APMAA 2024

Manual

***

Everything you need to enjoy a trip to Hanoi

1. General information

1.1 Vietnam

• General information: Vietnam is a growing Southeast Asian country with 100 million population, own language, socialist party, rich culture and history, tourism and beauty, and open market economy.
• Location: Vietnam is located in Southeast Asia, bordered by China to the north, Laos to the northwest, Cambodia to the southwest, and the South China Sea to the east.
• Capital and Major Cities: The capital is Hanoi, located in the northern part of the country. Ho Chi Minh City (formerly Saigon) is the largest city and an important economic hub. Other major cities include Da Nang, Hai Phong, and Can Tho.
• Population: Vietnam has a population of approximately 100 million people, making it one of the most populous countries in Southeast Asia.
• Language: The official language is Vietnamese but many people can use English very well especially young generation and people in Tourist industry.
• Government: Vietnam is a one-party socialist republic. The Communist Party of Vietnam (CPV) is the sole political party, and the General Secretary of the CPV is the most powerful political figure.
• Economy: Vietnam has a rapidly growing economy, transitioning from a centrally planned system to a mixed-market economy with socialist orientation. Key industries include manufacturing, agriculture, tourism, and technology.
• Culture: Vietnamese culture is influenced by a long history, including periods of Chinese domination, French colonial rule, and significant internal development. It has a rich tradition in art, music, literature, and cuisine. Notable cultural symbols include the áo dài (traditional dress), Vietnamese cuisine (like phở and bánh mì), and the use of motorbikes as a primary means of transportation.
• Tourism and Natural Beauty: Vietnam is known for its stunning landscapes, from the terraced rice fields in the north to the Mekong Delta in the south. Popular tourist destinations include Ha Long Bay, Hội An, Huế, Sapa, and the Cu Chi Tunnels.

1.2 City of Hanoi

The VNU is located in the capital city of Vietnam – Hanoi. This is a vibrant city that serves as the political, cultural, and historical heart of the country. Here are some key aspects of Hanoi:

• Location: Hanoi is located in northern Vietnam, along the Red River. Its strategic position has made it a significant city throughout Vietnamese history.
• History: Hanoi has a rich history dating back over a thousand years. It became the capital of Vietnam in 1010 under the Lý Dynasty and has served as the capital during various periods, including French colonial rule and since Vietnam’s reunification in 1976.
• Population: Hanoi has a population of over 8 million people, making it the second-most populous city in Vietnam after Ho Chi Minh City.
• Architecture and Layout: Hanoi’s architecture reflects its diverse history, with ancient temples, French colonial buildings, and modern high-rises. The city’s layout features narrow streets, bustling markets, and scenic lakes.
• Culture and Landmarks: Hanoi is known for its rich cultural heritage. Key landmarks include:
• Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum: A significant site where the embalmed body of Ho Chi Minh, the founding leader of modern Vietnam, is preserved.
• Temple of Literature: Vietnam’s first university, founded in 1070, dedicated to Confucius.
• Hoan Kiem Lake: A picturesque lake in the heart of the city, with the iconic Turtle Tower on a small island.
• Old Quarter: A bustling area with narrow streets named after the traditional crafts that once dominated the district.
• One Pillar Pagoda: A unique Buddhist temple dating back to the 11th century.
• Thang Long Imperial Citadel: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, representing the historical and cultural significance of Hanoi.
• Cuisine: Hanoi is famous for its street food and traditional Vietnamese dishes. Phở, the iconic Vietnamese noodle soup, is believed to have originated here. Other popular dishes include bánh cuốn (steamed rice rolls), bún chả (grilled pork with vermicelli), and chả cá Lã Vọng (grilled fish with turmeric and dill).
• Education and Economy: Hanoi is a center of education with numerous universities and research institutions. It also plays a crucial role in Vietnam’s economy, with industries ranging from manufacturing to technology and tourism.
• Transportation: The city has a mix of traditional and modern transportation. Motorbikes are a common sight, and the public transportation system includes buses and, more recently, a metro line. Traffic in Hanoi can be chaotic, reflecting the city’s energetic pace.

Overall, Hanoi is a city that beautifully merges tradition and modernity, offering a unique blend of cultural experiences, historical sites, and contemporary developments.

