7 THINGS TO DO ON A RAINY DAY IN HANOI

If you're planning a trip to the captivating city of Hanoi, don't let the fear of rain dampen your spirits! We've curated seven fantastic rainproof things to do that will make your day in Hanoi exciting and memorable:

l. Experience Vietnamese Coffee Brewing Techniques at a Coffee Workshop.

If you're a coffee lover who starts your day with a cup of coffee, a Vietnamese coffee brewing workshop is the perfect activity for you on a rainy day in Hanoi. After enjoying a hearty local breakfast, make your way to a hidden gem of a café nestled in an alley near the renowned Old Quarter. A local coffee expert will walk you through the intriguing journey from basic café phin (black coffee) to tasting original coffee to special Vietnamese egg coffee, salt coffee, and coconut coffee. You'll be able to test your creativity by decorating your cup of coffee. Don't forget to take a photo to share with your family back home!

You can check out Coffee workshop by Beyond Vietnam for details

Tip: Don't forget to carry your ground coffee. You'll receive a PDF recipe and a phin to take home, so you can practice what you've learned.

2. Explore Hanoi with a Comfortable Car Tour

A city tour by car is a comfortable and efficient way to navigate Hanoi's bustling streets. Learn about the Hanoi's history, architecture, and local life while staying dry and sheltered from the rain. A car tour lets you explore the city's diverse neighborhoods and landmarks, from the historic Old Quarter to the modern skyline, seamlessly.

3. Immerse Yourself in Vietnamese Culture at Museums

A rainy day is a perfect opportunity to delve into Vietnam's rich cultural heritage by visiting its impressive museums. At the History Museum, learn about Vietnam's past, discover the diverse ethnic groups at the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology, and gain insight into the role of women in Vietnamese society at the Vietnam Women's Museum.

4. Experience a Traditional Water Puppet Show

Water puppetry, a thousand-year-old tradition originating in the Red River Delta and rice-growing areas of northern Vietnam, is a must-see when visiting Hanoi. Watch the wooden puppets, lacquered for durability, move over water, controlled by puppeteers hidden behind a screen. You can enjoy a water puppet show at the Thang Long Water Puppet Theater, located in the heart of Hanoi. The Vietnam water puppet show lasts about an hour and usually starts in the afternoon and continues into the evening.

5. Savor a Traditional Vietnamese Hotpot

Rainy or cold days in Hanoi are perfect for enjoying a hotpot with family, friends, or colleagues. Hotpot, a favorite dish of Vietnamese people all over the country, varies by region in terms of ingredients and spices. In Hanoi, try a river crab hotpot, beef hotpot with vinegar, duck hotpot with crocodile, chicken hotpot, or frog hotpot. If you're a vegetarian, a mushroom hotpot would be a great choice.

6. Retail Therapy at Hanoi's Vibrant Shopping Malls

Visit Hanoi's vibrant shopping malls for some retail therapy and to stay dry indoors. Find a variety of shops selling fashion, accessories, souvenirs, and local handicrafts. Enjoy a blend of international and local brands, delicious food court offerings, and entertainment for a comprehensive shopping experience.

7. Indulge in Luxurious Spa Treatments

Escape the rainy outdoors and indulge in a pampering session at one of Hanoi's luxurious spas. Enjoy a soothing massage, a rejuvenating facial, or a meticulous manicure. Let the calming ambiance and skilled therapists relieve your stress and tension, transforming a rainy day into a blissful retreat of relaxation and self-care.

Travel Tips for a Rainy Day in Hanoi

• Always carry a stylish raincoat or umbrella to stay dry and comfortable during your outings in Hanoi.

• Bring comfortable, waterproof shoes or sandals suitable for all types of weather and activities.

• Embrace the rain and the unique charm it brings to Hanoi; it might make your trip even more memorable!

Rain or shine, no matter the weather, the magic of Hanoi remains undimmed, offering a truly captivating experience. So when life gives you a rainy day, play in the puddles and make the most of your adventure in Hanoi!

Beyond Vietnam