Went to check out the historic cantilever Long Bien Bridge that links 2 districts (Hoan Kiem and Long Bien) across the Red River. 2.4kms in length, its construction was of strategic importance in securing control of North Vietnam. Built in 1899-1902 by Parisian architects and initially called the Paul Doumer Bridge (named after the Governor General of French Indo-China and then French President), it was rename after North Vietnam became independent in 1954. It was heavily bombed during the Vietnam War due to its critical position connecting Hanoi across the Red River to the port of Haiphong.

Today trains, mopeds, bicycles and pedestrians use the dilapidated bridge, while all other traffic is diverted to other nearby bridges. Poor families from remote rural areas live in boats under the bridge.

Coffee Cafe Restaurant and Bar, 4th floor, provides a great view of the Hoan Kiem roundabout – where scooters, trucks, cars, carts, bicycles and pedestrians all converge …and somehow manage to flow around each other to go on their way…..just a few toots of warning of their approach from faster vehicles, but absolutely no road rage at all. A wonder to behold!

Had lunch at the ‘Met Restaurant and Vegetarian Food’ and ordered a ginger/lemongrass tea – arrived with a little surprise package of ‘banh dau xanh’ (mung bean cake). The authentic cake has a Rong Vang (golden dragon) symbol, Emperor Bao Dai issued a royal decree in the 19thC to commend how good it was! Its slightly aromatic, buttery-fudge like – it MELTS in your mouth. Bringing a small pressie home for you all to try it.