Web 1: https://www.vietnamparadisetravel.com/travel-guide/hanoi-city

Web 2: https://hanoifreetourguides.com/

2. Transportation

2.1. By plane

If you’re planning to travel to Hanoi by plane, you’ll arrive at Noi Bai International Airport (IATA code: HAN), the main international gateway to Vietnam’s capital city. Here’s what you need to know about getting to Hanoi by plane:

• Noi Bai International Airport (HAN): Located about 28 km (17 miles) north of central Hanoi, Noi Bai is Vietnam’s second-busiest airport. It serves both domestic and international flights and has two terminals: Terminal 1 (T1) for domestic flights and Terminal 2 (T2) for international flights.
• Airlines and Routes: A variety of airlines operate flights to Noi Bai, including Vietnam Airlines, VietJet Air, Bamboo Airways, and Pacific Airlines, as well as international carriers like Korean Air, Japan Airlines, Cathay Pacific, Qatar Airways, Singapore Airlines, and others. Major cities with direct flights to Hanoi include Bangkok, Tokyo, Seoul, Singapore, Kuala Lumpur, Hong Kong, Doha, Frankfurt, and Paris. Any USA cities of direct connection?
• Getting from the Airport to Hanoi: Once you arrive at Noi Bai, there are several transportation options to reach central Hanoi:
• Taxi: Taxis are readily available at the airport. The ride to downtown Hanoi takes about 30-45 minutes, depending on traffic, and costs approximately 350,000 to 450,000 VND (display in US$, although roughly). Use reputable taxi companies like Mai Linh or Taxi Group to avoid scams.
• Airport Shuttle Bus: The Noi Bai Express (NBE) shuttle bus connects the airport to downtown Hanoi, with stops at various locations, including the Old Quarter and Hoan Kiem Lake. The fare is generally lower than a taxi, and buses run at regular intervals.
• Ride-Sharing Services: Apps like Grab (kind of Uber service in Vietnam) and Be are popular in Vietnam and offer a convenient alternative to traditional taxis.
• Car Rental: Several car rental agencies operate at the airport, allowing you to rent a car for self-driving. However, driving in Hanoi can be challenging due to heavy traffic and unfamiliar road conditions.
• Airport Facilities: Noi Bai International Airport offers various services, including baggage claim, customs, currency exchange, ATMs, car rental desks, and duty-free shopping. There are also lounges, restaurants, and cafes in both terminals.

 

3. Practical information

3.1. Weather

Hanoi experiences a humid subtropical climate, characterized by distinct seasons, with significant variations in temperature and precipitation throughout the year. Here is a brief overview of the weather in Hanoi: Winter (December to February), Spring (March to April), Summer (May to August), Autumn (September to November)

• Summer (May to August): Summer in Hanoi is hot and humid, with temperatures often reaching 30°C to 35°C (86°F to 95°F). June and July are typically the hottest months. This period sees the most rainfall, with frequent thunderstorms and heavy downpours, especially in the afternoon and evening. Humidity is high, and the city can feel quite muggy. If visiting during the summer, lightweight and breathable clothing is recommended.

Given Hanoi’s varying weather patterns, it’s essential to plan your visit with these seasonal characteristics in mind. Whether you prefer cooler temperatures and fewer crowds or don’t mind the heat and occasional rain, Hanoi has something to offer year-round.

4. Accommodation

Hanoi offers a variety of 4- and 5-star hotels, providing upscale accommodations and amenities to meet the needs of travelers seeking luxury, comfort, and exceptional service. Price range per night: 50-100$ for 4-star hotel. Here’s some brief information about these hotels in Hanoi:

General Features

• Location: Most 4- and 5-star hotels in Hanoi are located in central areas, such as the Old Quarter, Hoan Kiem district, Ba Dinh district, and near West Lake. This makes them convenient for accessing major attractions, shopping, dining, and business districts.
• Amenities: These hotels typically offer a range of upscale amenities, including:

                 – Fine dining restaurants and bars

                 – Fitness centers and swimming pools

                 – Spa and wellness facilities

                 – Conference and event spaces

                 – Concierge services

                 – Business centers

• Room Types: Guests can choose from a variety of room types, ranging from standard luxury rooms to suites and executive floors. Rooms often include high-quality furnishings, premium bedding, flat-screen TVs, complimentary Wi-Fi, and minibars.

