When people what country really stood out to me in the first half of my travel adventure, Vietnam is at the top of my list. Specifically, the capital of Vietnam, Hanoi.

*Carmody family standing outside the Tran Quoc Pagoda*

While I’ve LOVED the sunrises and sunsets in Phuket, Thailand (see related article), I wanted to show “the perfect spot” to watch the sun go down here in Hanoi — right in front of the Tran Quoc Pagoda.

*Love this pagoda anytime of day, but sunset time is magical*

I also had the pleasure of introducing my family to local Vietnamese food. This is day one of a seven-day adventure, but we sure made the most of it together. We had pho for breakfast and lunch with my friend Duc (who I first met here in back in November — see related article).

*Vietnamese Pho is famous world wide, and best eaten locally*

Tomorrow, we all go to Ninh Binh (including my friend Duc) and I suspect we’ll also venture to Ha Long Bay as well as Train Street. I’m inclined to skip the water puppet show. While I enjoyed it last time around, I don’t think my family would be into it.

I’m excited to be back here in Hanoi, Vietnam. It’s a lovely part of the world and I’m excited to share it with my family.

*Is this not the BEST ad for a barber? I took action on it today!*

And yes, if you noticed my hair cut, I have this ad to thank for it. I’m a visual learner, so when I see a stunning visual, I tend to take action. Besides, the haircuts in Vietnam are a fraction of the cost elsewhere in the world — even when paying the tourist price (vs. the local $2 shave and haircut I received last time). I really love it here. Violet had “the best” boba tea (trà sữa trân châu) she’s ever had … for $1.

I told her she could have 1-2 every day if she wanted. Combined, they are so much less than what we pay in Port Washington for just one or two of these drinks. The cost of living in Vietnam can’t be beat.

Back to Hanoi, Vietnam (March 24, 2026)

Farewell, Phuket (March 23, 2026)