Old Town Hanoi to Mountain Farm Stay in Vietnam

 When you are in Hanoi there is a plethora of food options, rarely a poor choice. Look for cafes with the little plastic chairs and don't be afraid to try all of the local street food. I found that the street food was not only the best option economically BUT also much fresher and tastier than restaurant food. It is worth waking up early and walking around the lake in the old town. You will find locals exercising and all sorts of interesting group classes that your will be welcome to join, my personal favourite was a laughter therapy class! 

A visit to Hanoi's train street will provide you with a unique experience. Hidden away in the backstreets, locals set up their cafes along the train tracks where you can enjoy a coffee and a bite to eat. All of a sudden you will notice the owners rushing out to pack away all of their tables and chairs and making sure everything is off the tracks just before the train comes flying through. It is a very narrow section of track and everyone will be clinging to the walls as the train passes by, an exhilarating experience. 

Our time at Xoi farmstay was during Tet (Vietnamese new year). This was an unforgettable experience and we were welcomed into their home like family. We spent the holiday visiting their friends and relatives who always had elaborate feasts. We participated in Tet cultural traditions including food preparation and spiritual practices. Xoi was an amazing host and showed us all of the local sites. They provide you with bikes and there is no shortage of spectacular trails to ride along and also a local natural swimming pool just on the outskirts of town. If you are not here during Tet, this is just a wonderful place to truly relax and enjoy the unforgettable surrounds.