Hanoi redeems itself…
March 30th, 2006
… and empties my wallet.
Today was our free day (finally), and I spent it walking around the Old Quarter nearby Hoan Kiem Lake. This party of the city really smacks the most of Paris, with tree lined boulevards and scores of winding streets lined with tiny little shops. Each street seems to have a different theme: knock off designer luggage, shoes, second hand clothing, paint thinner and motor parts, laquerware, lanterns, and beautiful silk handbags, scarves, and clothing.
Everyone prefers to deal in US currency, and the deals are amazing. Beautiful silk clothing - tailor made to fit - is something like 30-50 USD. Scarves and bags were usually around 5 dollars. Certainly there was a lot of junky stuff, but some definate quality items as well. This was a pretty refreshing change from shopping in China.
It was great fun shopping this afternoon. I think one could purchase a wonderful wardrobe here. It’s definately in the nicest area of the city as well. I wish I had more time to pick this place apart, but we are flying to Beijing tomorrow. Hopefully another time.
