Uncle Ho is a popular guy -- even after being dead for so long -- the reverence for the father of Vietnam in profound. And it was clear from the insanely long queue that snaked along the outer street of the Mausoleum that the people of Vietnam think it a treat to meet him -- even briefly. We wait almost an hour amid an orderly and patient throng of people. When we enter the Mausoleuum, the blast of cold air sends goose bumps up my arms. The silence is eerie. The stern guards wave us along and the long line of people scamper hurriedly along the short viewing corridor, craning necks to catch a closer glimpse of the wax-like body. All too soon, we are herded outside, back into the blazing sun and heat of a Hanoi afternoon.
Sunday Brunch
We've heard a lot about the Sunday brunch buffet at the Sofitel, but want something a little more intimate and less likely to cause our pants to come undone. So in the spirit of moderation and adventure, we head to Vine (1A Xuan Dieu, Tay Ho). We were not disappointed, the Sunday Brunch a a treat!
Smoked salmon bagel starter
Angel Hair Pasta, truffle butter and asparagus
Dessert Trio: Creme Brulee, Tiramisu and Icecream
Excellent coffee
Beer Ahoy
Sunday calls for a proper bout of rest and indulgence. And there is no better way to do both than in the Old Quarter where the beer is cold, fresh and cheap. So we while away the rest of the day with Bia Hoi (fresh beer) -- a sparkling, citrusy, clean and crisp brew fresh from the keg. Some crunchy rice crackers and a chewy snack of pork skin covered in rice flour are the perfect accompaniment.
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