Is Hanoi easy to get around?
Hanoi is easily navigable. A comprehensive bus network provides affordable and reliable transport throughout the city. Buses are frequent and tickets cost around VND 7,000, purchased onboard.
How easy is it to travel around Hanoi, Vietnam? Accessibility?
Okay, Hanoi travel, lemme tell ya… It’s…well, interesting. Public transit? Buses galore!
They practically blanket the entire city! Seriously, almost everywhere. Think you’re stranded? Nope, bus.
And cheap? Dirt cheap, basically. Like, 7,000 VND a ride… That’s, what, like, less than half a dollar USD? Insane!
I remember one time, trying to get from the Old Quarter (think it was Hang Gai street, early November) to Hoan Kiem Lake. Jumped on a bus, paid the conductor (they still have those!), and BAM, there in like 15 minutes. So easy!
But be warned! Figuring out which bus goes where… that’s another story entirely. Can be confusssing. Google Maps is your friend, trust me.
How easy is it to walk around Hanoi?
Walking in Hanoi? A nightmare. Seriously. Narrow sidewalks, choked with motorbikes. It’s a constant battle, dodging wheels. Exhaust fumes sting your eyes. You’re always on edge.
The Old Quarter? Forget it. A chaotic maze. Impossible to stroll peacefully. You feel rushed, overwhelmed. I hated it.
Hanoi is NOT a walkable city. Not for the faint of heart. I felt trapped, constantly stressed. Even the parks are…crowded.
- Avoid the Old Quarter entirely if you want a pleasant walk. Seriously, it’s terrible.
- Explore West Lake area instead. More space, less chaotic. Still some motorbike issues, but it’s bearable.
- Use Grab or taxis. This saved my sanity. Worth the expense for peace of mind.
- Wear sturdy shoes. You’ll be navigating uneven surfaces and dodging obstacles. Trust me on this.
- Bring a face mask. The air quality is dreadful.
Ho Chi Minh City? Similar, but worse. More traffic. Less charm. More concrete. Just…more. I only stayed a few days and used taxis almost exclusively, and I am usually a walking person. I felt it wasn’t safe or enjoyable to walk.
I remember specifically almost getting hit by a motorbike on Hang Bac street in Hanoi. It was terrifying. I still have nightmares about it. I’d give Hanoi’s walkability a 2/10. Maybe lower. 2024 is no different from previous years. Still a mess.
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