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.
Theresa (verified owner) –
Kien was a great host for our tour today. The tour was unique, honest, and memorable – couldn’t have asked for more.
Highly recommend this experience for anyone visiting Hanoi! ♥️🇻🇳
Lareece (verified owner) –
I had a great time on this tour. Kien is a great guide with loads of interesting insight to share. Definitely a worthwhile experience.
KienPham –
Dear Lareece,
Thank you very much for taking the time to leave us an amazing review. We’re glad you enjoyed your experience and learned something new and interesting.
We hope to see you again in the future.
Best regards,
Kien, Quang and Cong
Jennifer (verified owner) –
This was definitely a worthwhile experience. I learned so much about the resilience of the Vietnamese and was able to see more local settings. The guide was amazing, knowledgeable, personable, and helpful.
Alicia –
Hi team,
I will be travelling with my hubby and 2 boys (of 9 and 12 years old). They are not the best listeners but they are very interested in war stories, can they safely join the not-to-go-alone tour?
KienPham –
Dear Alicia,
Thank you for reaching out!
We have hosted many families with kids, and they all loved the tour. Even though the market may seem a bit chaotic, our host will provide guidance to ensure you have a great experience. Additionally, the kids will have the opportunity to learn something new and interesting by the end of the tour.
We look forward to seeing you soon!
Ben G –
Greetings,
What make you choose Vietnam Association for Victims of Agent Orange/Dioxin and Blue Dragon Children’s Foundation in Hanoi to donate?
KienPham –
Hi Ben,
Since the beginning, our team has been dedicated to charity organizations as our main goal is to give back to the community. According to Britannica, Vietnam has reported that approximately 400,000 people have suffered death or permanent injury from exposure to Agent Orange. Additionally, it is estimated that 2,000,000 people have experienced illnesses caused by exposure, and half a million babies have been born with birth defects due to the effects of Agent Orange. Our team actively supports the Blue Dragon’s Children Foundation, which rescues children from the streets and fights against human trafficking. We also organize charity food tour events to raise funds for these NGOs as a means of giving back to the community.