By Ade and Allana
Today started off with an early 4:30am wake up on the overnight train. It was a struggle, as most found it challenging to rise so early, and there was loud bustle and chaos disembarking the train. Hopping off the train gave us a quick boost of adrenaline, after which we felt fatigued. Wheeling our suitcases through the busy station also proved an unusually difficult process. Driving through the dark, cold streets of Hanoi left the students of Vietnam Grey longing to sleep in our luxurious new hotel, the Skylark Hotel.
We had a well-needed snooze until 8am, when our day properly started. After our delicious buffet breakfast, we had a short bus tour. First stop was the historical Temple of Literature, the first university in Vietnam, founded in 1076AD. The temple has important cultural significance; many graduates celebrate by having their picture taken there. The gorgeous architecture of the buildings reflected the importance of this area to the local Vietnamese, and reflect the importance of Confucian worship in their lives. The presence of Confucius speaks to the influence that China had upon Vietnamese culture at the time.
Next, we had a short walking tour around the picturesque lake, Hoan Kiem. It was serene and relaxing as we strolled towards the Old Quarter. Hai led us around the Old Quarter shortly before we broke off into groups to shop around small local boutiques and markets. We quickly noticed that little souvenirs were popular in Hanoi. After our little shopping spree, we ate lunch at a local restaurant, Lien Huong, where Barack Obama famously ate in 2016. The succulent barbeque pork soup, buncha, is a signature dish of the restaurant. Getting back on the bus, after lunch, we left the Old Quarter to go back to our hotel to rest.
At 5pm, we walked around Hanoi, returning to the Old Quarter to have dinner at the Little Hanoi Restaurant. We got served several traditional Vietnamese dishes that included chicken, beef and pork, and steamed rice. While eating, we read the messages written on dollar bills, hotel cards and napkins placed underneath the glass on the table by previous customers. Once we could no longer eat, the night continued with a fascinating water puppet show. It gave us an insight into the specificity and uniqueness of Vietnamese culture and their agricultural legends. After, we split into groups and explored the night market, looking at the clothes, jewellery and bags. We ended the evening by walking through the bustling streets of Hanoi back to our hotel.
Ade: To the Scallywags at home, I miss you guys so much and can’t wait to see you in a few days. Lena, congrats on finishing school and Mum I’m so proud of you and Rob. Give my love to Merlin, love Adelyne xx
Allana: To Mumma, B, jack, Tyson, indie, Dad, Maddy / long (I hope) and the rest, I love and miss you all so much and overly prepared to hear the drama that’s been going on without me there ;). Love Layna xo
