Maggie Tulliver
Shopping in Hanoi is indeed a unique experience. The place is not just a shopper's paradise it is a haven of exclusive goods that even the minimalist shopper will want to have. Here what to buy.
Head over to Hanoi's Old Quarter; there as yo browse around the exotic shops you will see many boutiques selling pastel pieces and colourful paintings. The ideal souvenir these pieces comprise of vintage Vietnamese propaganda posters and original works of art; best of all prices are very reasonable and for a few dollars you can walk away with an authentic piece of souvenir. However if you feel the need to splurge there are plenty of chic art galleries within the city centre offering original contemporary and classical pieces of art which can be purchased by shelling out a fairly large sun of money.
Head over to Hang Giay and Hang Duong Streets and you will come across local delicacies in the form of dried spicy beef and dried sweet vegetables and fruits better known locally as O Mai and Mut. The dried fruit especially is a speciality available only in the Hanoi region and considered very tasty. Plus it is a snack that offers variety to try in terms of fruits and vegetable so go ahead and treat the foodie in you to exotic new tastes. In fact Hanoi is so full of new discoveries and traditions that you need to choose a hassle free accommodation such as Hanoi serviced apartments in order to move to your own schedule. Ensure you are well located and able to travel with ease to the many interesting markets across the city.
Water puppet shows are very popular in Hanoi; in fact you should definitely catch one when visiting the city. The skilful manoeuvring of the water puppets by the experienced puppeteers will leave you mesmerised. Head over to the theatre area not far from the Somerset Grand Hanoi apartment hotel and you will be able to buy these colourful works of art as souvenirs of a marvellous experience in Vietnam. Puppets are available as beautiful dancing maidens, dragons, heroes on horseback and water buffalo.
Souvenir t-shirts that state 'I love Hanoi' or 'I love Vietnam' as well as other cheeky or cute slogans are freely available around Hang Gai or Ding Liet Streets. These come in many colours and sizes and make excellent gifts to take back home. On the same streets you will come across a range of silk products such as ties, bags, hats, scarfs, brocades and even 'swishy' and elegant clothes. There is an endless array and choice of goods to choose from; so plan your Hanoi shopping wisely and enjoy the sights, smells and sounds in between.
