Vietnam > Vietnam Attractions

Advantages: Very beautiful
Disadvantages: Can be busy

Hoan Kiem lake is at the centre of Hanoi and a focus point of the city. It is easy to get to and doesn't cost a penny to visit. The lake isn't too large and doesn't take too long to walk around. The lake is central to the locals as well as the tourists in Hanoi. If you visit early in the morning while it is still cool you will be able to watch the locals do Tai Chi. Badminton courts are painted onto the ground all around the lake and sometimes you ...
...is a great place to meet people and see local life. It can be busy at times but this is due to the fact that the locals love and use this lake as much as the tourists. There are loads of shops and coffee bars around and it's great to spend the afternoon people watching. ... Read review

Advantages: The theatre lets you have an insight into Vietnamese culture
Disadvantages: None

I visited the Puppet Theatre on my first trip to Hanoi and to Vietnam as a whole. The theatre is located on the banks of Hoan Kiem Lake which is a beautiful setting. Inside the theatre is small and makes you feel like you are really involved. The performance itself was magical. There is a pool of water which is used as the set and a traditional Vietnamese folk story is told using puppets. The puppeteers are positioned below and behind the pool and ...
...instruments is used to tell the storey and this is played live by musicians who are positioned next to the pool of water. The story is easy to understand and the puppets are charming. It is a really entertaining way of absorbing some of Vietnam's fantastic culture and history. The theatre is situated in the centre of Hanoi and is very easy to get to. I can't remember the exact cost but it wasn't expensive. ... Read review