On to Hanoi - A Journey into Culture, Conflict, and Cuisine

paulwwoods2
May 31, 2025
2 min read

Updated: Jun 6, 2025

Smiling man in a gray sleeveless shirt stands on a balcony overlooking a scenic bay with boats and lush green cliffs in the background.

What are we to experience in Vietnam?

So much more than just a destination on a map — it’s a place layered with history, heartache, heritage, and above all, humanity.

As I prepare to land in Hanoi, I find myself reflecting on what lies ahead. It’s not just about what we’ll see, but what we’ll come to understand.

Vietnam is home to an extraordinary mix of people — over 64 ethnic minority groups, each with their own customs, languages, and stories. Many of these groups trace their roots to surrounding lands: China, Cambodia, Indonesia, Malaysia, Mongolia, Thailand... the list continues like a winding river. It’s a blend of cultures that has formed a society both deeply spiritual and wonderfully diverse.

Religion here is not just something practiced — it’s woven into daily life. Buddhism, with its many branches and beliefs, pulses through the rhythm of the people. There’s a gentle dignity in how philosophy shapes character. And let’s not forget Confucianism, introduced around 1000 AD, which still guides values and is taught to schoolchildren to this day. That kind of generational wisdom is rare, and worth paying close attention to.

Then, of course, there’s the unmistakable mark of colonialism. The French once ruled here, and though their reign ended long ago, they left behind something quite breathtaking — architecture that feels like Europe tangled in tropical vines. Boulevards, balconies, and buildings that whisper of another era. The old quarters of Hanoi are a living museum — and I can't wait to walk those streets.

But not all history is beautiful.

The wars… they still bring tears to my eyes. I was conscripted, back then. I didn’t serve, but I remember those days too well. It shaped a generation — ours — and the echoes still linger in the land and its people. Visiting here feels personal, like walking alongside ghosts and gratitude all at once.

And then, there is the cuisine.

If you know me, you know that food is more than just a meal — it’s memory, connection, and culture all on one plate. I’m told every region of Vietnam has its own flavour, its own spice, its own version of love served hot in a bowl of noodles or grilled on a stick.

So here we come, my friends.

The Food you see was actually delivered in the bax...

On to Hanoi — a place of colour, complexity, and soul. I’ll walk slowly, observe deeply, and share what I can. After all, that’s why I started this blog — not just to travel, but to feel, and to take you with me.

Let’s begin.

— Paul

The NIGHT STREET TRAIN is a rare insight into HANOI and its history and Culture.

The Drinks aren't bad either, lol.

Then there bis the TEMPLE OF ENLIGHTENMENT ...Confucious and so inspiring.

I was actually inerviewed by two Temple Students....about my experiences in Vietnam over the years....Was quite interesting....