Happy Birthday, Hanoi
One Pillar Pagoda, Hanoi
A digital clock in Hanoi’s center counts down the seconds to year 1,000.
2010 is the year of Hanoi’s 1,000th birthday, an event that will be marked by a series of celebrations in this vibrant metropolis – and intriguing travel destination.
Do you remember how you celebrated our country’s bicentennial in 1976? That 4th of July I spent the week with my mother, father and brother on our boat which was docked on Lake Winnipesaukee in New Hampshire. Even to my even-year-old eyes, the atmosphere was festive – lots of food and red, white and blue.
A trio of rebel rousers which included my Dad, a family friend who was spending the weekend with us, and a guy two boats down from ours decided to dress up like that iconic image of the Revolutionary War—the Colonial drummer, fife and flag bearer—to mark our nation’s 200th birthday.
I saw a photo of the famous trio recently while digging through a shoe box of old family photos. In the aging Polaroid, a small plastic table turned upside down served as the drum with beer bottles for drum sticks and Dad, impersonating the wounded soldier, had wrapped a rag stained red (with ketchup?) around his head and used a paper towel cardboard tube as his flute. An American flag was pulled from the stern of our boat.
Yes, as I recall they were quite a sight marching around the marina singing Patriotic songs off tune. I thought it was funny back then. My kids would probably be mortified if my husband and his merry friends tried to pull a stunt like that.
Historic milestones give us a reason to celebrate (plus, a few pre-fireworks cocktails apparently do the trick as well). And whether marking 200 years or 1000 years, you know there will be performances and festivities to commemorate the historic event.
Travelers to Hanoi can expect no less in 2010.
Here you will find ancient temples; the labyrinthine Old Quarter, considered the jewel of Hanoi because of its ideal location near pristine Hoan Kiem Lake and a shopper’s paradise; and colorful outdoor markets. Hanoi which has witnessed considerable economic and cultural growth in the last couple of decades is a great place to try flavorful street food.
A two night stay in Hanoi is featured on Smithsonian Journeys Travel Adventures Treasures of Angkor Wat & Vietnam, a custom crafted tour that offers the best in educational travel.
This exciting 16-day journey through Southeast Asia showcases the fascinating history, culture, and artistic treasures of Thailand, Cambodia, and Vietnam. In addition to Hanoi, you can explore Thailand’s vibrant Bangkok and Siem Reap, Cambodia’s gateway to the temple complex of Angkor.
Throughout this region, your journey is enhanced by guided tours, expert-led discussions and leisure time to explore on your own.
Readers, have you been to Hanoi or traveled with Smithsonian Journeys Travel Adventures? I’m sure our travelers planning a visit in 2010 to Southeast Asia would love to hear your thoughts on the city and the region.
posted by Melissa McKee
Collette Vacations
Tags: 2010, Arts & Culture, Escorted Tours, Southeast Asia, Travel News, Vietnam
