I figured I wouldn't be able to use Miss Saigon references anywhere else, so might as well go full ham until the well has dried up, much like the Yakult references

... and since I no longer remember all of the happenings that day, let me just dump all the photos here, and end it with a list of things that I have either learned while in Vietnam, or things I badly miss there a.k.a. food ☝🖒🤔😂











Unlike other Asian cities, I noticed that Hanoi doesn't have über-modern and sleek skyscrapers; instead, they have French-inspired mid-rise buildings, most of which look a bit worn out, which in turn gives it an old-worldly charm. Like its neighbouring countries, it has such a rich culture that is abundant in the city of Hanoi.

For those who are thinking of going there, I have a few musings that might help you out ☝😘
1. Things in Hanoi are very affordable. Now, now, I am not a loaded gal, but during my stay in Hanoi, money wasn't my biggest worry. If you are from the PH (like me!), your 5k will go a loooong way-but of course, better bring some spare for shopping!
2. Their food is magnificent!!!! I remember when we were there, I always found myself wondering why the Vietnamese are so thin, and I suppose I sort of got the answer when I was able to have a bite of authentic Vietnamese cuisine! My absolute fave is Banh Mi with different kinds of fillings!
3. While on the subject of food, if you are quite a picky eater (or found comfort having a westernised palate), don't fret because they have Burger King and KFC there- but c'mon, why not try at least a bite of some Bun Cha! Don't knock 'til you try it.
4. Vietnamese coffee 👏👏👏 but a little PSA, they are quite strong! So if you have an acidic stomach, or worse, GERD, better stock up on antacids ☝
5. Accommodations are fairly affordable, but don't expect having a spatial abode... but then again, it's not as bad as budget hotels in Hong Kong 🤔🤔🤔
6. You must go to Ha Long Bay! It is a UNESCO site for a reason, and I am certain you won't regret seeing all of its magnificence with your own eyes.
7. While motorcycles are their ultimate go-to transpo, that doesn't mean you can only go to places via a bike. They have taxis, but I prefer Grab more, so you'd better install Grab before going there.
8. Their malls aren't as spectacular as the ones we have back in Manila- I mean, they do scrimp out on air conditioning 🤷‍♀️🤦‍♂️
9. Not everyone speaks English, hence the need for the Google Translate app on your device... but if you know how to speak French, you have a fighting chance to survive here hahaha!
10. Vietnam is actually pretty humid, even during September to November, you might as well bring along clothes that are lightweight, and breezy.

Lastly...

HAVE FUN AND EAT ALL THE DELICIOUS FOOD!

Love Always,
Nicole ❣🧚‍♀️