Train Street, Hanoi (November 25, 2025)
One of the things I seek out when traveling the world are “only available here” locations and events. Hanoi, Vietnam is full of these. Today’s venture is particularly unique. Chances are you’ve had a cup of coffee while waiting for a train, but unless you’ve visited Train Street in Hanoi, you’ve never been able to “reach out and touch” said train … from your table … without getting up. What!?!
Enjoying an “Egg Coffee” on Train Street this close to the tracks!
As you can imagine, this is quite the tourist attraction. In fact, it’s the only street of its kind in the world. Nowhere else can people get so close to a moving train (and live to talk about it). There are entire tour packages built around this experience because, as you can imagine, it’s quite memorable and an unforgettable one.
How is this possible? It’s the same reason the congested streets just “work” here in Vietnam. I chalk it up to the foundations of communism — “WE” vs. “ME.” Take a look at a typical road on a typical day:
Chaos or ingenious? I’ve witnessed no accidents despite all of this!
At first, I was bothered by all the horn honking. The horns were blowing nonstop. As a New Yorker, I grew up being trained that a horn blow is a vehicle’s middle finger. “Watch it! Get out of my way!” Not here in Vietnam. It’s considered polite and very much like your turn signal. “I’m here and neither of us want to get into an accident, so let’s work together to avoid one.” WE vs. ME. Same horn, different intention.
I think the train is the same thing. It can come through a crowded street because the driver knows it’s a tourist attraction and slows down — enough so everyone can enjoy the experience, but not so much that the train is late. Everyone works together to get what they need.
Here comes the train (sung to “Here Comes The Sun”, by the Beatles)
I also tried an “Egg Coffee” which comes highly recommended. It tastes a lot like a caramel latte with extra foam. At least, that’s the best way I can describe it as it truly has its own unique flavor.
Egg coffee just off the train tracks; truly fascinating how close I am
Another thing Vietnam is known for is its tailors. Long before visiting here, I was told to seek them out because here you can get a completely custom tailored suit for a fraction of the cost back home. Even high end mens stores like Brooks Brothers, generally start with a suite that’s pre-made and then charge you for each individual adjustment. Despite the high quality fabrics, you’re buying off the rack.
Not here in Vietnam, you pick out the fabric and the tailor measures every inch of your body — something like 30 distinct measurements. They work in teams. One tailor with the tape measure and the other with the clipboard writing fast and furious.
After all my measurements were taken, I did a brief walk around the lake and saw more of the sights. The pagoda is one of the more iconic spots just off the lake, but there’s lots to see in and around Hanoi. What I love about walking around is that you get a real feel for the city your in. It’s tempting to jump in a cab (or a “Grab” which is the local Uber here), but then you speed by everything. I much prefer to focus in on where I am and see the sights.
Tomorrow, I head on out to Ninh Binh for an epic day trip. I can’t wait!
