Vietnam's capital, Hanoi, has a lot to offer eager tourists: great food, vibrant nightlife, and rich culture.
But it's also one of the most polluted cities in the world, with smog and burning trash making the air quality one of the worst in the world.
Air pollution is measured by the level of PM2.5 particulates (particulate matter with a diameter of 2.5 micrometers or less suspended in the air). These particles are so small that they can be absorbed into the bloodstream when inhaled.
According to the Air Quality Index, which measures small particles in the air that are harmful, PM2.5 concentrations in Hanoi are 24.3 times higher than the World Health Organization's annual PM2.5 guideline value.
But why is Hanoi so polluted? The capital is a hub of industrial production and heavy traffic, both of which contribute to high levels of smog. Hanoi also burns garbage, which releases more particles into the air.
In Hanoi, people are being urged to wear masks when going out and close their windows to prevent poor quality air from entering indoors. It is also recommended to run an air purifier indoors and avoid exercising outdoors.
Despite high pollution levels, tourists continue to flock to Hanoi. Vietnam Investment Review reported that up to 160,000 tourists flocked to Hanoi on January 16, an increase of 17% year-on-year.
Of these, the number of foreign tourists was approximately 28,400, an increase of 67%, and the number of domestic tourists was approximately 132,000, an increase of 10%. Total revenue from tourism was approximately $24.7 million, reflecting a 26% increase over the previous year.
It's easy to see why Hanoi is so popular. This vibrant city has been named Asia's best vacation destination city for the third consecutive year by the 2024 World Travel Awards.
Founded 1000 years ago, Hanoi has everything from great shopping to museums and beaches. Halong Bay is just a short trip from this bustling city.
Hanoi's Old Quarter is a must-see for travelers, with cafes, restaurants, and hundreds of market stalls.
Each street has its own specialties. For example, Hang Gai Street is a popular spot for custom-made silk clothing, while Lan Ong Street is the home of traditional Chinese medicine.
Halong Bay, two hours from Hanoi, is probably Vietnam's most famous beach.
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this beautiful cove is home to white sand beaches, gorgeous caves, and rock formations. While it is certainly possible to take a day trip from Hanoi, you will get the most out of your trip by spending a day or two in this beautiful place.
