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.
Peter –
Hey guys 👋, me and my wife would love to join your tour on Friday afternoon. We are traveling from Mai Chau in the morning and I am not 100% sure if we can make it to 14:00. Do you think it will be possible to book the tour even during the day based on the travel situation ? Or is it usually booked up that day based in your experience ? Should we just book now and risk it ?
Thanks for advice,
Peter
Cong Trong –
@Peter: Hi Peter,
Thank you so much for reaching out! We are so glad that you are interested in the experience. Please make the booking for 2 PM tomorrow, even if you are not able to join, you will be fully refunded.
Have a nice day!
Best regards,
Cong, Kien and Quang
Peter –
@Cong Trong: That is amazing, thanks 🙏
Cong Trong –
@Peter: Mai Chai is just 150 km away from Hanoi, it takes about 3,5 hours to get here, so you should be able to come back by 2 PM.
Please note that the meeting point is at 24 Chua Vua Street (about 2,5 km away from the Hoan Kiem Lake).
Thanks again and enjoy your trip to Mai Chai!
Peter –
@Cong Trong: Probably yes, i was just worried a bit since we also need to check in, probably some lunch etc..
Anyway thanks again ✌🏻 i will book the tour
Cong Trong –
@Peter: Thank you and have a lovely day!
Jakub (verified owner) –
We had a great tour with Kien, really interesting stories and honest take on all things past and present. He speaks perfect English, knows history really well and makes sure the guests are refreshed during the tour)
Halston (verified owner) –
A truly insightful, informative and engaging experience. Kiên was a fantastic guide and extremely personable. He was very knowledgeable and engaging going above and beyond throughout the tour. I highly recommend this experience and would do it again in a heartbeat if/when I’m back in Hanoi!
Will (verified owner) –
I would highly recommend this experience. Kien is a cool, local guy who’s incredibly friendly and knowledgeable. He speaks impeccable English. This tour truly does take you to places that you wouldn’t go on your own. They are not on TripAdvisor, but they are far more interesting if you truly want to understand both the history of Vietnam and the lifestyle of the people living there.
Dan (verified owner) –
Amazing your – we learned so much about Hanoi and felt like the rest of our time in Vietnam was enriched because of this tour. Highly recommend.