Vietnam Plans
Aug 27th, 2002, 01:00 PM
#2
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Monica,<BR><BR>It depends on what you're interested in seeing/doing. I haven't really gone to Vietnam with a tour service before, but the country is not very difficult to navigate on your own. Without knowing any specific details, I would suggest that you stay in Hanoi and take a day trip to Halong Bay (or even spend one night there). I did Halong Bay as a daytrip from Hanoi and it was very easy. THere are many Vietnamese tour operators in Hanoi that could arrange for such a trip. Hanoi itself will certainly occupy the rest of your time. The city is very beautiful with many sites to visit and lots of shopping opportunities. <BR><BR>Vietnam is a beautiful country that you'll find very rewarding. December is also a good time to visit, weather in Hanoi will be in the 70s, maybe high 60s.
Aug 28th, 2002, 06:01 AM
#4
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Monica,<BR><BR>Not knowing your budget, I would suggest the Sofitel Metropole, which is located near the Lake of the Restored Sword (15 minute walk to the Old Quarters). The Metropole is wonderful hotel full of old-world charm and ambiance, and it's incredibly refined. You will feel transported back to the days of Indochina and the staff are wonderful--they still send me Christmas cards every year. I usually request a room in the old section. I've been there about 7 times over the past five years. However, all this does come at a price. I don't know what current rates are but they were running $140-200/night while I was there. Check the internet, there may be some good discounts. Even if you can't afford to stay there, definitely come by and have a drink in the lobby or by the pool.<BR><BR>I haven't really stayed at any other hotels in Hanoi, but the Hilton Opera is across the street from the Metropole. And while I find the Hilton's decor a bit over-the-top opulent, the location is good. At either hotels, you'll be on lovely tree-line streets a few hundred yards from the newly restored Opera House. <BR><BR>Hope that helps!<BR>Kathy<BR><BR>
Aug 29th, 2002, 11:48 PM
#5
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Would recommend heading over to the other side of Hoan Kiem lake from where the Sofitel is located - livelier area full or narrow streets and shops, loads of hotels in all price ranges. Sofitel area seemed too quiet...then again, I've only been there for hot chocolate at seriously odd hours. <BR><BR>As for just 4-5 days, I'd say stick to Hanoi and do one sidetrip either to Cat Ba/Halong or Sa Pa. All these tours are offered by dozens of agencies in Hanoi.
Aug 30th, 2002, 03:16 PM
#6
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The Halong Bay and Cat Ba Island tour is in deed excellent and I know there are lots of companies offering it. I spent three days on Halong Bay on a splendid old boat operated by the Kangaroo Cafe. It was one of the highlights of my 3 week vacation. Hanoi is a truly beautiful city with an amazing energy and lots of great old French colonial buildings to feast your eyes on. I think 1 or 2 days on Halong Bay and the rest in the city is what I would do. Have fun.Rip.