 

Notable Hotels in Cau Giay District – near VNU

No	Name	Address	Distance to VNU	Price	Note
Expensive Hotel
1	Grand K Hotel 5-star	2 Pham Van Bach, Yen Hoa, Cau Giay	2.8km (8 mins)	VND 2.750.000 ($110)	Has a smart toilet
2	Movenpick Hotel 5-star	21 Duy Tan	1.8km (5 mins)	VND 2.750.000 ($110)	Has a smart toilet
Reasonable Hotel
3	Cầu Giấy – 3 star	110 Cau Giay	1.5km (5mins)	VND 1.600.000 ($70)
4	Sen Grand Hotel & Spa, Hanoi Hotel 4-star	118/20 Nguyen Khanh Toan Street	3.7km (10 mins)	VND 1.250.000 ($50)
5	A25 Hotel 4-star	66 Tran Thai Tong	1.6km (5 mins)	VND 1.000.000 ($40)
6	22 Land Classic Suites	No.35, Lane 75, Tran Thai Tong,	1.6km (5 mins)	VND 900.000 ($35)
Economical Hotel
7	Blue Pearl West Hotel	No 20/100 Hoang Quoc Viet street	1.5km (10mins)	VND 650.000 ($25)
8	Hai Mươi Hotel & Apartment	49 Tran Quoc Vuong	1km (5 mins)	VND 500.000 ($20)
9	Era Apartment Tran Thai Tong	1 Ngõ 35 Trần Thái Tông Số 17C,	1.5 km (5min)	VND 500.000 ($20)

OTHER 4,5-Star Hotels in Hanoi

• Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi: This historic 5-star hotel is one of Hanoi’s most famous luxury hotels, known for its French colonial architecture and rich history. It features elegant rooms, a renowned spa, fine dining, and a charming courtyard.
• InterContinental Hanoi Westlake: Located on the shores of West Lake, this 5-star hotel offers spacious rooms with lake views, multiple dining options, a large outdoor pool, and a tranquil setting.
• Hanoi La Siesta Hotel & Spa: A highly rated 4-star boutique hotel in the Old Quarter, offering modern comforts, a rooftop bar, a well-regarded spa, and a focus on personalized service.
• Lotte Hotel Hanoi: This 5-star hotel is part of the Lotte Center (54 Lieu Giai Street), one of Hanoi’s tallest buildings, offering panoramic city views, upscale dining, a large fitness center, and a rooftop bar. (Deluxe King USD190, include a breakfast and tax) 5 km (20 min to VNU) in another district Ba Dinh, 4.000.000(190$).
• Melia Hanoi: A centrally located 5-star hotel with spacious rooms, a rooftop pool, several restaurants, and extensive conference facilities, popular among business travelers and tourists alike.
• Hotel du Parc Hanoi (5-stars former Nikko JAL Hotel): All of the rooms are clean, bright and well-maintained with a beautiful view of the Thong Nhat park or city.

Booking and Considerations

• Advance Booking: It’s recommended to book in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons, to secure the best rates and room choices.
• Special Offers: Many hotels offer special packages, discounts, or loyalty programs, which can provide added value during your stay. (Based on our experience with previous conferences, we cannot deal with the hotel)
• Transportation and Accessibility: Some hotels offer airport transfers and other transportation services, making travel to and from the hotel convenient.
• Reviews and Recommendations: Reading reviews on platforms like TripAdvisor or Booking.com can give you insights into the quality of service and guest experiences at these hotels.

Overall, Hanoi’s 4- and 5-star hotels provide a luxurious and comfortable base for exploring the city, whether you’re traveling for business or leisure. Each hotel has its unique style and appeal, catering to a range of preferences and budgets.

***

Grand K Hotel Suites Hanoi (APMAA 2024 Conference Hotel)
No. 2 Pham Van Bach Street | Yen Hoa Ward | Cau Giay District | Hanoi | Vietnam
T. 098.400.2591; URL grandkhanoi.com

 (APMAA special rates)
For the accommodation, we offer you a Premium room at VND2,240,000nett/R/N, a Deluxe room at VND1,990,000nett/R/N., and a Junior Suite Room at VND 2,490,000nett/R/N. (Including 8% VAT & 5% service charge).

