The sad ending of Hanoi’s Train Street

The ending of Hanoi's Train Street.

Touring Hanoi’s attractions – the Temple of Literature

Contrary to the Imperial City of Thang Long, the Temple of Literature was brimming with all sorts of visitors - locals and foreigners. Regardless, I found some peace and quietness here, as I would find in any temple whilst travelling through Vietnam. The Temple of Literature is considered the first national University in the country. … Continue reading Touring Hanoi’s attractions – the Temple of Literature →

Exploring the Imperial Citadel of Thang Long in Hanoi

There was a crowd of little children at the entrance of the Citadel and I hesitated for a moment before going in. The jet lag was almost cured, but my head was still throbbing a little, as finding peace in Hanoi can be quite a challenge. The children were noisy and errant. The caretakers were … Continue reading Exploring the Imperial Citadel of Thang Long in Hanoi →

The mysterious Hoan Kam Lake in Hanoi

It is really hard to escape the cacophony of sounds in Hanoi and there is just literally so much stuff pilling everywhere - from mopeds, people, storefronts full of different objects, food - that even your eyes need a break, just something to look at that is simple, uncomplicated. I crave going to place where … Continue reading The mysterious Hoan Kam Lake in Hanoi →

A visit to Bizantium, Constantinople…Istanbul

Not the sunset I arrived to. The sun was setting when I crossed Galata Bridge. The shape of Suleymaniye Mosque minarets and its majestic dome were dark against a sky set on fire. And when I ventured outside of the hotel looking for sustainment, the flames in the sky had subsided. It was then the … Continue reading A visit to Bizantium, Constantinople…Istanbul →