nam, has been named one of the top ten destinations in the world for solo travelers by the prestigious British newspaper, The Telegraph. The city was praised for its "affordability and hospitality". Hanoi is also the only city in Southeast Asia to make the list.
In its review, The Telegraph highlighted the ease of access to the Internet and communications in Hanoi, noting the widespread availability of Wi-Fi and the ease of obtaining prepaid SIM cards. The newspaper also praised the city's diverse and affordable dining options. The welcoming atmosphere and the local custom of dining alone in restaurants or cafes make Hanoi a comfortable destination for solo travelers.
Hanoi Safety Guide for Solo Travelers
While Hanoi is generally a safe city to visit, travelers are advised to be aware of petty crime. In addition to being on the lookout for pickpockets, tourists are encouraged to use reputable online transportation services and verify the identity of the driver before beginning their journey. Tourists should also consider the risks associated with using motorcycles or scooters, as not all travel insurance policies cover these activities.
The newspaper also advised female travelers planning to visit Hanoi to remain vigilant and take necessary precautions, such as dressing modestly (especially when visiting temples and other places of worship) and avoiding drinks of unknown origin.
In The Telegraph's list of top destinations for solo travelers, Hanoi ranks alongside cities such as Stockholm, Mendoza, Oman, Honshu, Portugal, and New Zealand. On the other hand, the newspaper advised travelers to avoid certain destinations, including Egypt, India, Morocco, Porto and Ibiza.
Plan Your Adventure in Hanoi
Hanoi is home to 5,922 historical and cultural heritage sites and 1,793 intangible cultural heritage elements, according to the Vietnam News Agency, Vietnam+. Hanoi's main attractions include the Imperial Citadel of Thang Long (a UNESCO World Heritage Site), the largest archaeological excavation site in Vietnam, and the Temple of Literature (Vietnam's first national university).
This thousand-year-old city is also known for its handicraft villages, the Old Quarter that reflects the city's past as the oldest in Southeast Asia, a variety of museums, historic lakes, and delicious Vietnamese cuisine.
Before visiting Hanoi, it's important to do some research and plan your trip well. Familiarize yourself with the tourist destinations, cultural attractions, and local customs to avoid an unstructured vacation before flying into Hanoi's Noi Bai International Airport. However, leave room for flexibility to explore other interesting experiences while in the city.
Choose the transportation and accommodations that best suit your needs and budget. Hanoi offers a wide range of tourist-friendly options, so choose what makes you feel most comfortable.