The above room rate is inclusive of:

Welcome drink upon arrival.

Complimentary daily breakfast.

Complimentary tea and coffee facilities.

Complimentary 02 bottles of water daily.

Complimentary 4-heated swimming pool.

Complimentary wifi internet in the room and throughout the hotel

 – Payment: Room charge will be paid upon check in.

 -Cancellation Policy

(Booking) Email Mrs. Tran Kim Nga (Banquet Sales Executive, salesadmin@grandkhanoi.com) directly for your booking.

(Note) The VNU will provide conference participants transportation between the Grand K Hotel Suites Hanoi and the VNU’s Xuan Thuy Campus. Email the VNU team (Dr. Huu Binh, Khieu: khieu1001@gmail.com) to obtain a list of more affordable hotels.

***

5. City tours activities

     Hanoi offers a wide range of city tours and activities that cater to different interests and allow visitors to explore the rich culture, history, and unique atmosphere of the Vietnamese capital. Here’s an overview of some popular city tours and activities in Hanoi:

Walking Tours

• Old Quarter Walking Tours: The Old Quarter is a bustling and historic area with narrow streets, traditional shops, and vibrant markets. Walking tours typically focus on the history and culture of this area, with stops at iconic sites like Hoan Kiem Lake, the Ancient House, and Dong Xuan Market.
• Food Tours: Hanoi is renowned for its street food, and food tours offer a chance to sample local delicacies like phở, bánh mì, bún chả, and more. These tours usually take you through the Old Quarter and other local spots, with a focus on authentic experiences.
• French Quarter Tours: This tour explores the colonial-era architecture and historical sites in the French Quarter, including the Hanoi Opera House, the Metropole Hotel, and the State Bank of Vietnam building.

Motorbike and Cyclo Tours

• Motorbike Tours: Motorbike tours provide an exciting way to explore Hanoi. These tours can be guided by local drivers, allowing you to experience the city as many locals do. Popular routes include the Old Quarter, West Lake, and various city landmarks.
• Cyclo Tours: Cyclos are traditional three-wheeled bicycle taxis. A cyclo tour offers a leisurely way to explore the Old Quarter and nearby areas, allowing you to soak in the sights at a relaxed pace.

Museum and Cultural Tours:

• Museum Tours: Hanoi has a variety of museums, including the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology, the Vietnam Military History Museum, and the Ho Chi Minh Museum. A guided museum tour provides insight into Vietnam’s culture, history, and heritage.
• Temple and Pagoda Tours: These tours visit some of Hanoi’s most significant temples and pagodas, such as the Temple of Literature, the One Pillar Pagoda, and the Tran Quoc Pagoda.

Day Trips and Excursions:

• Ha Long Bay Tour: Ha Long Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a popular day trip from Hanoi. Tours typically include a boat cruise through the stunning limestone karsts and visits to caves and islands.
• Perfume Pagoda Tour: This day trip takes you to the Perfume Pagoda, a complex of Buddhist temples and shrines in a scenic mountainous area. The tour often includes a boat ride and a hike to the main pagoda.
• Tam Coc and Ninh Binh Tour: This tour explores the scenic landscape of Tam Coc, known as “Ha Long Bay on land.” It often includes a boat ride through the limestone karsts and visits to ancient temples.

  Other Activities

• Water Puppet Shows: A traditional form of Vietnamese entertainment, water puppet shows are popular with visitors. The Thang Long Water Puppet Theater offers daily performances featuring traditional stories and music.
• Cooking Classes: For those interested in Vietnamese cuisine, cooking classes are a fun activity. Participants learn to prepare traditional dishes like phở, spring rolls, and more.
• Shopping Tours: These tours focus on Hanoi’s markets and shopping districts, offering a chance to explore local crafts, textiles, and souvenirs.

     These are just some of the city tours and activities available in Hanoi. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, food, or adventure, you’ll find a variety of options to suit your interests and make the most of your time in the city.