Hanoi Kids

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While still at home surfing the net, I came across a group called Hanoi Kids and booked a day with them. What this is, is a sponsored group of university students who wish to practice their english skills with native english speakers, in return for the practice, they spend the day with you, showing you the sights and the hidden side of Hanoi. A win - win situation for all. Our gal, Ngoc, is very knowledgeable and speaks excellent English. With her, we toured the Ho Chi Minh complex, the Temple of Literature, Hoa Lan prison(where the POW's were kept during the war) and One Pillar Pagoda. The tour of the prison was a real eye opener, and a totally different perspective than what we know of the war. She took us to a traditional Vietnamese restaurant, a place we never would have ventured into on our own, where we sat on the floor on rattan mats, and ate from low tables. We had rice rolls with a dipping sauce , two types of salad, both from shredded something, puffy rice squares, and of course veggies and rice. To finish up the day, on the way back to the hotel she took us to a coffee house which again, we never would have ventured on out own.
Totally wonderful experience and a great day.

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Photos

Hanoi Kids
Our guide, Ngoc

Hanoi Kids
Ho Chi Minh mosoleum

Hanoi Kids
Statue of Ho Chi Minh

Lunch
traditional Vietnamese style