Hanoi during the Vietnam War: the dark side of its most famous monuments.
Discover life under the planned economy, the fate(s) of the local people from both sides (the North and the South; and the story of the unification of Vietnam, a country once divided between the communist and anti-communist, on the brink of the COLD WAR)
Our “stroll” will last about 2.5 hours, with a short taxi ride halfway through. The aim of my walk is to make you discover specific areas of Hanoi (far away from the tourist’s eyes) in the light of aspects of our city’s rich history that are rarely touched upon by guidebooks, with in-depth information (history buffs welcome) but in a relaxed and joyful atmosphere. A conversation, rather than a lecture!
Places we will visit:
– Cho Gioi area
– Kham Thiem B52 memorial
– Hanoi Train Street
Note: 20% of the profit will be donated to the Vietnam Association for Victims of Agen Orange/Dioxin; Blue Dragon Children’s Foundation.
✔️ 3-hour long guided walking tour
✔️ Coffee and/or Tea
✔️ Expert guide
❌ Gratuities
Hat & sunscreen
Walking shoes
You need to give us your WhatsApp number, G-mail or local number so we can find you in the case we do not see you.
24 Chua Vua, Phố Huế, Hai Bà Trưng district
Cho Gioi is a big second-hand market, but it is not a good idea for tourists to go there alone. It is very busy with people who know the area and how it works. Tourists may have trouble getting around and may be tricked by local sellers. It is better to go with someone who knows the area, so they can keep you from getting lost. Cho Gioi is an exciting and fascinating market, and if you take the right steps, it can be a safe and enjoyable experience.
By looking at the events that had an impact on Vietnam, we can get a full picture of the country’s past, from the old kingdoms that were once in the area, to the long and tough fight for freedom from French control, and the later civil war that lasted for many years. Learning about the effects of the Vietnam War and what came after, as well as the country’s transformation into a modern state, gives us a special look into the people and cultures of Vietnam.
Pose questions and engage in meaningful dialogue with the young hosts. As the tour is a small group, you can have a much deeper conversation with the host on topics such as history, politics, and economics.
Since the train street in the Old Quarter has been closed for a while due to safety issues, there is only one train street left for visitors to explore. It is much quieter than the original train street, yet still has the same charm that made the original so popular with tourists. You can stroll along the tracks, stopping to observe the beautiful sights and have a cup of Vietnamese coffee.
20% of the profit from our tour will be donated to the Vietnam Association for Victims of Agent Orange/Dioxin and the Blue Dragon Children’s Foundation. In addition, we organize charity events to raise funds for these NGOs.
As of August 2023, we have donated a total of 14,000,000 VND ($600) since launching the tour in March 2023. This is how our young team can give back to the community.
Jennifer (verified owner) –
This was the best tour I had in North Vietnam. Incredibly knowledgeable about the history and impacts of political systems and wars. A true inside look at these. Getting away from the tourist areas and learning about the real lives of the people of Hanoi under the umbrella of the above topic. This is the kind of tour that should be everywhere in Vietnam. I would highly recommend it.
Rie (verified owner) –
とにかく期待以上の深い話を聞くことができました！
始めにコーヒーを飲みながらベトナムの歴史を多方面から本当にわかりやすく説明していただきました。その中には私が知らないこともあり、立場が違うと情報が違うこと、そして実際にご家族の体験からの本物の情報は何よりも響くものがありました。彼の英語はとても聞きやすく、そして、わからないとすぐに説明してくれました。
話を聞いた後に特殊なマーケットで、コミュニティについてや、お金のあるシステムが始まる前からの名残があることなどを聞きながら歩きました。
彼の話は実際にそこに住む人たちからの話や関係性もあり、彼だからこそ聞ける話がたくさんあります。ベトナムの歴史とそれによる個人の生活変化について教えていただきました。
そして電車を待つまでの時間にもまだまだ戦争についての話や南北の人の違いなどを聞き、本当に考えさせられるツアーでした。
心が優しく頭の良い彼のツアーはハノイにきたら絶対に参加するべきツアーです！体験者から話を聞くことは響きが違います。どうぞこれを見た方は迷うことなく参加してください！
Yash (verified owner) –
An incredibly unique experience walking around neighbourhoods that are off the beaten tourist routes! Quang’s expert knowledge is super handy as you get to experience a really local side of things! As it’s a group tour, you also get the opportunity to connect with other like minded people, who are inquisitive and out-going. I highly recommend Quang’s tour, which was recommended to me by word of mouth, as it truly shows you Hanoi like in no other way. With Quang as your expert guide, rest assured you’re in safe hands!
Conner (verified owner) –
Wonderful little tour if you want to go off the beaten tourist path, learn a broad overview of Vietnamese history, and check out some places you wouldn’t otherwise go. Kiên was an awesome host.
Sharon (verified owner) –
Kien is very considerate and kind. We were immersed in his story telling. The history of Vietnam is quite fascinating and combined with visiting the sites made the experience more immersive. We would definitely recommend this experience:)