INTRODUCING: Natalie Parmenter

1. Why did you move to Hanoi?

I moved to Ha Noi to teach at an international school.  I had always wanted to live in another country; the more I read about Vietnam the more interested I was.  I am so happy I moved to Hanoi, I am in love with this city.  I have been here over a year and a half and we will see how long I stay

2. Do you speak much Vietnamese?

My first year here I took some Vietnamese courses, but I really struggled with the tones.  I have key phrases and vocabulary memorised now, but the rest is with gesturing.

3. What was your first impression of the city?

I vividly remember when I drove into the city from the airport.  I had never been to Vietnam before and the only other place I had been in Asia was Thailand.  My face was pressed against the window with my jaw dropped.  Everything was so different from the suburban cities I know in America.  I was immediately intrigued and a little terrified I would not find a place here.  I quickly realised just how enchanting Hanoi is.

4. What is it about Hanoi you have grown to love?

Hanoi is a constant mystery to me.  Every time I think I finally know my neighbourhood I discover a whole world in a back alleyway just a block away.  I go running through the city (quite the challenge on uneven sidewalks!) and I love seeing everyone else outdoors.  People live their whole lives in the public here, at home, no one is ever outside.

5. What aspect of Hanoi is the most different from your home country? 

At first glance, I would say all the motorbikes.  Most people in America drive cars.  Even people that own motorcycles in the States often have a car as well.

6. What do you miss the most about your home country?

I miss the ease of grocery shopping.  At home, all the food is found in 1 store.  Here, even if I go to a big store I end up going to at least one other store to get extra ingredients.

7. What is a ‘must-do’ for when you have visitors?

Take a walk around Hoan Kiem Lake on the weekend! The sense of community is beautiful.  I love seeing kids play games in the streets, people have photoshoots in the open, and the feeling of walking in the middle of a road that is usually very congested.  It’s effortless and free but will leave you with a warm feeling in your heart.

8. How would you spend an average Sunday in Hanoi?

I get up and go for a walk or run around my neighbourhood, I usually end up at Hoan Kiem Lake.  I might get brunch with friends at one of the awesome breakfast places in the city.  If I am lazy, then I will just get a Bánh mì trứng (Egg Sandwich) from the woman next to my apartment.  I have a group of friends that try to do something unique to Hanoi every Sunday.  We usually try a new street food, catch a yoga class, or visit a park.

9. Favourite food (and location) Hanoi has to offer?

Hard to pick just one! My favourite Bia Hơi is at 2 Đường Thành.  Their ribs and tomato sauce with tofu are amazing.  My all-time favourite bún chả place is at 1 Hàng Mành.  Make sure you go to the one with seating upstairs, there are two fake ones next door!

10. Is the pho better in Saigon or Hanoi?  

Hard to say! I am loyal to my city, so I will say Hanoi.  We get a winter here so there is actually a reason to eat soup.  However, I do love all the fresh vegetables served in Saigon.